Massage therapy is such an amazing addition to any self-care routine! Many people are familiar with Swedish massage, the more relaxing style most commonly offered in spas. Another popular style is deep tissue massage, and with a name like that, people often associate it with elbows, intense pressure, and even pain!
But in the world of massage therapy, there are so many modalities to choose from, ranging from gentle energy work to more focused, deep tissue techniques.
What I’d like to share with you today is my therapeutic approach to massage and a few areas of the body that aren’t typically addressed during traditional massage sessions.
Over the last year, I’ve taken several classes to expand my knowledge and skills in working with areas of the body that are often overlooked. These specialized techniques include abdominal and visceral massage, psoas release, and bodywork to support pelvic floor dysfunction.
Many of the clients we serve here at Moment of Truth come to us seeking treatment for these areas, and with the help of our amazing physical and occupational therapists, they’re receiving that specialized care.
What many people don’t realize is that, as a massage therapist, I can work in tandem with Amy and Kaylen to complement their treatments and help provide you with comprehensive, individualized care.
Below, I’d love to offer a little insight into what you can expect from these more specialized massage sessions.
Abdominal & Visceral Massage
Abdominal and visceral massage techniques tend to be gentler, allowing us to slowly and carefully address fascial restrictions, scar tissue, abdominal muscles, and deeper structures such as the psoas and surrounding pelvic attachments.
This area can be particularly sensitive, so it’s important that the work is performed with plenty of communication, focus, and care.
Oftentimes, clients share that receiving abdominal bodywork has helped relieve tension in their backs, especially when their bodies have spent years compensating for restrictions or discomfort elsewhere.
Another specialty worth highlighting is fertility-focused abdominal massage. This gentle approach focuses on promoting relaxation, addressing soft tissue restrictions, and supporting comfort and mobility throughout the abdominal and pelvic regions. While massage has not been proven to increase fertility, it can be a supportive part of a broader wellness approach for those navigating their fertility journey.
Psoas Release
Psoas release can be an intense experience if performed too quickly or aggressively. However, when approached slowly and carefully, releasing tension in this area can provide significant relief for some clients.
Many clients come in with complaints of lower back pain without realizing that some of that discomfort may be connected to deeper muscles, such as the psoas, which can be accessed through the abdomen.
By addressing tension and restrictions in these muscles, we may be able to improve mobility, reduce discomfort, and help the body move more freely.
Pelvic Floor Support
Massage therapy can also be incredibly helpful when incorporated into a pelvic floor physical therapy treatment plan.
Through specialized external bodywork techniques, we can address tension in the inner thigh muscles, hips, and surrounding tissues that may contribute to tightness and discomfort throughout the pelvic region.
Many clients report that this type of focused massage helps relieve tension around the sacrum and pelvis, sometimes even reducing lower back discomfort.
Working alongside our pelvic floor therapists allows us to complement the more specialized treatment they’re providing and support your body’s overall healing process.
Your Healing Journey Matters to Us!
At the end of the day, our goal is to provide you with the best possible care while making sure you have the knowledge and information needed to make confident decisions about your individualized treatment.
Healing isn’t always about focusing on the area where you feel pain. Sometimes, it’s about discovering the connections throughout your body and addressing areas you may never have considered!
If you’re curious about any of these specialized massage techniques, please don’t hesitate to ask me about them at your next appointment. I’d love to share more about how they might support your healing journey.
We appreciate each and every one of you who has chosen to make us here at Moment of Truth PT a part of your healing journey. It truly means so much to us!
Much Love,
Monique and The Moment of Truth Team! 💜
0 comments