Everyone has different needs. Therefore, treatments are customized to address individual concerns. Some modalities listed below may be incorporated into your session:

TRIGGER POINT THERAPY:
Addresses primary complaint.  For example, when a client presents with shoulder pain, upper extremity protocol will be used as the primary examination. Prolonged pain can cause dysfunctions within the affected area, so adjoining muscles are noted due to the compensatory patterns in movement. Deep, sustained pressure is applied to the sensitive points in muscles to help release muscular pain and spasm.

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE:
Safe and effective technique that involves gently applying sustained pressure over deep or superficial myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion.  What is myofascial tissue? It's a thin, strong fibrous connective tissue that extends throughout the entire body like tight-knit webbing. It provides support and protection to muscles, organs and bones.

SWEDISH MASSAGE:
A general systemic massage of soft tissues of the body to induce a state of deep relaxation. Do not underestimate the power of a gentle massage!

MANUAL LYMPH DRANAGE:
MLD is specifically focused on the lymph vessels to help the flow of lymphatic fluid. It is a light, skin-stretching massage that helps promote the movement of lymphatic fluid. It should not be confused with a traditional massage.

The main lymph nodes are opened first by using gentle, circular strokes in preparation to receive and filter lymph fluid more effectively. Then, gentle skin stretching strokes are applied to the arms and legs to help “pump” the fluid towards the main lymph nodes from which the fluid filters through. The lymph fluid is then transported back into the bloodstream via the lymph vessels. Lymph only moves in one direction, toward the heart, and is eventually released via urination, defecation or sweating.

What is the lymphatic system?

The lymphatic system includes your spleen, thymus, lymph nodes and lymph channels, as well as your tonsils and adenoids. It is part of your immune system that protects against infection and disease, so it is crucial to keeping
your body healthy. Lymph fluid contains a variety of substances, including proteins, salts, glucose, fats, water, white blood cells and cellular debris.

The lymphatic system also builds immunity by making special white blood cells (called lymphocytes), Pac-man like cells that attack and destroy foreign bacteria and viruses, even abnormal cells like cancer cells. The lymph fluid moves through the lymph nodes-found in the neck, armpits, abdomen, chest, pelvis, groin and tops of legs- which act as as filters, attacking any bacteria or viruses found in the lymph fluid, which is then is pumped back to the heart. 

Who benefits from a manual lymphatic drainage treatment?  Everyone! If you're feeling sick or fighting to get back on track, manually moving the lymph can help clear out toxins, viruses and bacteria.  In addition, athletes, surgical patients, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue sufferers greatly benefit as well.  

For more information about manual lymphatic drainage, go to www.massagetherapy.com, Massage Therapy Articles; The Benefits of Lymphatic Massage.