THERAPEUTIC ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE

Orthopedic /Rehabilitative massage is a combination of several massage and manual therapy techniques integrated to create functional improvement in soft tissue conditions and injuries.  Although a simplification, orthopedic massage can be described as a cross between massage and physical therapy. “Massage therapy” because of the palpation and mobilization of soft tissue through manual effort and “Physical therapy” because the client plays an active role during treatment by providing feed back, participating in active stretches or engaging in resisted exercises.

In order to be effective, the orthopedic massage therapist must understand the condition presented, discern which anatomical structures are involved and what protocols are required to create functional and measurable improvements. Although the specific techniques used can vary from therapist to therapist, there exist three elements common to orthopedic massage treatments: performing an assessment, matching the physiological effects of the techniques with the physiology of the injury, and providing treatment from a goal oriented approach.

In this modality, the techniques used, facilitate neurological function through “Muscle Energy Techniques (MET’s)” that include Reciprocal Inhibition & Contract-Relax methodology. The goal of the Orthopedic Massage is to induce a change in the structure and function of the neuro-musculo-skeletal soft tissue to promote healing. I work on clients, assisting with soft tissue rehabilitation with Medical issues like Whiplash, Tendinitis, Frozen Shoulder & Rotator cuff Injuries, Sciatica, Piriformis Syndrome, Iliotibial Band Syndrome, Hamstrings and Quadriceps strain, Plantar Fasciitis, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Tennis/Golfer’s elbow, Tension Headaches etc.

Some of the important clinical effects of the Orthopedic Massage are:

• Increases new tissue cells to promote repair & healing of injuries
• Promotes fluid exchange of blood, lymph and synovial fluids to increase nutrition & oxygenation of the tissue
• Normalizes the function of muscles by reducing hypertonicity in the muscles & strengthening weak muscles
• Establishes normal neurologic function in the soft tissue
• Mobilizes restricted joints and promotes healthy cartilage.