Massage is the manipulation of superficial and deep layers of muscle, connective tissue and joints, using a variety of techniques. Massage therapy restores tissue health by bringing oxygen and other nutrients to body tissues while flushing metabolic waste.
Scope of Practice
“The practice of massage therapy is the assessment of soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain.” (Massage Therapy Act, 1991)
Massage therapy has the ability to:
- Enhance function
- Aid in the natural healthy process
- Relieve muscle and joint tension
- Promote tissue health
- Reduce pain
- Increase flexibility and mobility
- Improve circulation
- Restore balance
- Increase lymphatic drainage
- Relieve anxiety
Massage therapy can benefit:
- Postural imbalances (scoliosis, forward head carriage, hyperkyphosis/lordosis)
- Inflammatory conditions (tendinitis, bursitis, arthritis)
- Acute and chronic pain
- Stress-related conditions
- Degenerative changes and joint pathologies (DDD, SIJD, TMJD, facet compression, disc herniation)
- Muscle strains and spasms, and ligament sprains (whiplash)
- Headaches, migraines, sinusitis
- Repetitive strain injuries and compression syndromes (carpal tunnel, piriformis, thoracic outlet syndromes)
- Circulatory and respiratory problems (hypertension, Raynaud’s, diabetes, fibromyalgia, bronchitis)
- Post-injury and pre/post surgical rehabilitation
- Pre/post sport event
- Adhesions, contractures, scar tissue, myofascial trigger points