Massage Therapy

Massage Therapy is a popular  and effective method for treating acute and chronic pain, and involves the manipulation of soft tissue. Massage therapy can help manage a health condition and enhance wellness. At MoveRx Physical Therapy, we use massage therapy in collaboration to our other physical therapy

What is massage therapy?

Massage therapy is used to address soft tissue restrictions, reduce pain, promote relaxation, and improve circulation. It can also facilitate the healing of musculoskeletal injuries by:

  • Improving blood flow to tissues, which aids in faster recovery.

  • Reducing muscle tension that often accompanies injuries.

  • Restoring flexibility by addressing tightness or adhesions in muscles and fascia.

  • Enhancing lymphatic drainage, which reduces swelling and inflammation.

  • Alleviating pain through the release of endorphins and improved tissue health.

What Techniques Does Your Massage Therapist Use?

Our Massage therapist often use specialized techniques targeted toward therapeutic goals:

  • Myofascial release: Targets fascial restrictions to increase mobility and decrease discomfort.

  • Trigger point therapy: Focuses on releasing specific points of muscle tightness that refer pain to other areas of the body.

  • Deep tissue massage: Uses deeper pressure to relieve chronic muscle tension.

  • Sports massage: Prepares athletes for intense activity or helps them recover after strenuous exercise by promoting circulation and flexibility.

  • Manual lymphatic drainage: A gentle massage technique aimed at reducing swelling by moving lymph fluid through the body.

  • Cupping: Use of specific cupping technqiues to improve blood flow, circulation, and relieve muscle tension.

How Does Cupping Work?

Cupping is primarily used to relieve muscle tightness, promote relaxation, and support recovery, but it is believed to offer various other health benefits as well:

  • Improves blood circulation: The suction draws blood to the surface, increasing localized circulation to help nourish tissues and promote healing.

  • Relieves muscle tension: The pulling action of cupping loosens tight muscles, making it an effective treatment for conditions like back, shoulder, or neck pain.

  • Reduces inflammation: Some believe that cupping helps reduce inflammation by promoting lymphatic drainage and the removal of toxins.

  • Promotes relaxation: Many people experience a deep sense of relaxation and stress relief during and after cupping sessions.

  • Assists in injury recovery: Cupping is often used by athletes to reduce soreness and improve muscle recovery after strenuous activity.

What conditions does massage therapy help?

Patients suffering from the following conditions or injuries may find relief with massage therapy:

  • Neck & Low Back Pain

  • Shoulder Pain

  • Tennis/Golfers Elbow

  • Headaches

  • Hip and Gluteal Pain

  • Knee Pain

  • Achilles Tendonopathy

  • Sciatica

  • Muscular Strains/Ligament Sprains

Massage Therapy and Physical Therapy Collaboration?

Massage therapists often work in tandem with physical therapists to ensure continuity of care. This collaboration might include:

  • Assessing progress: Sharing observations about muscle tension, areas of pain, or progress in flexibility.

  • Customizing treatment: Adjusting massage techniques based on the physical therapist’s overall treatment goals for the patient.

  • Providing feedback: Regular communication on how soft tissue work may be influencing the patient’s healing and ability to perform exercises prescribed by the physical therapist.

Targeted Treatment.

Massage therapy in a physical therapy office is usually targeted and goal-oriented. Each session is designed to address specific issues that align with the patient's rehabilitation goals:

  • Post-injury care: Massage therapy helps reduce scar tissue formation and improve muscle function after injuries such as strains, sprains, or surgeries.

  • Chronic pain management: Regular massage therapy can alleviate conditions like low back pain, neck pain, or chronic tendonitis.

  • Athletic performance and recovery: For athletes, massage therapy can assist in maintaining flexibility and reducing the risk of injury, especially when combined with strengthening exercises prescribed by the physical therapist.

What is the cost of massage therapy?

The cost of massage therapy is $90 for one hour, $130 for 90 minutes, $165 for 2 hours.

For more information or if you would like to know if dry needling would be a good treatment option for you, please schedule an appointment