Massage

Many conditions benefit from physical therapy alongside herbal treatment. As a qualified therapist I integrate massage into treatment where appropriate or can offer separately. I use a wide range of massage techniques including deep tissue work.

Benefits of massage

• improves blood and lymphatic circulation around the body.
• this improves the availability of nutrients to muscles and skin, and the removal of waste materials.
• stimulates the immune system.
• prepares the body for exertion, and afterwards aids recovery.
• releases mental, emotional and physical tension, thus improving overall function.
• provides relaxation or stimulation as appropriate.

What to expect during a therapeutic
massage treatment

The therapist will take a history of your presenting complaint, and ask questions regarding your past and present health. It is helpful if you can provide a list of any medications that you have been prescribed. You may also be asked about your diet and lifestyle as well as mental and emotional factors such as stress. The therapist will then discuss the proposed treatment with you.

The therapist will usually begin the treatment by observing how you move and examining any problem areas. You will then be asked to remove relevant clothing and lie on the massage couch. During the treatment, areas that are not being treated will be kept covered by towels. Initially gentle massage techniques are used to relax the muscles whilst deeper, more powerful techniques are used later on in the treatment.

The area treated will depend on the individual case. Some treatments may focus entirely on one or two areas such as the back and neck. In other cases the therapist may decide that a full body massage is more appropriate.

Good quality, cold pressed oil is used to facilitate the massage, and if appropriate essential oils are added to this to improve the effects of the treatment.

All consultations are confidential.