What is massage therapy?
Massage therapy is commonly used to help individuals whose muscles have experienced prolonged periods of overuse. It helps release tight areas and makes recovery faster and easier.
Your Soft Tissues and You
Your muscles are made up of many small, thin fibers that contract when activated, working together to move your muscle groups. These muscles are connected to your bones by connective tissues called tendons, allowing movement throughout your body. Your bones are then connected by strong bands of connective tissue known as ligaments, which provide stability. Covering your ligaments is another type of connective tissue called fascia. All of these connective tissues are collectively referred to as “soft tissues.”
Soft tissues help move your joints and give your body the strength it needs to perform daily tasks. They allow you to do many things, but they can also be vulnerable to overuse—even when that overuse is unintentional. Soft tissues can be damaged by certain stresses, especially those caused by repetitive movements during sports or physical activity. Massage therapy can help relax these muscles and may even help prevent future injuries.
How Massage Therapy Will Improve Your Life
Massage therapy can be highly beneficial for people of all ages and activity levels. Our therapist may recommend specific types of massage to complement your physical therapy treatment, including:
- Deep tissue massage: This type of massage helps relax the muscles and their connective tissues.
- Myofascial release: This technique creates space for tissues that may be restricted by fascial adhesions or distortions, releasing them from tension and compression.
Massage therapy promotes tissue healing, helping you return to your daily activities as quickly as possible. By mobilizing, loosening, and relaxing the muscles, it helps keep them flexible and resilient, reducing the risk of future strains, sprains, and tears.
Your soft tissues work hard to keep your body functioning properly, which is why it’s important to support and optimize their health and performance.