Remedial Massage Techniques
Remedial massage uses a multidiscipline of techniques and massage modalities in combination specific to a musculoskeletal dysfunction. It typically will involve the use of numerous massage techniques including gliding, rubbing, kneading, frictions, traction, static stretching, compression techniques, and tissue movement through holding, shaking and rocking. Massage is applied to the body via fingers, knuckles, palm, forearm and elbow by working from the most superficial to deep layers of tissue within the body.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue Massage describes a type of massage therapy that works on the deeper muscles and connective tissue of the body to release chronic tension and adhesions. The technique is usually localized to a particular area of tension and is mostly done at the deepest level the client can tolerate.
Deep tissue massage helps correct inappropriate patterns of movement by returning deep, chronically tense muscles to a relaxed state. It is also used to break up and prevent adhesions in the soft tissues of the body. By breaking the adhesions in the tissues that hold muscle fibres together, new stronger bonds can be formed that allow for more movement between individual fibres. This increases the ease and degree that a joint is able to move, improves circulation and can reduce pain by reducing the irritation of nerves.
Some conditions that deep tissue massage treats especially well include muscle adhesions, whiplash, lower back and neck pain, sciatica and circulatory problems. Deep tissue massage can be used generally with other massage techniques for stress, anxiety, back pain, tension headaches, depression, poor circulation, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome and menstrual cramps.
Myofascial Release
‘Myo’ refers to muscle, while ‘fascia’ refers to the continuous elastic web of connective tissue that is evident through the entire body. The muscles and fascia work together to support the body while facilitating movement.
Myofascial Release is a non-oil technique involving the application of stretches and pressure to the fascia and muscles. The slow controlled movements, whether applied to specific myofascial locations or over broad contact areas, help relieve tension and pain by releasing and lengthening the fascia allowing the muscles to return to their correct position, length and function.
Myofascial Release is especially effective for reducing chronic pain, increasing range of motion and releasing postural restrictions. Other benefits include improving flexibility, breathing and balance.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger Points refer to areas of hypersensitivity associated with a taut band of skeletal muscle that is painful on compression, palpation and/or stretch, and that usually gives rise to a typical referred pain pattern.
Treatment consists of massage therapy, soft tissue manipulation and stretching. A firm digital pressure is applied to specific points that cause pain and restricted movement. In many cases, these specific points will be located in places different to where the client actually feels the pain. Trigger Point Therapy is especially good for repetitive use injuries or for conditions associated with trauma or poor posture.
This therapy is also known as Trigger Point Release, Triggerpoint Myotherapy or Acupressure.
