massage techniques
I use a variety of techniques to create purposeful treatments with optimal results
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Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is one of the most popular and widely recognized forms of massage therapy. It gained popularity across Europe and North America in the early 19th Century for its therapeutic effects and is a modern standard for massage in clinical and wellness settings. The technique emphasizes long, flowing strokes, kneading, friction, and tapping, aimed at improving circulation, reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation.
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Myofascial Release
Myofascial release (MFR) is a therapeutic technique focused on alleviating restrictions in and around fascia — the strong connective tissue surrounding every muscle, bone, ligament and organ in the body. This technique involves applying sustained gentle, steady pressure over an area that feels restricted, stuck or tight. It aims to reduce pain and improve range of motion.
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Orthorpedic massage
Orthopedic massage is a specialized form of massage therapy with a medical focus. It’s most commonly used to treat specific musculoskeletal pain conditions, acute and long term injury recovery, post op healing and repetitive strain injuries. It combines techniques from massage therapy, physical therapy and sports therapy to assess and address soft tissue conditions.
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DNM
Dermoneuromodulation (DNM) is an innovative approach to manual therapy. This method leverages what science knows about the relationship between the brain, muscles and nervous system to help clients resolve pain, regain function and feel better longer. This method is particularly effective for tunnel syndromes but has a wide variety of applications. It involves gentle techniques such as body positioning to reduce tension, skin stretching/gathering and soft slow movements/holds in areas experiencing chronic or nagging nerve pain to restore nerve health and function.
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Acupressure
Acupressure is a massage technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and practiced for thousands of years as a method of promoting health and well-being. Similar to acupuncture —but without needles — this technique uses finger pressure on specific points (known as acupoints) which have healing properties intended to balance the muscle, organ and energy systems of the body in accordance with Chinese medicine principles. As people increasingly seek holistic, alternative medical treatments acupressure has gained popularity for its effects and benefits.
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Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese therapeutic technique that’s been practiced for thousands of years. This technique involves applying pressure to specific points along the body with fingers, thumbs, elbows and palms. Rooted in ancient eastern medicine, shiatsu aims to balance the body's energy flow, or "ki," to promote overall health and well-being.
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Tui Na
Tui Na (pronounced "twee nah") is an ancient form of Chinese medical massage. It is a crucial component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) alongside acupuncture, herbal medicine and qi gong. The name "Tui Na" translates to "push and grasp," reflecting the therapeutic techniques employed. This holistic approach to massage aims to balance the body's energy, known as “qi”.
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Thai Massage
Thai massage is a traditional healing practice with a dynamic, movement-based nature. It combines acupressure, assisted yoga postures and stretching to alleviate tension, improve range of motion and facilitate the smooth flow of energy throughout the body. Originating over 2,500 years ago in Thailand, it is rooted in Ayurveda and TCM. The practitioner uses hands, forearms, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure and move the body through various stretches.
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Trauma Informed Care
Trauma-informed massage therapy is a holistic approach to providing care. It focuses on creating a safe, trustworthy, professional and collaborative environment. Clients are encouraged to be involved in their care, self-advocate and connect with their bodies. This can look like me asking about treatment preferences, checking in during the session, respecting the client’s boundaries for areas to be worked with or avoided and offering options during treatment so that the client can contribute to course of care during the session. Draping, treatment and communication are done with the utmost respect, professionalism and care regardless of whether a client has disclosed a history of trauma.