There are a wide variety of massage techniques. Based on your needs and the goals you have for your session, I may use any one or a combination of massage techniques. The massage modality definitions below provide a brief explanation.
Hendrickson Method
Hendrickson Method is an advanced system of massage and manual therapy that combines a remarkable new method of massage called wave mobilization® with joint mobilization and muscle energy technique. It is profoundly relaxing to receive, effortless to perform, and an efficient and effective way to treat acute and chronic pain while promoting optimum health.
Hendrickson Method is unique in that it simultaneously treats joints, the nervous system and soft tissue, providing long-term benefits far beyond what can be realized through conventional massage. Hendrickson Method is suitable therapy for most orthopedic conditions, including low back and neck pain, hip degeneration, and rotator cuff injuries. It goes beyond just temporarily alleviating symptoms to help the body achieve optimum function. Rehabilitating and relaxing at the same time
Hendrickson Method combines the rehabilitative benefits of manual therapy with the relaxing effects of massage. Everyone from infants to the elderly can enjoy receiving a gentle session that provides pain-relief and functional rehabilitation. This effective therapy is a pleasure to receive and can be done while clients are fully clothed and without the use of oil.
Hendrickson Method is perfect for pregnant women in all stages of pregnancy.
Swedish
Swedish massage utilizes long, smooth strokes, kneading and other movements focused on superficial layers of muscle using massage oil. Swedish massage is very gentle and relaxing. If you've never had massage before, this is a good one to try first.
DEEP TISSUE
Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue.Deep tissue is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff necks, low back tightness and sore shoulders. Some of the same strokes are used in Swedish massage but less oil is used and the movement is slower and the pressure is deeper and focused on areas of tension and pain.
How does deep tissue massage work?
When there is chronic tension or injury, there is usually adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Adhesions can block circulation, cause pain, limited movement and inflammation. Deep tissue massage works by physically breaking down these adhesions to relieve pain and restore normal movement. To do this the therapist often uses direct deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscle.
Will deep tissue massage hurt?
Many of my clients have experienced painful deep tissue massage with other therapists. This is unfortunate. I believe that is because the therapist didn't listen to their clients or the clients didn't feel safe enough to communicate what they were feeling. I monitor my work carefully, asking clients to tell me when they are feeling pain or soreness outside their comfort range. There is no need for a client to feel extreme pain for this technique to be effective. In fact, the muscles begin to seize up and tighten when too much pain is felt and the benefits of the massage are lost.
There is usually some stiffness or pain after a deep tissue massage but it should subside in a day or so. On occasion I may recommend applying ice to the area after the massage.
CranioSacral Therapy
Craniosacral therapy works to balance the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid in order to restore optimum functioning to the central nervous system and ultimately the entire body. The practitioner uses gentle compressions to realign bones and soft tissue thereby allowing the cerebrospinal fluid to flow freely. While these therapies can be used to resolve specific maladies such as headaches, neck and back pain, or balance problems, they also are useful in freeing accumulated stress and are extremely relaxing. Clients often experience such a deep level of relaxation, they will ask for these techniques to be included in their sessions.
Craniosacral can be added to any modality.
Lymphatic Massage
This massage incorporates comfortable range of motion of each joint and light strokes that encourage the lymph to increase its flow. It can assist in helping the immune system do its housekeeping so it can better protect your body against pollutants and diseases.
Hot Stone Massage
A hot stone massage is similar to a traditional massage, but in addition to my hands, I also use hot stones. The gliding of the heated, oiled stones along the body creates a relaxing sensation while simultaneously warming the joints, tissues, increasing circulation, and promoting release of toxins. Hot stones are also placed on and beneath particular body regions to enhance these effects. Hot stones have been used for centuries in different cultures worldwide as a means of healing. While receiving a hot stone massage be prepared to experience the sensation of warm water poured down your bones, floating in a warm ocean, lying on hot sand or taking a transcendent journey.
Compassionate Touch Comfort Massage for Seniors
Touch has the power to promote healing, relieve pain and comfort those living with the effects of aging, disease or disability.
Compassionate Touch is a hands-on complementary approach for elders living independently or in eldercare, hospice and palliative care. More than a set of techniques and skills, it is a special way of relating and touching that helps bring true change to the lives of people for whom caring touch is just a memory. Compassionate Touch combines one-on-one focused touch and sensitive massage with specialized communication skills to help enhance quality of life for those in later life stages.
I work with individuals in their homes, Long term care facilities,Hospice and palliative care, Alzheimer's care settings, and hospitals.
Other modalities available:
Aroma Therapy
Seated Chair
Special Needs
Grief Massage
Elder Massage
People With Cancer
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