License No. MT005142
Massage plays an important role to take athletes to the next level. We use a combination of techniques which include Postural Analysis, Neuromuscular Therapy, Myofasial Release, and rehab. I don’t need to tell you how much symmetry plays a vital role for aesthetics if you’re a bodybuilder, figure/fitness competitor; on the athletic side it also plays an important role for gaining speed, strength, agility and flexibility with less injury!
In Postural Analysis the client stands facing various directions. This test is done without shoes to eliminate any postural corrections made by the shoes. We look for any asymmetries (e.g., shoulder depression, elevation, head tilt, and/or knock knees) of the subject’s anterior (front), lateral (side), and posterior (back) aspects of the body. This gives us the foundation of the treatment plan.
Neuromuscular Therapy is the utilization of static pressure on specific myofascial points to relieve pain. This technique manipulates the soft tissue of the body (muscles, tendons and connective tissue) to balance the central nervous system. In a healthy individual, nerves transmit impulses (which are responsible for every movement, function and thought) to the body very slowly. Injury, trauma, postural distortion or stress cause nerves to speed up their transmission, inhibiting equilibrium and making the body vulnerable to pain and dysfunction. It is therefore necessary to stabilize low levels of neurological activity to maintain normal function and overall health.
Neuromuscular Therapy will help improve:
- Lack of blood supply to soft tissues which causes hypersensitivity to touch
- Highly irritated points in muscles which refer pain to other parts of the body
- Pressure on a nerve by soft tissue, cartilage or bone
- Imbalance of the muscular system resulting from the movement of the body off the longitudinal and horizontal planes
- Imbalance of the musculoskeletal system resulting in faulty movement patterns (i.e., poor lifting habits, bad mechanics in a golf swing of tennis stroke, computer keyboarding)
Myofascial Release is a very effective hands-on technique that provides sustained pressure into myofascial restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. Fascia is very densely woven, covering and interpenetrating every muscle, bone, nerve, artery and vein as well as all of our internal organs including the heart, lungs, brain and spinal cord. It is actually one structure that exists from head to foot without interruption. Fascia also plays an important role in the support of our bodies, since it surrounds and attaches to all structures. These structures would not be able to provide the stability without the constant pull of the fascial system. It has the ability to stretch and move without restriction. When we experience physical trauma, scarring, or inflammation, however, the fascia loses its pliability. It becomes tight, restricted and a source of tension to the rest of the body. Trauma, such as a fall, whiplash, surgery or just habitual poor posture over time and repetitive stress injuries has a cumulative effect. The changes they cause in the fascial system influence comfort and the functioning of our body. The fascia can exert excessive pressure producing pain or restriction of motion. They affect our flexibility and stability, and are a determining factor in our ability to withstand stress and strain.
The use of Myofascial Release allows us to look at each client as a unique individual. Our one-on-one therapy sessions are hands-on treatments during which we use a multitude of Myofascial Release techniques and movement therapy. We promote independence through education in proper body mechanics and movement, through the enhancement of strength, flexibility, and postural and movement awareness.
