Neuromuscular Therapy

Neuromuscular Therapy is a program of recovery from acute and chronic pain syndromes by utilizing specific massage therapy, including the pressure of trigger points, to eliminate the causes of pain patterns. Neuromuscular massage incorporates various techniques such as compression, friction and skin rolling. This approach brings about balance between the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system. It enhances the function of joints, muscles, and movement, and it releases endorphins, the body’s own natural pain killers.

Massage Cupping

Massage Cupping TM is a remarkable massage modality. It prepares the tissue in a more profound way than with just hands on massage alone. Using a cup on the skin and creating a suction effect can prepare the tissue for manual massage therapy.

This incredible technique has an unclear origination dating back thousands of years and used by many cultures for healing. The first cups were animal horns with suction created with the mouth. Glass cups were then created, which are still used today. A flaming cotton ball infused with alcohol is placed inside the glass cup to create a vacuum effect. A manual cup set made of plastic in which

air is drawn out manually with a gun on the cup valve. Cupping historically had many medicinal applications. Today, however, cupping is typically used in combination with acupuncture. Cupping has now merged with massage therapy as a way to manipulate soft tissue. I have found Massage Cupping TM a great adjunct to massage therapy integrating it into neuromuscular therapy and myofacsial release work.

Massage Cupping TM works simply by placing a cup on the skin then creating a suction effect hence lifting the skin creating negative pressure or vacuum effect. This suction lifts the skin, fascia, connective tissue, muscle and all fluid within the tissue. When the cup is or “parked” on the skin, this allows the cup to focus on a specific neuromuscular trigger point. It releases the muscle in a fraction of the time. Either used parked on the body or gliding over soft tissue to enhance blood flow to the area. It expedites the release of tight muscle tissue. This allows the therapist to perform deeper manual work. All this while less discomfort to the client as compared to deep work alone. I invite you to check out www.MassageCupping.com for more information.

Myofascial Release Therapy

All muscles, arteries, bones, organs, etc. are held together by a Saran wrap kind of tissue called fascia. Developed in the late 1960’s by John Barnes, Myofascial Release works by the manipulation of the fascia that connects and surrounds muscles. Because the fascia is body-wide, a tension or trauma in one part of the body can affect another part. The fascia responds to the trained touch to release the adverse effects of inflammation, tensions and trauma .

Sports Massage

This special form of massage is typically used before, during, and after athletic events to prepare the athlete for peak performance, to drain away fatigue, to relieve swelling, to reduce muscle tension, to promote flexibility and to prevent injuries. Depending on the needs of the athlete, a variety of techniques are used including classic Swedish strokes, cross-fiber friction, pressure-point work, and joint mobilization.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff necks, low back tightness, and sore shoulders. Some of the same strokes are used as classic massage therapy, but the movement is slower and the pressure is deeper and concentrated on areas of tension and pain. Deep tissue massage works by physically breaking down these adhesions to relieve pain and restore normal movement.

See The Difference

Watch Stacie below working on David O’Meara of www.OneMileRunner.com before and after he completed one mile in 4:46 in Gainesville, FL at the O’Connell Center during the Jimmy Carnes Invitational.