To say a massage is a 'sports massage', or 'trigger point therapy', or 'Swedish massage' doesn't encapsulate the full range of techniques a massage can offer. A well-developed treatment plan will likely include a combination of techniques. Massage is not a rigid system, rather it flows and develops according to the needs of the client and the observations of the practitioner. Techniques I use may include:
Swedish Massage - effluerage and petrissage
Neuromuscular Techniques (Trigger Point Therapy)
Deep frictions
Connective-tissue Massage
Myofascial Release
Soft-tissue Release
Post-isometric relaxation (PIR) and reciprocal inhibition (RI)
Joint mobilisations
Below are the main classification of massages that I offer. If you aren't sure which is best for you, or whether your condition can be treated with massage, call me so we can discuss your needs.
Remedial Massage Therapy
When massage is applied as a treatment for a specific condition, usually identified by the client, a picture of the condition is built through a consultation, postural and range of movement assessments and hands-on evaluation. A treatment plan will be formulated according to what is found and may include a variety of techniques. This type of treatment is usually quite active as the client will be asked to participate in assessments and techniques. However, the treatment plan will be adapted to take into account any movement restrictions the client may have.
Maintenance Massage
Maintenance massages are focussed on keeping the body in good condition throughout, so it's best able to cope with whatever challenges the individual's life brings, whether that is occupational - such as sitting at a desk for long hours, from a sport, stress, daily habits like carrying a child or, most likely, a combination of these. Areas of tension are treated early so small problems don't build in to big problems. Taking into account the client's lifestyle, the therapist will tailor the massage to the individual and may focus on different areas and use a variety of techniques according to what arises during the treatment.
Relaxation Massage
Relaxation massage is exactly that. The whole body will be treated with mostly Swedish techniques, as these are most suitable for relaxation. The pressure can be adjusted according to individual preference, but techniques that treat specific muscles, and those that require active participation from the client will be avoided in order that the client will achieve the greatest level of relaxation.
Pre and Post-event Massage
Massage can help athletes (amateur and professional) to prepare for sporting events in the days, hours and minutes running up to an event. It can also help with recovery post-event both immediately after the event and in the days following. As well as regular treatments with sports people, I am also available to accompany individuals and teams to sporting events. Please contact me to discuss your particular requirements.