Helping Hands Massage Therapy

Deep tissue is designed to alleviate the deep muscles of the body. After a proper warmup I will work as deeply as the muscles will allow. This technique can be uncomfortable at times so verbal feedback throughout the session is necessary. The goal of this technique is to break up pain patterns and restore range of motion.

Myofascial Release is a subtle tecnique that uses the warmth of the hands with some gentle movements. MFR is light in pressure to alleviate areas of tension, high sensitivity and/or painful areas. While some sessions can focus on this technique exclusively, it is best incorporated with other therapies.

Pregnancy massage uses bolsters and body cushions to assist in body positioning that will ensure comfort throughout the massage and pregnancy. Techniques vary depending on the needs of the mother. There are some precautions that must be used from one trimester to another.

Infant massage will involve the parents or those who are caring for the baby. I will demonstrate and instruct the care-giver in the techniques used to massage the infant-child. Techniques for young children vary greatly from those used with adults.

Sports massage is usually 20-45 minutes in length and is used pre-, mid- and post event. The time and style of massage varies between segments of the event. Unlike relaxation or therapeutic, this technique focuses on muscle stimulation and preparation for the demands of athletic performance.

This technique is a gentle massage that uses smooth flowing strokes (effluerage) as well as light kneading (petrissage) to improve circulation and relaxation. A favorite of many clients, this is the technique most commonly offered in spa and salon settings.

Trigger point therapy is used to release muscle tension in very specific points of the body. It is incorporated in the use of NMT and Deep tissue techniques by focusing on a cluster of tight muscle fibers. A trigger point is a spot that upon activation elicites a sensation (pain, numbness, tingling etc.) into itself or into another area (called a referral pattern).