What is Massage Therapy

Swedish massage is what many people think about when massage is mentioned. It uses long flowing strokes, deep kneading, surface friction, light tapping and joint movement.

Massage Therapists use Swedish massage, along with many other techniques such as Neuromuscular Facilitation (NMT), Trigger Point Therapy, Fascial release, and Lymph Drainage, in addition to therapeutic exercise, stretching and postural education in an average massage therapy visit.

What does Massage Therapy do?

Massage Therapy acts directly upon the muscular, nervous and circulatory systems to rehabilitate physical injuries and improve health. Research studies have found massage therapy to positively affect:

  • circulation
  • muscular system
  • nervous system
  • immune system
  • pain perception
  • pyschological state
  • respiratory function
  • Types of massage therapy provided

    What should I expect from my Massage Therapy visit?

    Your average appointment will begin with you filling out a medical case history to establish your current lvel of health and ensure there are no contraindications to massage therapy. Next comes an interview/assessment by your massage therapist so he/she can better understand your individual health needs. Following the assessment, the therapist will leave the room, allowing you to disrobe and get into position on the massage table (covered by a sheet). The therapist will re-enter the room and do the hands-on part of the treatment. When he/she is finished, he/she will leave the room again, allowing you the privacy to dress. Once you are dressed, the therapist will meet with you again to discuss the treatment and assign necessary stretches/strengthening exercises.

    Results of 1999 Survey:

  • 98 per cent of patients believe massage therapy is an effective treatment for their medical conditions
  • 95 per cent of patients say massage therapy improved their condition
  • 49 per cent of patients say massage therapy allowed them to stop or reduce drug or other medical treatments

  • Information courtesy of the Massage Therapists' Association of BC, www.massagetherapy.bc.ca