About Sarah
Sarah's Bodywork Techniques
Benefits of Massage
Appointment Scheduling & Directions
Practitioner Referrals
Especially for Musicians
Swedish Massage
Especially popular for its stress-relieving benefits, Swedish massage is a versatile form of bodywork that is tailored to fit client needs. The depth and rhythm of pressure varies depending on the client's personal preference; massage techniques include long, gliding strokes, kneading of the muscles, friction and percussive movements. Swedish massage is both relaxing and rejuvenating; immediate benefits include stress reduction, increased circulation, improved mobility and pain relief.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage uses firmer pressure in order to reach the underlying layers of muscle tissue and work them more specifically. It can be particularly beneficial for rehabilitation from injury or chronic tension. Consumer Reports has rated deep tissue massage as one of the most effective treatments for back pain and headaches.
Repetitive Use Injury Therapy
When muscles are overused, the repetitive motion can cause micro-tears in the muscle fibers, thereby encouraging scar tissue formation and reduced flexibility. These tight, shortened muscles not only lose strength and endurance, but can also impinge on underlying nerves and cause a ripple effect of muscle weakness and pain. The Muscle Release Technique (MRT) combines stretches and exhalation with specific massage techniques to reverse the effects of overuse, improve range of motion, release chronic muscle tension and relieve pain. MRT has been used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, thoracic outlet syndrome, neck and shoulder pain, golf and tennis elbow, frozen shoulder, lower back pain, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and TMJ disorders.
Medical Massage for Cervical Strain/Sprain
Useful in treating whiplash injuries as well as neck and shoulder tension, medical massage is an effective way to break up scar tissue and adhesion in the musclces. And, since muscle tension can pull bones out of alignment, the client has a better chance of retaining an adjustment when s/he receives deep tissue or medical massage in conjunction with chiropractic treatment.
Myofascial & Trigger Point Therapy
Fascia is the connective tissue that covers all muscles and organs, thereby forming an 'internal sweater' of the body. When fascia becomes tight or twisted, it can cement posture into a distorted position and contribute to widespread aching as well as fatigue, localized discomfort, trigger point pain referral patterns and dysfunction of nerves and organs. Myofascial bodywork is used to restore structural integrity, relieve pain, release emotional trauma trapped in muscle memory, restore function and improve range of motion. Conditions helped by this treatment include TMJ disorders, postural distortion, acute and chronic pain, neurological and movement dysfunctions, and headaches.
Intraoral Massage
Intraoral massage is an effective treatment for clients who suffer from TMJ dysfunction, trigger point-related headaches or excess jaw tension. Latex-free gloves are worn while working inside the mouth to release the muscles and fascia involved in mastication and jaw clenching. This modality is used in conjunction with massage techniques for the face, scalp and neck muscles that affect jaw alignment and tension. Common factors in TMJ dysfunction that can be helped by massage include poor posture, whiplash injuries, chronic tension or overuse, bruxism, stress, and muscle imbalance caused by occupational habits.
Reiki
Japanese for "universal life energy", Reiki is a soft-touch (or no-touch) technique used to channel energy for blockage release and healing purposes. This gentle and relaxing modality can be incorporated into a massage session to relieve pain, discomfort, swelling, insomnia, stress, digestive disorders, menstrual cramps and other conditions.
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