Orthopedic Massage

ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE

Orthopedic massage uses a wide variety of techniques for the most effective treatment for a chronic condition or recent injury. Some of the techniques are [u]myofascial release, neuromuscular reeducation, structure balancing, scar tissue realignment and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching[/u] in an order that effects the greatest improvement.

Almost 90% of aches and pains are due to imbalances, weakness and/or restrictions in soft-tissue (muscle, fascia, ligaments and/or tendons). The cause is usually an injury (new or old), years of poor posture, physical or emotional stress. These lead to fascial adhesions along with the contraction of muscles as a way for the body to compensate for a dysfunction.

There is no single massage modality that can effectively treat all of the diverse types of pain and injury. Therefore, the orthopedic massage therapist must have expertise, insight and ability in order to match the appropriate technique to the underlying pathology of that particular condition.

Another component that sets orthopedic massage apart from standard massage therapy is that with the diversity of injury/pain conditions, the [u]practitioner can not rigidly adhere to any one set of techniques or specific protocols.[/u] Each client presents a unique set of conditions and that will mean a protocol tailored to that client.

The third and most important component of orthopedic massage is the rehabilitation phase to effectively progress through the stages of soft tissue healing. The therapist will work with the client in performing specific isometric contractions of the affected muscles. The therapist will [u]suggest stretches and exercises[/u] that can be done at home in order for the client to be actively involved in their own recovery.