Hide/Show Banner - Font SizeFont SizeFont SizeFont Size - Refer a Friend - Email Us

Types of Massage

There are a variety of different styles, types and techniques of massage utilized by massage therapists. I've provided a description of the techniques I utilize in my practice.

Craniosacral Therapy


Craniosacral Therapy (also called CST) is an alternative medicine therapy used by osteopaths, massage therapists, naturopaths, chiropractors, and occupational therapists. A craniosacral therapy session involves the therapist placing their hands on the patient, which they say allows them to tune into what they call the craniosacral system. The practitioner gently works with the spine and the skull and its cranial sutures, diaphragms, and fascia. In this way, the restrictions of nerve passages are said to be eased, the movement of cerebrospinal fluid through the spinal cord is said to be optimized, and misaligned bones are said to be restored to their proper position. Craniosacral therapists use the therapy to treat mental stress, neck and back pain, migraines, TMJ Syndrome, and for chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia.[2]


Therapeutic Massage

Therapeutic Massage may utilize a variety of bodywork modalities to aide the body into releasing the soft tissue more readily.
With Therapeutic Massage a firmer pressure is generally used. This may be incorporated into a full body massage or time spent working on specific areas for maximum release.

Myofascial Release


Myofascial release is a form of soft tissue therapy used to treat somatic dysfunction and accompanying pain and restriction of motion. It uses the skin and fascia as a handle or lever to create new options for enhanced function and movement of every structure of the body. It can remove the straitjacket of pressure caused by restricted fascia, eliminating symptoms (pain, spasms, etc.)


Prenatal Massage


Prenatal massage is similar to massage during non-pregnancy in terms of the goals (relaxation, pain relief, increased circulation & mobility, etc.). However, due to the changes undergone during pregnancy, modification are made. To accommodate swollen tender breasts and a growing belly, special pillows, positioning and techniques are utilized to ensure comfort for both the expecting mother and baby. With increasing weight, a changing center of gravity and the many other changes associated with pregnancy, prenatal massage can help provide relief and a sense of well being that is much deserved.
(1)

Esalen Massage

Esalen Massage is first and foremost moving the muscle tissue and the body in a way that creates an appropriate level of trust between client and therapist. It is known for its healing and nurturing touch. It combines long strokes, gentle rocking and stretching, and sculpting of deep musculature. It stimulates muscle movement,which increases fluid movement and in turn tones and elasticises the muscle tissue. However, Esalen Massage goes beyond the physical result of bodywork by focusing on the energy exchange and psychological well-being.


Muscle Release Technique

Muscle Release Technique is a unique injury therapy that combines compression, extension, movement, and breath to give the therapist a tool to provide relief of pain. With the MRT scar tissue is broken up, the muscles lengthened, muscle memory is restored, and relief from pain often starts immediately.

Energy Work: Healing Touch and Quantum Touch

See - Perceive - Behold....There is an energetic exchange going on all the time. Energy is an "ocean of motion". Energy follows thought - attention follows intention. With energy therapy we are working with the Life Force Energy of the body also known as "chi" in Chinese to promote optimal wellness. The gift of touch is used with intention to influence the human energy system, specifically the energy field that surrounds the body, and the energy centers that control flow from the energy field to the physcial body. These non-invasive techniques employ the hands to clear, energize, and balance the human and environmental energy fields, thus affecting physical, emotional,mental, and spiritual health. It is based on a heart-centered, caring relationship. The ultimate goal is restoring balance and harmony in the energy system, placing the client in a position to self-heal.

[1] Content Copyright ProfessionalPlanets.com LLC dba MassagePlanet.com
[2] Content Obtained from Wikipedia.com.