Deep Tissue Massage
This is often a general description that applies most specifically to myofascial release but sometimes encompasses neuromuscular therapy. Deep tissue massage is a practice that utilizes a deeper broad pressure to slowly sink in and gently lengthen, soften and normalize restricted areas restoring health and vitality.
Myofascial Release
A technique that focuses on the muscles as well as the surrounding connective tissue (fascia). Many factors such as stress, diet, dehydration, trauma, lack of exercise, postural habits or over exertion can contribute to congestion, tightness and shortening of the muscles and fascia. This impairs their normal function causing pain and/or restriction. Myofascial release uses deeper sustained pressure and slow strokes to melt and elongate the muscle and fascia normalizing circulation, eliminating pain and restriction, restoring life, health and vitality to the area.
Sports Massage
Combines many massage techniques and stretching to treat the athlete and their specific needs for their events. Therapists will work within the athlete’s training and performance schedule: maintenance, pre-event, post event, injury rehabilitation and recovery.
Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) & Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation
Methods of stretching used by many top athletes. Helps the body repair itself and prepare for daily activity by improving circulation and increasing the elasticity of muscles and fascia, improving performance and helping to protect the muscles and joints from injury.
Hot Stone Massage
Smooth stones heated in water are incorporated into the massage strokes. The heat of the stones helps to soften the fascia and relieve tension. Hot stone massage can be used for relaxation or to release chronic tension comfortably.
Orthopedic Testing
Specific manual tests done with the client to isolate the muscles and conditions most likely causing their pain. This helps the therapist target the massage session for the greatest benefit.
Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)
MLD is a gentle, rhythmical technique that cleanses the body, helping to rid it of excess fluid and waste at a cellular level. It is used clinically in the treatment of lymphedema (swelling of a limb due to fluid build-up resulting from damage to or inadequacy of the lymphatic system).
Pregnancy/Prenatal Massage
Uses specific strokes and positions to address the needs of a pregnant woman. Massage can help a pregnant woman adjust to the changes and added stress that her body will go through during her pregnancy. Massage can also help prepare a woman for labor by easing chronic tension in muscles and teaching the expectant mother how to relax and focus on her body.
Seated Chair Massage
Often called Chair Massage it is performed on a fully clothed client in a special massage chair. Chair massage usually focuses on the back, neck, arms and hands. Sessions usually last 10-15 minutes and can be offered on site at corporations and special events such as parties, showers, and conferences. The Massage Therapy Group offers complimentary chair massage locally for several nonprofit fundraising events.
Aromatherapy
Using volatile liquid plant materials, known as essential oils, on the skin or inhaling the vapors for therapeutic affect. The aromatic compounds from plants affect a person’s mood or health. The client is left feeling deeply relaxed or energized, depending on which oil is used.
Swedish Massage
The classic Relaxation Massage! Swedish massage uses a system of long, gentle strokes, kneading and friction techniques to ease tension, increase range of motion, improve circulation, and boost the immune system. Swedish massage is used for relaxation and to reduce stress.
