What is Massage?

Massage is one of the oldest, simplest forms of therapy and is a system of stroking, pressing and kneading different areas of the body to relieve pain, relax, stimulate, and tone the body. Massage does much more than create a pleasant sensation on the skin, it also works on the soft tissues (the muscles, tendons, and ligaments) to improve muscle tone. Although it largely affects those muscles just under the skin, its benefits may also reach the deeper layers of muscle and possibly even the organs themselves.

Benefits of Massage

• Increases circulation allowing the body to pump oxygen and nutrients into the tissues and vital organs.
• Stimulates the flow of lymph, the body's natural defence system, against toxic invaders.
• Increased circulation of blood and lymph systems improves the condition of the body’s skin.
• Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles.
• Reduces spasms, cramping and increases joint flexibility.
• Reduces recovery time, helps prepare for strenuous workouts and eliminates subsequent pains of the athlete at any level.
• Releases endorphins (the body's natural painkiller)and is being used in chronic illness, injury and recovery from surgery to control and relieve pain.
• Reduces post-surgery adhesions and oedema and can be used to reduce and realign scar tissue after healing has occurred.
• Improves range of motion and decreases discomfort for lower back pain.
• Relieves pain for migraine sufferers and decreases the need for medication.
• Provides exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reduces shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion.

Types of Massage

Swedish/Relaxation
A classical European massage technique of the muscles characterised by smooth, flowing therapeutic stroking and kneading of muscle tissue to promote general relaxation, stress relief, improve circulation and relieve muscle tension. Generally includes feet, hand, scalp and face massage.

Remedial/Sports Massage
Remedial Massage is very effective in dealing with muscular problems, loss of muscle tone and adhesions and removing physical tension in the muscles. Incorporating advanced massage techniques, it helps to speed up circulation and eliminate toxins, which can cause pain and stiffness. Combines different massage techniques to enhance sports performance and recuperation and is an effective component of any training program. Stretching of the muscles may be a key part of the treatment. Deep tissue techniques may also be used. This type of massage I useful for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions such as:

• Back, neck, shoulder pain
• Headaches, migraines
• Sports injury recovery and management

Lymphatic Drainage Massage
An advanced therapy in which the practitioner uses a range of specialized and gentle rhythmic pumping techniques to move the skin in the direction of the lymph flow. This stimulates the lymphatic vessels that carry substances vital to the defence of the body, and removes waste products. Lymph drainage is used primarily to promote the optimal functioning of the lymphatic vessels that lead to the circulatory system. Lymph drainage techniques facilitate the removal of metabolic wastes, excess water, toxins, bacteria, large protein molecules, and foreign substances from tissue via the initial lymph vessels and the venous capillaries.

Chinese Massage (Tui Na)
Treatment includes the use massage techniques to the soft tissue (muscles and tendons) of the body and acupressure techniques to directly affect the flow of Qi (healing energy). By restoring a balance of energy in the body, Tui Na helps to restore your natural self-healing abilities. Chinese cupping, Moxabustion and liniments may also be used to enhance the treatment.

Cupping is an ancient Chinese method of causing local congestion. A partial vacuum is created in cups placed on the skin either by means of heat or suction. This draws up the underlying tissues. When the cup is left in place on the skin for a few minutes, blood stasis is formed and localized healing takes place. Cupping has also been found to affect the body up to four inches into the tissues, causing tissues to release toxins, activate the lymphatic system, clear colon blockages, help activate and clear the veins, arteries and capillaries, activate the skin, clear stretch marks and improve varicose veins.

Moxabustion is a process whereby moxa - a dried herb, usually the species mugwort - is burned either directly on the skin, or just above the skin, over acupuncture points. It is believed that when lit, moxa burns slowly and provides penetrating heat that can enter the meridians to influence Qi and blood flow. Cupping and Moxabustion is also often used as part of an acupuncture treatment.

How often should I have a massage?

This varies with each individual; however, I recommended monthly massages for general maintenance. Regular massage can have the effect of strengthening and toning the entire body mechanism, and so help to prevent unnecessary strains and injuries that might otherwise occur due to excess tension and any resulting structural weaknesses. Massage can stimulate or calm the nervous system-depending upon what is required by the individual-and thus help reduce fatigue, leaving the receiver with a feeling of replenished energy.

Contraindications /Precautions

Contraindications include conditions involving fractures, phlebitis, open wounds, and lesions, fever, contagious or infectious diseases ( including any cold or flu no matter how mild it may seem), recent operations or acute injuries, neuritis, skin diseases, cancer, High BP and when not recommended by your doctor.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT CONTACT
Suncoast Natural Therapies Clinic
Shop 1, 56 Landsborough Pde
Golden Beach, Caloundra Qld 4551
Phone 5492 3305
Email info@sntclinic.com.au