What is massage therapy?

Massage therapy refers to a variety of techniques used by a licensed massage therapist to relieve stress, alleviate pain, and support the healing of specific musculoskeletal conditions.

A massage therapist typically uses their hands to apply pressure and manipulate muscles and other soft tissues of the body; some techniques include the use of elbows, hand tools, and electronic devices.

What are the benefits of massage therapy?

Massage therapy has been shown to relieve stress and promote relaxation by decreasing brain activity, reducing cortisol levels, and stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering a “rest and digest” response.

Massage therapy can also address injuries, repetitive use syndromes, and other musculoskeletal concerns by increasing local circulation, breaking up muscle fiber adhesions, and supporting tissue healing and cell regeneration.

Some of the conditions that the experienced massage therapists at Ultra Comprehensive Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy can address include:

• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Shoulder pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Sports injuries
• Osteoarthritis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Migraines
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Insomnia

When used in combination with other techniques, such as physical therapy or sports medicine, massage therapy can help restore mobility and improve physical function for maximum pain relief and recovery.

Which types of massage therapy are available?

The licensed massage therapists at Ultra Comprehensive Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy have expertise in a variety of techniques, including:

Swedish massage
Swedish massage is a traditional style of massage upon which many modern techniques are based. It is characterized by mild to moderate pressure, flowing strokes, kneading, and percussive tapping or shaking. Swedish massage is most often used to relieve stress and create a state of mental and physical relaxation.

Deep tissue massage
Deep tissue massage builds on the foundation of Swedish massage but uses deeper pressure. In a deep tissue massage, your therapist may use elbows or hand tools and sustained pressure or deep friction to address muscle and joint conditions.

Sports massage
Sports massage incorporates Swedish and deep tissue techniques with the goal of preparing your body for an athletic event or exercise. Sports massage is also effective as part of post-event recovery, or to promote healing after a sports-related injury.

The massage therapists at Ultra Comprehensive Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy are also qualified to perform myofascial release, trigger point therapy, prenatal massage, and many other massage modalities.

To relieve stress or manage your pain, call Ultra Comprehensive Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy to schedule a massage therapy appointment today, or book online.