While there are some similarities between Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue, they differ in pressure, techniques, intended use, and areas of focus.
Swedish massage is gentler than deep tissue massage and better suited for people interested in relaxation and tension relief.
Deep Tissue Massage uses many of the same stroking and kneading movements as Swedish massage, but there’s far more pressure.
In order to reach the deep muscle layers, a therapist will employ special techniques with fingertips, knuckles, palms, fists, forearms, and maybe elbows to reach and stretch that deep tissue.
Myofascial (my-o-FASH-e-ul) release is a manual therapy technique often used in massage. This technique focuses on pain believed to arise from myofascial tissues - the tough membranes that wrap, connect and support your muscles, organs, blood, and lymphatic vessels.
Myofascial pain differs from other types of pain because it originates in trigger points which we often referred to as "knots". When fascial restrictions prevent deep tissue massage from working, cupping is an effective way to address imbalances in the body.
Gua Sha is an ancient Asian healing method in which a smooth-edged tool is used to stroke the skin with some pressure. “Gua” meaning to scape or rub the skin a number of times; “Sha” being a reddish, raised rash known as petechiae (puh-TEE-kee-uh).
Gradually, adding more pressure to the strokes as you are comfortable with, intentionally raising Sha. You may have some discolouration of your skin, typically lasting 2-4 days. If there is no blood stasis, the petechiae will not be visible and the skin will only turn pink. You could also be sore and tender for a short while after your treatment.
Gua Sha is often used when an individual is experiencing musculoskeletal pain. Typically applied to back, neck, shoulders, buttock and limbs. It is also extremely effective in treating the common cold, bronchitis, asthma as well as any chronic disorder involving pain and stagnation of Qi (life energy) or blood stasis.
Typically, Gua Sha is considered safe. However, it is contraindicated if you are on blood thinners, pregnant, have advanced diabetes, severe anemia, leukaemia, or thrombocytopenia.
Patients generally report feeling light, energized and have a increased range of motion .
Pregnancy massage is performed in a side-lying position supported by many pillows. It is a safe and natural way to reduce stress and discomfort throughout the pregnancy, decreasing swelling, backaches, leg cramps and neck pain.
Postpartum massage is beneficial in helping relax muscles, increase circulation and lower stress hormones bringing both physical and emotional relief.
Dry cupping is an ancient form of alternative medicine in which cups whether glass, plastic or silicone are attached to the skin by suction, targeting the tissues and muscles below. These cups are kept on from 5 to 15 minutes depending on the severity of the problem and the patients tolerance.
Cupping enhances circulation by drawing fresh, oxygenated blood into the tissues. This process helps to replace cells and stimulate the lymphatic system in eliminating toxins and aiding in the healing process. In addition to releasing tension and fascial restrictions, it increases range of motion and helps to relieve pain.
Cupping is also beneficial in the treatment of :
Discolouration from cupping is common, ranging from very minimal to the appearance of a bruise. Generally lasting a few days to a week. The more fascial restrictions the darker the colour. Some may or may not have discolouration after cupping.
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