Massage Therapy

Massages have been used therapeutically for thousands of years, with styles and techniques evolving throughout the centuries. Today, there are more than 100 varieties of massage being used in countries all around the world, helping to relieve back pain and muscle stiffness in millions of patients.

Although chiropractic care is not the same as massage, an increasing number of chiropractors are offering massage therapy to help alleviate pain and rehabilitate injuries in patients suffering from problems with their musculoskeletal system. Most qualified and experienced chiropractors agree that while massage therapy can be beneficial as a standalone treatment, it is far superior when performed alongside conventional chiropractic adjustments.

What Is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy refers to the manual manipulation of the soft tissues of the body, including the skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. There are many different techniques, with some of the most popular beings:

Prenatal Massage

Geared to the comfort of the expectant mom, this massage provides relief from stress, back pain, aching shoulders, sore feet, and other symptoms that may exist during pregnancy. The perfect gift for a mom-to-be! Please note: This massage is safe only after the first trimester of pregnancy.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

This massage relieves swelling that can occur from medical treatments or illnesses that block the Lymphatic system. It involves a gentle touch that manipulates specific areas of the body to help lymph move to an area with working lymph vessels. With a doctor's approval, this massage works well after surgery or for those with inflammation. Anyone can benefit from this massage and it is great for the immune system, relief of sinus pressure and congestion.

Signature Massage

Using a combination of therapeutic and relaxation techniques, this massage eases muscle tension and promotes relaxation. Choose a full body massage or concentration on specific areas, with pressure adjusted to your preference. This massage may include warm cupping, moist heat therapy and essential oils are available upon request.

Swedish Massage

This light, gentle massage includes flowing strokes that promote relaxation. Benefits include decreased stress and anxiety, improved circulation, flush-out of toxins, improved sleep, and headache relief. This massage includes moist heat therapy and essential oils are available upon request.

Thai Foot Massage

This massage applies pressure to specific reflex points of the soles of the feet. Using fingers, knuckles and a traditional Thai massage stick, it includes stretching and massaging from the knee down. This massage provides tension release in the foot and calf muscles and is helpful for those with Plantar Fasciitis and is able to be performed while wearing loose fitting pants.

Therapeutic Massage

This massage is best for those with injuries or chronic pain. Using a variety of techniques, this massage helps to release contracted muscles and adhesions, restoring flexibility and range of motion. Medium to deep pressure is used, geared to each individual's tolerance.

Benefits Of Massage Therapy

Massage has been shown to have potential benefits in almost every system in the body and is increasingly accepted by general practitioners as a highly successful alternative therapy. In addition to treating the effects of musculoskeletal problems such as back, neck and shoulder pain, massage therapy has also been used to effectively treat:

• Carpal tunnel and connective tissue injuries

• Circulatory problems including Edema

• Headaches and migraines

• Neuropathy

• Pain (acute and chronic)

• Repetitive strain injuries

• Sports injuries

• Sprains and strains

• Stress and anxiety

• Tennis elbow
  
  

Am I A Good Candidate For Massage Therapy?

While massage is a non-invasive therapy that is suitable for a wide variety of patients, there are some people for whom it may not be appropriate. These include those who have:

• Bleeding disorders or who are taking blood thinners

• Burns

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

• Had recent surgery

• Fractured bones

• Severe osteoporosis

• Severe thrombocytopenia

• Wounds that are still healing

As such, before you can be approved for chiropractic massage therapy, you will be invited to attend a comprehensive consultation appointment with your practitioner. This meeting will be an opportunity to assess your general health and wellbeing as well as your musculoskeletal problems and will enable your chiropractor to decide if you are a suitable candidate for massage therapy.

Your chiropractor will then recommend a schedule of massage appointments, adjustment appointments or a combination of the two. This is just a guideline, and your exact program of treatment will depend on how well you respond to each of the appointments.

If you would like to know more about the benefits of chiropractic massage therapy, please contact our offices where our friendly, experienced team are waiting for your call.