Services

The following are the different modalities that I practice with a description and explanation of each type of massage.

[ Swedish | Deep Tissue | Shiatsu | Medical | Sports | Chair ]
See information on specific massage techniques here.




Swedish Massage

The term "Swedish Massage" refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart. Swedish massage was developed in the 1700's by a Swedish doctor named Per Henrik Ling. The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It reduces stress, both emotional and physical, and is suggested in a regular program for stress management.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue Massage is a massage technique that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. It aims to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas, either following or going across the fibers of the muscles, tendons and fascia. Deep tissue massage usually focuses on more specific areas and may cause some soreness during or right after the massage. When muscles are stressed, they block oxygen and nutrients, leading to inflammation that builds up toxins in the muscle tissue. A deep-tissue massage helps loosen muscle tissues, release toxins from muscles and get blood and oxygen circulating properly. Because many toxins are released, it's important to drink plenty of water after a deep-tissue session to help eliminate these toxins from the body.

Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a Japanese word meaning "finger pressure". A Shiatsu treatment incorporates the use not only of finger pressure, but also thumbs, palms, knees, forearms, elbows and feet. Pressure is applied to the areas of energy lines (meridians) to promote good health by stimulating the body's energy flow (Qi). The session begins with gentle stretching and manipulation techniques to help stimulate the movement of energy and to relax the muscles. Pressure can be applied to both wide areas as well as precise points and varied according to the body's needs. Shiatsu is a deeply relaxing experience and regular Shiatsu sessions help to prevent the build-up of stress in our daily lives. It can be performed on the traditional floor mat or on a western-style massage table.

Medical Massage

Medical Massage is manual therapy applied to the specific area and the primary pathology of the client's chief complaint. This type of massage is delivered to an anatomical region based on soft tissue and joint findings and after assessment procedures, such as muscle tests and palpation. Medical Massage therapy is not limited to myofascial tissues, but includes the joint complex and highly specialized joint mobilization techniques, such as stretching.

Sports Massage

Sports Massage is a special form of massage and is typically used before, during, and after athletic events. The purpose of the massage is to prepare the athlete for peak performance, to drain away fatigue, to relieve swelling, to reduce muscle tension, to promote flexibility and to prevent injuries. The main purpose of sports massage therapy is to help alleviate the stress and tension which builds up in the body's soft tissues during physical activity. The massage will help prepare the athlete for peak performance, to drain away fatigue, to relieve swelling, to reduce muscle tension, to promote flexibility and to help prevent injuries.

Chair Massage

Also called on-site and seated massage, chair massage includes techniques that provide fully-clothed seated massage, bodywork and somatic therapies to clients, usually at an event or in a corporate or business setting. Performed on a specialized massage chair ergonomically designed for proper alignment and comfort.

Staff Photo

Jeff Schoenheit, LMT