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Massage Therapy

What is Massage Therapy?

​Massage therapy is the hands-on manipulation of both superficial and deep muscle and connective tissue with the intent to promote healing, relaxation, as well as enhance overall muscular function of the body. This is achieved through a variety of techniques utilized by the massage therapist.

How does it work?

Massage therapy combines movement, pressure, and depth to relax the various muscle groups and tissues in the body. Using specific manual techniques, the therapist works to achieve goals set in place by a physician or chiropractor. A broad range of techniques may be utilized depending on your personal needs, from light gliding strokes to deep pressure and friction. These movements are designed to assist in the elongation of muscle and fibrous tissue that may be contracted from poor posture, lack of use, overuse, illness, or injury. In addition, such techniques have a beneficial effect on the body as a whole, and frequent sessions with your massage therapist will ensure the best results for your treatment. 

What are the Health Benefits of Massage Therapy?

Decreases Muscle and Joint Pain
Improved Mobility and Range of Motion
Decreased Stress & Irritability
Promotes Relaxation
Improved Sleep
Improved Posture
Reduces Drug Dependency
Improves Endurance
Promotes Balance
Strengthens Immune System
Improved Work Productivity
Improves Body Detoxification
Improves Energy Levels
Injury Prevention
Reduces Likelihood of Chronic Pain
Promotes Movement and Activity
Increase Post workout Recovery
Promotes Blood Circulation

 

What Conditions Successfully Benefit with Massage Therapy?

​A number of medical conditions, from common to severe, can benefit from routine massage therapy:

In addition, it is important that you communicate your needs and goals to the therapist, in order to achieve the best possible treatment.

Neck and Back Pain (Disc, Joint, Nerve Injuries)
Sore Muscles -Fibromyalgia
Sprain/Strains
Arthritic Conditions
Headaches (Migraines/Tension)
Shoulder and Arm Pain
Hip, Knee, and Ankle Pain
Muscle/Fascia Pain
Poor Posture
Auto Accidents (Whiplash)
Sports Injuries
Sciatica
Repetitive Motion Injuries
Plantar Fasciitis
ITB Syndrome
Anxiety/Depression
Pregnancy Discomfort
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Diabetes
Multiple Sclerosis
SCM Syndrome
TMJ
Tennis Elbow
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Work Related Injuries
Spinal Stenosis

 

What are the Different types of Massage?


Swedish Massage

Swedish massage therapy is usually what comes to mind when most people think of massage. The primary goal of a Swedish massage is to relax the entire body. This is accomplished by relaxing muscles with long gliding strokes in the direction of the muscle fibers. Swedish massage is typically used to:

  • Relieve tension from Stress and Chronic Pain (Ex: Fibromyalgia, Diabetes)
  • Increase blood and lymph flow movement
  • Detoxify the body

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is designed to relieve severe tension in the muscle and the connective tissue, known as fascia.  This is accomplished with use of deeper moving or static pressure manual techniques and cross fiber friction. Deep tissue massage is often recommended to:

  • Release deep muscle tension from consistent pain
  • Provide deep pain relief
  • Break up scar tissue
  • Great for the highly active or sedentary occupations

Myofascial Massage

Myofascial release refers to the manual massage technique for stretching the fascia and releasing bonds between fascia, integument, and muscles with the goal of eliminating pain, and increasing range of motion. Myofascial release usually involves applying shear compression or tension in various directions, or by skin rolling. Myofascial Massage is usually used to:

  • Relieve long term chronic issues
  • Reduce muscle pain and adhesion
  • Lengthen tissue rigidity and promote flexibility
  • Great for overuse syndromes
  • Improves poor posture
  • Restores muscle strength

If you have any questions or concerns about the benefits of Massage Therapy and whether it is right for you and your family, Please consult with Jacksonville massage therapy expert Dr. Crosby and he will gladly answer all your questions and give you an honest assessment.