Massage Styles 
What is a Swedish Massage?
The term "Swedish Massage" refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart.
Purpose of Swedish Massage?
The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles.
Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing heart load. It stretches the ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable. Swedish massage also stimulates the skin and nervous system and soothes the nerves themselves at the same time. It reduces stress both emotional and physical, and is suggested in a regular program for stress management. It also has many specific medical uses.
Benefits of Swedish Massage?
Swedish massage feels good, is relaxing and invigorating. It affects the nerves, muscles, glands, and circulation, while promoting health and well being.
What are the Contraindications to Massage?
Massage is non-invasive, relaxing and natural. It is therefore generally considered a safe treatment for most people. However, there are three types of contraindication: TOTAL, when massage should not be performed at all, LOCAL, when massage can be performed but not over the contraindicated areas and MEDICAL, when massage can only be performed once medical permission has been granted. The following restrictions are in place to protect your health and well-being. Thank you for taking them as seriously as we do.
Total Contraindications
When you have any of these conditions, please do not book a massage:
* Fever
* Contagious or infectious diseases, including any cold or flu no matter how mild it may seem.
* Under the influence of drugs or alcohol- including prescription pain medication
* Recent operations or accute injuries
* Neuritis
* Skin diseases
Local
The therapist can massage but not over any areas affected by:
* Varicose veins
* Undiagnosed lumps or bumps
* Pregnancy
* Bruising
* Cuts
* Abrasions
* Sunburn
* Undiagnosed pain
* Inflammation, including arthritis
Medical
If you suffer from any of the following conditions, massage can only take place once it has been approved before your session in writing by your Physician.
* Cardio-vascular conditions (thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, heart conditions)
* Any condition already being treated by a medical practitioner
* Oedema
* Psoriasis or eczema
* High blood pressure
* Osteoporosis
* Cancer
* Nervous or psychotic conditions
* Heart problems, angina, those with pacemakers
* Epilepsy
* Diabetes
* Bell’s palsy, trapped or pinched nerves
* Gynecological infections
Does a contraindication mean that treatment connot take place?
Not always. In fact, massage can be very therapeutic for many medical conditions. However, in the above cases it is best to have advice from your physician. Massage therapists, unless they are also qualified doctors, may not, under law, attempt to diagnose a condition.
Call me today to set up an appointment: 214-206-6333