Remedial Massage Therapy

What is Remedial Massage?

Remedial massage, also known as clinical or therapeutic massage, is a specialized form of massage therapy aimed at addressing specific health issues. It goes beyond relaxation and stress relief, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of physical conditions. Remedial massage therapists are highly trained professionals who use their knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathology to assess and treat soft tissue problems in the body.

Key Benefits of Remedial Massage:

Pain Relief: One of the primary benefits of remedial massage is pain relief. It is effective in reducing or eliminating pain associated with conditions like back pain, muscle strains, headaches, and sports injuries. By targeting specific muscles and trigger points, therapists can alleviate discomfort and tension.
Improved Range of Motion: Remedial massage can enhance flexibility and range of motion by breaking down scar tissue and adhesions that restrict movement. This is particularly valuable for individuals recovering from injuries or dealing with chronic pain conditions.
Enhanced Posture: Poor posture can lead to various musculoskeletal issues. Remedial massage helps correct imbalances and postural problems by targeting the muscles responsible for maintaining proper alignment.
Relaxation and Stress Reduction: While the primary focus is on addressing physical issues, remedial massage can also induce a sense of relaxation and mental well-being. Reduced stress and anxiety are often natural byproducts of the therapy.
Injury Prevention: Regular remedial massage can help prevent injuries by identifying and addressing potential problem areas before they escalate into more severe issues.

If you feel like you could benefit from a Remedial Massage, book with Physio Group South West today.

Techniques Used in Remedial Massage:

Remedial massage therapists employ a range of techniques and modalities to achieve the best results for their clients. Some of the most commonly used techniques include:

Deep Tissue Massage: This involves applying firm pressure to reach deep layers of muscles, making it effective for addressing chronic pain and tension.
Trigger Point Therapy: Therapists locate and release trigger points, which are tight knots within muscles that can cause referred pain.
Myofascial Release: This technique focuses on releasing tension in the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs.
Stretching: Passive and active stretching techniques are often used to improve flexibility and range of motion.
Cross-Fiber Friction: This technique involves applying pressure across the grain of the muscle fibers to break down scar tissue and adhesions.
Joint Mobilization: In some cases, therapists may use joint mobilization techniques to improve joint function.
Cupping: Cupping is a therapy involving cups placed on the skin with suction. It’s used to alleviate muscle tension, pain, and promote blood flow.

What you Need to Know to Make the Most out of your Massage

Schedule Strategically

You’ll be most comfortable during your massage if you eat lightly before you come or wait at least 1.5 hours after a meal and stay well hydrated.

If you have had to do any strenuous activity, make sure you have time to shower prior. Post Massage, you’ll probably want a warm shower to remove any excess oil before heading out to any events.

If you are diabetic and take insulin, you should schedule your appointment in between dosages and be aware that massage may lower blood glucose levels; so, check your levels before your massage and have some sugar or honey on hand encase you need it.

Relax and Breathe

During a Massage, the nervous system slips into a state of calm (your Parasympathetic Nervous System) and chemical changes start occurring, increasing “feel good” hormones, and decreasing “stress” hormones. When we are able to sustain these conditions, this state of relaxation can improve our sleep and breed recovery. Our breath is one of the most effective tools to relieve muscular tension – so take the time to breathe deeply and relax during your massage – your body will thank you for it.

Be Honest with your Therapist

There are many adjustments your therapist can make to individualise your treatment plan and enhance the quality of your massage. On your first appointment, you will be asked to complete a Client History Form. If your therapist knows any medication you are on, your current or past symptoms and your treatment preferences, they can make adjustments to their techniques and the way you are supported during your massage – elevating your experience.

Your therapist will ask if you would like the pressure firmer or softer and would love to be kept updated if this preference changes throughout your Massage. There may be instances where firm or deep pressure is not suitable, certain medication and physical conditions can alter your sensitivity to pain and you can end up leaving with more damage from when you arrived – your therapist will work with you on this.

Know when Massage isn’t a Suitable Treatment

Normally, Massage is a safe and appropriate therapy however if you have recently undergone major surgery, have any infectious illnesses or skin conditions, are in your first trimester of pregnancy, or have any undiagnosed swelling and inflammation, you would want to post pone your massage, or get clearance from your GP first.

If you have recently began taking medication or are in the midst of adjusting your dosage, consider waiting until your body has adjusted before getting a massage.

Finally, Consider Booking Regular Appointments

The more regular and comfortable you are with Massage Therapy, the greater ease you’ll have to both slide into that Parasympathetic System and the better your ability to maintain that state throughout your day-to-day. If you find you are restricted by time or cost, consider investing in some Massage Oil or a Foam Roller and make self-massage a regular habit. While it might require more effort your end, you will still reap some amazing benefits for very little cost.

If you feel like you could benefit from a Remedial Massage, book with Physio Group South West today.

Collie

Australind