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Swedish massage involves the use of relaxing, long, gliding strokes and kneading and friction techniques on the more superficial layers of the muscles, combined with active and passive movements of the joints. Benefits of Swedish massage include:
- Aids the circulatory and lymphatic systems
- Promotes the release of toxins that can accumulate in our bodies.
- Broadens muscle tissue and fascia
- Helps to rehabilitate weak muscles and improve muscle tone
- Promotes joint flexibility
- Stimulates tissue repair
Deep tissue massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It releases chronic patterns of tension located throughout the body by using slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas, going against the grain of the muscles, tendons, and fascia (connective tissue) to break up scars, adhesions, and fibrous tissue. It may also involve concentrated manipulation of specific areas (trigger points).
Deep tissue massage is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as the neck, lower back, and shoulders. Some of the same strokes are used as with Swedish massage therapy, but the movement is slower and the pressure is deeper and concentrated on areas of tension and pain.
How does deep tissue massage work?
When chronic muscle tension or injury exists, adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) are usually present in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Adhesions can block circulation and cause pain, limited movement, and inflammation. Deep tissue massage works by physically breaking down these adhesions to relieve pain and restore normal movement.
Integrative massage blends many styles of massage, all of which share the goals of achieving and maintaining good physical condition and providing a sense of well-being. Techniques including myofascial release, stretching, and muscle movements are used to help release the body from particular holding patterns that result from our busy lives. For example, rocking or shaking motions may be used while applying pressure to a trigger point to help release tension, heal a troubled area resulting from an injury, and/or alleviate chronic pain resulting from repetitive movements on the job.
Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy, also known as "Trigger Point Therapy," refers to the treatment of myofascial trigger points that are found in muscles and fascia. Myofascial trigger points are painful, tense areas that are found in muscles and can affect muscles and fascia with pain and restriction.
Myofascial trigger point Release is a safe and very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue and trigger restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion.
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