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Myofascial
Release
Myofascial
techniques manipulate the fascia that runs though out all
systems of the body. Fascia is so pervasive that any
restrictions, adhesions or buildup of fascia can create problems
for the musculature. Fascia is gel-like or thixotropic, which
means that with mechanical manipulation, fascia becomes warmer
and more liquid. Without sufficient movement, nutrition and
hydration, fascia stiffens and dries out. Myofascial techniques
take advantage of the thixotropic nature of fascia to
mechanically change the shape and positions of restricted
tissues.
Hot
Stone Massage (LaStone)
Developed in the
Midwest for use in health spas, this technique uses stones that
have been heated. These stones are positioned on the body and
some are gently moved about with light pressure being exerted on
the warm stones.
Russian
Massage
A more intense and stimulating
massage. Follows the lymph flow. Stretches are incorporated
into the massage. May be used for specific areas or as a
full body massage.
Chinese
Therapeutic Massage
Chinese
massage is closely related to acupuncture in its use of the
meridian system and is considered to be effective for a similar
range of health problems. However it should not be seen as a
poor relation to acupuncture. It is an effective and
comprehensive therapy and is regarded alongside herbs, diet, and
qi gong as one of the fundamental arts of Traditional Chinese
Medicine.
Neuromuscular
Massage
The
most effective type of massage therapy for lower back pain is
neuromuscular therapy. Neuromuscular therapy is also called
trigger point myotherapy. Neuromuscular therapy consists of
alternating levels of concentrated pressure on the areas of
muscle spasm. The massage therapy pressure is usually applied
with the fingers, knuckles, or elbow. Muscles that are in spasm
will be painful to the touch. The pain is caused by ischemic
muscle tissue; This in turn creates the following undesirable
process:
~ Because
the muscle is not receiving enough blood, the muscle is also not
receiving enough oxygen
~
The lack of oxygen causes the muscle to produce lactic acid
~
The lactic acid makes the muscle feel sore following physical
activity.
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