Massages are traditionally associated with relaxation and high end health spas, and while that is one area they are used in, it certainly isn’t the only one. Massage therapy has been used by some cultures across the world for thousands of years as an alternative form of medicine, and nowadays is frequently used to treat sports injuries, muscle strains and joint pain, amongst other things. Active Care Health Services Inc. provides a range of professional alternative medical treatments and has been serving the community of Thornhill for several years. Some of the services we offer include physiotherapy, chiropractic, acupuncture and massage therapy.
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy is the term given to a range of techniques whereby a patient’s skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments are pressed and manipulated by the therapist. The majority of the time these massages are done using the hands and fingers, but certain massage techniques may require the use of forearms or elbows. The intensity (which is how hard the skin and muscles are pressed) will vary depending on the type of massage being done and its intended goals. Some of the most common types of massages include:
Swedish Massage
This is without doubt one of the most popular forms of massage therapy throughout North America and is designed to help relax your muscles and release tension. Oil is typically used for this type of massage and it combines long strokes in the same direction as the flow of blood, with circular motions and kneading.
Deep Tissue Massage
A deep tissue massage is very similar to a Swedish massage, with the main difference being how much pressure is applied. As the name suggests, the massage therapist will apply more pressure and focus on the deepest layer of muscle tissue, with the intention of releasing chronic muscle tension.
Trigger Point Massage
When we talk about trigger points, we are referring to tense areas of muscle tissue that can result in pain being felt in other areas around the body. A trigger point massage helps to release this tension and subsequently the pain that it causes in other areas.
When Should You Consider Massage Therapy in Thornhill?
Massage therapy is often used in conjunction with standard forms of medical treatment and has been found to have a positive effect on a wide range of conditions, including:
- Anxiety and depression
- Chronic muscle tension
- Fibromyalgia
- Circulatory conditions
- Insomnia
- Gastrointestinal ailments
- Sports injuries
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Headaches and migraines
- Sciatica and other nerve related pain
- Cancer
Additional Health Benefits of Massage Therapy in Thornhill
In addition to helping improve the specific conditions listed above, massage therapy has a whole range of general health benefits, which include:
- Relieves stress
- Improves your posture
- Improves your circulation
- Lowers your blood pressure
- Strengthens your immune system
- Improves your level of flexibility and your range of motion
Active Care Health Services Inc. has the staff on hand to help you whether you are recovering from a major trauma or you are finding it difficult to relax. To find out more about our massage therapy service or to book an appointment, call us today.
