Registered Massage Therapy

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Massage Therapy | Prenatal Massage | Infant/Child Massage

The Benefits of Massage Therapy

Registered Massage Therapists specialize in treating and providing relief, pain management and rehabilitation for a wide range of conditions related to soft tissue and joint dysfunction.

Massage therapy addresses a variety of health conditions, the most prevalent being stress-related tension, which experts believe accounts for 80-90% of disease.

Massage therapy has many physiological effects, including:

• Increased circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs
• Stimulation of the lymph system, helping the body to release stored toxins and act as a natural defense
• Relaxing and softening injured and overused muscles
• Reduced spasms and cramping
• Increased joint flexibility
• The releasing of endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller
• Reduction of post-surgery adhesions and edema, and reduction and realignment of post-healing scar tissue 
• Improved range of motion and decreased low back pain and discomfort
• Relief for arthritic pain, tendonitis and migraine sufferers
• Potential improvement of digestive disorders

Benefits of massage therapy for active clients include:

• Decreased lactic acid build up and prevention
• Relief from repetitive strain injuries
• Advice/recommendations from your massage therapist for modified sports training due to injury
• Treatment for both affected and unaffected sites of injuries
  i.e. right leg injury causes stress on left leg from compensating 

How Often Should I Receive a Massage?

For your personal health and well-being, a massage once a month is ideal. For athletic and active individuals, more frequent visits are recommended. Injuries or problem areas should be addressed on an individual basis.

Prenatal Massage Therapy

Prenatal sessions are available using a pregnancy cushion, which allows for a comfortable face down position. As well, the more traditional side lying position may be used if needed.

Massage during pregnancy is therapeutic bodywork focusing on the special needs of the mother-to-be, which in turn nurtures the new life that grows within her. The soothing essence of massage allows pregnant moms to unwind and feel serene, healthy and comforted during a period of added physical and emotional stress. Take time for yourself during your pregnancy…it can be emotionally uplifting!

Benefits of prenatal massage include:

• Emotional support and nurturing touch
• Promotes relaxation and deep breathing 
• Increased comfort levels and sense of well-being
• Stress relief on weight-bearing joints, such as ankles, lower back and pelvis
• Relief for neck and back pain caused by muscle imbalances and weaknesses
• Assistance in maintaining proper posture
• Preparing the muscles used during childbirth
• Reduced swelling in hands and feet
• Reduced sciatic pain
• Fewer calf cramps
• Relief from headaches and sinus congestion
• A more restful sleep and less insomnia
• Stabilization of hormone levels by lessening anxiety

Infant and Child Massage Therapy

Infant and child massage is relatively new to the Western world. It helps improve immune systems, stimulate relaxation and promotes better sleeping patterns. Infant massage can also help reduce colic and congestion, and relieve constipation and gas. Overall, infant massage touches are soft and non-mechanical.

During each session techniques are shown to the parents for at home daily use. Not only is incorporating a few minutes of massage during bath time simple and effective, it is a great way to strengthen the bond between parent and child.

Benefits of infant and child massage include:

• Less discomfort - massage releases both oxytocin and endorphins and therefore can assist in relieving discomfort from teething, congestion, colic and emotional stress
• Improved brain-to-body communication – stimulation of the skin speeds the process of myelination of the brain and nervous system therefore enhancing neural-cell firing
• Enhanced neurological development - massage relieves stress and provides relaxation for an infant which is an important component for optimum learning
• Better sleep - some infants and children sleep for longer periods following massage and appear to have longer periods of deep sleep
• Strengthening of the immune system
• Increased oxygen and nutrient flow to the cells
• Relief from constipation