With massage, I can physically track how you are overusing your support system and under using your muscles.
Generally as we release one stuck area another emerges. Each area released allows for greater flexibility and less pain. I give exercises to help alleviate or correct the underlying cause of the tightening, shortening, thickening, etc.
My clients say it feels like they have more room to move.
When you watch a runner, especially a speed runner in slow motion, we remark on the fluidity of movement. You see it and
describe what you see. In movement, sports, dance, I see what you are doing which blocks the fluidity of movement. Sometimes it is as simple as changing your shoes.
First treatment: You fill in a case history, we go over all your operations, injuries, car accidents, stress level, family history (heart disease, diabetes, etc.). I look at your posture, gait, range of motion and test restrictions if necessary.
The second half of the assessment takes place once you are on the massage table. I check for restrictions, inflammation, thickening of tissue, chronic muscle tension, edema or how well your lymph system is working. I talk to you about where the restrictions are and we begin to examine how your job, exercise, driving, sleeping, contribute to the chronic tension, injury or pain you are experiencing now.
After the first treatment we discuss a treatment plan and what changes to expect in your progress. I work with people to help them attain greater mobility, decreased pain and a better understanding of how to maintain their own flexibility. I expect clients to do the homework given. I consider our work a partnership. I only work with you for one hour or so, once or twice a week. You need to be doing exercises to help oil your joints and connective tissue. These stay healthy and flexible when we move them. I also give stretches and breathing exercises. The exercises are gentle and easy to do. Both the mobility and stretching exercises can be done almost anywhere. I have created these exercises so you will do them … they will make you feel better and they help you release tension and strain. You come back to a healthier you, faster, the more you are willing to do.
I also offer focused awareness mobility exercises which help to work on gait and posture. It is hard to change something we can’t feel. We are not looking to bring you back to your younger self. We are looking to bring you to a more mobile you … without the pain and stiffness.
When we finish the treatment plan we reassess and decide are we still working on the same things. Are you changing to a maintenance program or do we end our sessions here and you will call me when you need me.
