Therapeutic Massage

Transformative touch therapy

Therapeutic Massage

Revitalize the body and soothe the soul through transformative touch therapy. An intrinsic component of modern integrative medicine, therapeutic massage is increasingly being recognized for its physical and emotional healing properties and effectiveness in treating a wide range of medical conditions — from relieving pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders and other chronic illnesses to reducing stress, relieving insomnia, and improving overall health and wellness.

Therapeutic massage at AHH focuses on manipulating soft tissue — stimulating natural lymphatic drainage and improving lymph flow for maintaining optimal fluid balance and overall immunity. Our licensed massage therapists are trained in several Eastern and Western massage modalities — including Chinese medical massage (Tui Na), acupressure, fire cupping, Swedish massage, myofascial, reflexology, hot stone, deep tissue, and chair massage. After assessing the distinct needs of each individual client, our massage therapists develop highly customized therapeutic treatment programs designed to lower cortisol levels via strategically engaging the parasympathetic nervous system — restoring the body to a calm state for ultimate relaxation and well-being.

The benefits of therapeutic massage are many, improving:

  • Pregnancy labor and delivery outcomes and postpartum recovery
  • Psychological issues, including stress, anxiety, and depression
  • Emotional and neurological disorders
  • Muscle tone and overall flexibility
  • Circulation and immune function
  • General muscle aches and pains
  • Migraines and/or headaches
  • Acute and/or chronic pain
  • High blood pressure
  • Digestive issues
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Chinese Massage (Tui Na)

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Swedish Massage

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Fire Cupping

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Deep Tissue

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Acupressure

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Reflexology

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Hot Stone

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Reiki

Therapeutic Massage

Part of an integrative health approach, therapeutic massage can be an ongoing therapy to heal and prevent illness, injury, and disease. Therapeutic massage has been scientifically proven to provide numerous physiological and psychological health benefits — improving overall health and wellness.

Chinese Medical Massage (Tui Na)

Chinese Medical Massage, or Tui Na (twee-nah) is a therapeutic massage used for a plethora of health conditions. Chinese Medical Massage, Tui Na focuses on the same points and channels as in acupuncture; but with the hands and fingers. Referred to as acupressure in the West, Chinese Medical massage, Tui Na is a method of touch used by the Tui Na therapist to balance the Qi energy, vital areas and the internal organs.

Stimulating the flow of blood and lymph, Chinese medical massage, Tui Na releases blockages that would otherwise cause pain, swelling, toxic buildup and other health symptoms. A form of self-healing therapy, Chinese Medical Massage, Tui Na is beneficial to almost anyone. Chinese Medical massage, Tui Na is effective for musculoskeletal pain, headaches, stress, fatigue, anxiety, depression, insomnia, weakened immune systems, digestive problems, female problems, and fibromyalgia patients.

Acupressure

Developed in Asia over 5,000 years ago, acupressure is the most ancient of healing therapies utilizing the finger tips to stimulate prompt healing within the body. Similar to acupuncture, acupressure uses the same energy points on the body. Acupressure is very beneficial as it can relieve pain and bring the body back into balance. Acupressure’s healing ability promotes stress reduction, improves circulation, relaxes the body and strengthens the immune system. Acupressure can effectively be used to alleviate acute and chronic conditions such as arthritis, headaches, spinal-muscular pain, and sinus complications. Also a preventative therapy, acupressure is good for fatigue as well. Overall, acupressure is an excellent healing therapy for whole well-being—mind, body and spirit.

Swedish Massage

Swedish Massage is bodywork that is specifically designed to relax muscles. Interestingly, it was originally derived from the oldest known form of massage which is Chinese Tui Na. By applying deep pressure to muscles and bones, by rubbing concurrently with the circulation towards the heart, Swedish massage purposefully enhances oxygen flow in blood and helps to rid toxins from the muscles.

Shortening recovery time from injuries like muscle sprains, Swedish Massage helps to flush body tissues of lactic and uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. Aside from increasing circulation to the heart, Swedish massage stretches ligaments and tendon making them more flexible. Swedish massage is also known to stimulate the skin and nervous system to enhance emotional and physical wellbeing.

Myofascial

Myofascial release is a tender mixture of stretches and massage techniques. Derived from the Latin words “myo,”—meaning muscle, and “fascia”—for band; myofascial release therapy releases tension from the fibrous bands of connecting tissue (fascia). Myofascial release therapy aims to free constrictions or blockages in the fascia, thereby alleviating problems with connective tissue scarring or injury.

Myofascial release therapy utilizes gentle, kneading manipulation that softly stretches, softens, lengthens and realigns fascia. Stretches are held for a couple of minutes until a softening or release is felt. These stretches are repeated until the tension is felt no more. A myofascial release session may last up to an hour and can be administered one to three times per week depending on a patient’s condition.

In addition, myofascial release therapy can be used to treat back pain; help persons suffering from frozen shoulder, fibromyalgia, headaches, chronic fatigue syndrome, menstrual problems, incontinence, tennis or golfer’s elbow, shin splints, sprains, rheumatoid arthritis, muscle spasms, whiplash injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome. Furthermore, myofascial release can be administered to children suffering from birth trauma, head injuries, cerebral palsy, and scoliosis as well. Ultimately, myofascial release can restore complete balance back to the body.

Reflexology

Reflexology, an ancient art practiced by early Egyptians. Reflexology is a science founded on the basis that areas of the feet, hands and ears are comprised of zones and reflex areas that correspond to all glands, organs, and bodily systems.

Reflexology is a technique whereby pressure is applied to these areas resulting in stress reduction by using thumb, finger and hand methods. Reflexology restores natural balance and revitalization. Not intended to cure diseases, reflexology is valuable in locating high stress or tension areas in the body. Since 75% of all health problems are linked to stress, reflexology could prove invaluable in this day and age, this therapy can be utilized in encouraging natural healing. 

Hot Stone

Stone massage is a type of body massage that utilizes a series of smooth dense stones varying in temperature from 32–140°F. Hot stone massage is applied to specific body parts to help stiff and sore muscles through the use of heat. Stone massage can also reduce the possibility of chronic or acute physical problems. Typically, stone massage is performed in the same way as a general massage session, except with the use of temperate stones. Many clients convey feelings of rejuvenation and increased energy levels after receiving a hot stone massage.

Typically, stone massage is performed in the same manner of a general massage session, except with the use of temperate stones. Clients who have had a stone massage often convey feelings of rejuvenation and increased energy levels. 

Deep Tissue

Deep tissue massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue and should not be confused with wanting a deep pressure massage. Deep tissue massage is especially designed for chronically tense and contracted areas. When there is chronic muscle tension or injury, there are usually adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Adhesions can block circulation and cause pain, which limits movement, and increases inflammation. Deep tissue massage works by physically breaking down these adhesions to relieve pain and restore normal movement thru slowly increasing pressure to reach the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue.

There is usually some stiffness or pain after a deep tissue massage, but it should subside within a day or so. The massage therapist may recommend applying ice to the area after the massage.

Unlike classic massage therapy, which is used for relaxation, deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as:

  • Chronic pain
  • Limited mobility
  • Recovery from injuries (e.g. sports injuries, falls, whiplash)
  • Repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Postural problems
  • Ostearthritis pain
  • Muscle tension or spasm
Chair

Chair massage focuses on the upper body areas that often cause problems for people who sit at a desk or use a computer keyboard. Chair massage can help prevent or relieve carpal tunnel syndrome, tension headaches, neck pain, and back problems, helping to prevent repetitive injuries. This massage is performed in your normal work attire and requires no oils. Instead of using a table, the massage takes place in a specially designed portable massage chair. Leaning forward in the chair allows you to relax completely with your head resting in a comfy face cradle lined with a disposable cloth cover. Our therapist will bring everything needed, including music. All you need to provide is some quiet space and eager participants. Chair massage typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes, no longer than a coffee break, but is far more effective!

Benefits of Chair Massage

  • Reduce Stress: The overall session is designed to reduce physical as well as mental stress
  • Increase Morale: Chair massage is an effective benefit that shows employees that your company cares about their mental and physical health.
  • Increase Resistance to Illness: Massage can help boost the immune system which helps prevent absenteeism.
  • Decrease Repetitive Stress Symptoms: Problems like carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis are examples of injuries associated with repetitive actions.
  • Increase Range-of-Motion: Range of motion is decreased by chronic tension; massage can reduce tension and tightness, thereby increasing range of motion.
  • Reduce Muscle Soreness: Poor posture and chronic tension lead to soreness and pain.
  • Reduce Anxiety: Sometimes our hectic lives take an emotional toll on our bodies which leads to physical problems.

On-site chair massage is a cost-effective way of enhancing and improving your employees. Job stress and related problems cost companies an estimated $200 billion or more annually, based on information from the American Institute of Stress and the American Psychological Association. A chair massage program demonstrates an employer’s proactive commitment to the health and well being of their employees.

Licensed and professional massage therapists work with clients, employees and guests at business functions, events or offices. Customized chair massage rates are available upon request.