What is massage therapy?
Massage therapy is an ancient technique that’s thousands of years old. There are more than 80 different styles of massage, but all follow the same basic techniques. They combine the use of gentle touch, pressure, and rubbing to ease muscle tension, encourage circulation, and promote relaxation.
What types of massage therapy do you offer?
The team at Woudsma Chiropractic Associates offers a full suite of massage therapy services, including:
Trigger point massage
A trigger point, or muscle knot, is a group of stiff muscles that cannot relax. During trigger point massage, your provider carefully places pressure on trigger points in your back and neck with their hands, fingers, or a foam roller. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your provider may recommend a series of massages.
Cupping
Cupping is an alternative therapy that involves your provider putting a series of special cups across the surface of your skin to create suction. Cupping is a type of deep tissue massage. Your provider may recommend cupping to ease pain and inflammation, or to encourage blood flow and relaxation.
Prenatal massage
Pregnancy takes a toll on your body. Research shows that massage therapy reduces stress hormones and eases muscle tension. Additionally, there’s evidence to suggest that prenatal massage can help combat insomnia, reduce swelling in your hands and feet, and relieve headaches.
Reflexology
Reflexology is similar to massage therapy and involves your provider applying pressure to specific areas on your hands and feet. By placing pressure on these reflex areas, your provider can remove energy blockages and promote healing in specific areas of your body.
Oncology massage
Treatments for cancer like radiation and chemotherapy significantly affect your body. Oncology massage takes these factors into account and modifies techniques to ease pain and discomfort.
Reiki
Reiki is an ancient Japanese practice also known as energy healing. During a Reiki treatment session, your provider uses their palms to transfer universal energy to specific parts of your body. Common Reiki techniques include infusing, centering, clearing, and beaming.
What type of massage therapy is right for me?
The type of massage therapy you’ll most benefit from depends on several factors, including your health history and goals for treatment. Following a thorough exam and discussion of your symptoms, your Woudsma Chiropractic Associates provider recommends a treatment plan that aligns with your individual needs.
If you live with chronic pain or need to ease muscle tension, massage therapy can provide relief and improve your overall quality of life. Make an appointment today by calling or clicking the online booking tool.
