Massage Therapy

Massage therapy (including myotherapy) is the practice of kneading or manipulating a person’s muscles and other soft tissue in order to improve their well-being or health. It is a form of manual therapy that includes holding, moving, and applying pressure to the muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia.

The term ‘massage therapy’ is used to describe a wide variety of techniques that vary in the manner in which touch, pressure and the intensity of the treatment is applied.

Benefits of Massage

One of the immediate benefits of massage is a feeling of deep relaxation and calm. This occurs because massage prompts the release of endorphins – the brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that produce feelings of well-being.

Levels of stress hormones, such as adrenalin, cortisol and norepinephrine, are also reduced. Studies indicate that high levels of stress hormones impair the immune system.

Some of the physical benefits of massage and myotherapy include:

Reduced muscle tension
Improved circulation
Stimulation of the lymphatic system
Reduction of stress hormones
Relaxation
Increased joint mobility and flexibility
Improved skin tone
Improved recovery of soft tissue injuries
Heightened mental alertness
Reduced anxiety and depression.

What to expect at your first Myotherapy appointment

For your first appointment, bring any medical test results (such as x-ray films) that relate to your condition. The myotherapist will ask questions about your symptoms and your medical history, including prior illness and surgery.

The myotherapist will examine and treat the affected joints, muscles and any associated myofascial pain patterns. The myotherapist may refer you to other healthcare professionals for further diagnosis or treatment, depending on your condition.

Remedial Massage

A targeted treatment for pain and injury. Your consultation will consist of an initial assessment, massage therapy, mobilization. stretching and reassessment.

Swedish Massage

Also referred to as "Therapeutic Massage". This is a relaxation massage and a whole-body treatment. Therapeutic massage also helps circulate blood flow, relieve mental stress, and reduce muscle pain and tension.

Sports Massage

Pre-event or post-event treatment. A targeted treatment designed to enhance performance, reduce the likelihood of injury and aid recovery.

Sports massage is specifically tailored to different sports and sporting injuries. It is not a relaxing form of massage and can often be quite strenuous. It works by stretching tight muscles, stimulating inactive muscles and improving the condition of the soft tissue The aim of sports massage is to reduce the stress and tension that can build up in the soft tissues of the body during exercise.

This can:

Increase endurance
Improve performance
Reduce the chance of injury
Reduce recovery time after an injury

Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy massage is a treatment that can be a targeted remedial treatment, or simply for relaxation purposes.

The consultation is designed to address the specific needs of the client and takes into consideration her current and past pregnancy medical history. The treatment will then be adapted accordingly.