Massage and Body WorkTechniques
Deep Tissue-  Massage applied to the deeper, core layers of the body often using the elbow as well as the usual thumb, finger and fist  pressure.  Greater awareness is often needed to go into the deeper tissues without hurting the client. Deep tissue work helps with chronic pain and injury rehabilitation. Myofascial Release- There are many methods of myofascial release.  It is used to evaluate an treat restrictions in the body's connective tissue (muscles and fascia).  Fascia is a complex supportive web throughout the body that affects all components of the muscloskeletal, nervous and visceral systems.  Myofascial release can be used to treat chronic pain, injuries, general aches and pains. Neuromuscular Therapy (sometimes referred to as trigger point therapy)- Uses advanced concepts in triggerpoint therapy to return the body to normal neuromuscular balance.  Has both European and American origins. In Europe, Stanley Leif started the work in the 1930's and passed it on to his cousin Boris Chaitow, his son Peter Lief and Leon Chaitow.  The American version comes from Raymond Nimmo, DC, Janet Travel and later Paul St. John and Judith Walker Delaney. Shiatsu-A Japanese healing modality similar to Chinese acupressure utilizing a Japanese healing philosophy of ki (life energy). Shiatsu literally means "finger pressure". This form of acupressure is a combination of many different techniques including pressing, hooking, sweeping, shaking, rotating, grasping, vibrating, patting, plucking, lifting, pinching, rolling, brushing, and sometimes walking barefoot on the patients back, legs, and feet. It is applied with comfortable pressure to all parts of the body with thumbs, palms, and elbows where the body is gently stretched to loosen joints and muscles. Shiatsu treatments promote good health by strengthening the body and stimulating its self-healing abilities. It is traditionally performed on the floor with the client comfortably lying on a futon with both client and patient dressed comfortably in a kimono (Japanese robe). Shiatsu is considered a special kind of dance between giver and receiver where a unique rapport develops between the practitioner and client because shiatsu relies on the simple but powerful experience of touch to awaken the client's own self-healing powers. This "touch communication" between practitioner and client is foundational to all healing methods. When the independence of ki is restored to a free flowing state throughout the body, it touches the physical, emotional, and spiritual sensitivity of the person, and the natural healing flow is restored. Soft Tissue Release- Stuart Taws- Sports injury technique developed by Stuart Taws while working with the British Athletic Team.   Uses techniques to break up chronic scar tissue adhesions and followed up with specific stretches that involve 3 different levels. Strain Counter Strain- Developed by Lawrence Jones, DO.  The work focuses on joint dysfunction and treatment of such problems by passively putting the joint into its position of greatest comfort.  The malfunctioning muscle is shortened by placing a mild strain (stretching) to its antagonists.  His tenderpoints are located in the deeper muscle, tendon and ligament structures. Sports Massage- Massage applied to serious athletes for training, injury prevention, rehab, pre and post event strategies.  You have to know what you are doing to work with athletes as their life depends on their bodies.  Working too deep before an event may leave them weak and unable to  compete.  They work themselves to exhaustion and do it all over the next day. Swedish Massage- A collection of techniques designed for relaxation, using massage oils to reduce friction.  Many of the therapeutic effects include increased circulation, increased flexibility, removal of lactic acid and toxins, relaxes nervous system, and stimulates the skin.  Techniques can be modified to treat injuries and muscular related problems. Thai Massage- Often known as Yoga for Lazy people! It is a combination of gentle rocking, stretching and movements to loosen joints and muscles.  It is usually done on the floor with the client laying on mats.