Massage Therapy

Massage is a general term for pressing, rubbing and manipulating your skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Massage therapists typically use their hand, fingers, forearms, and elbows for massage. Massage may range from light stroking to deep pressure techniques. Massage Therapists in Arkansas must graduate from an accrediated Massage Therapy School, and pass the Arkansas licensing exam before they can be licensed as a Massage Therapist. They also must complete continuing education every year to maintain their license.

Studies have found massage helpful for:
    * Stress relief
    * Managing anxiety and depression
    * Pain
    * Stiffness
    * Blood pressure control
    * Sports-related injuries
    * Boosting immunity

There are many different types of massage. The most common types are:

Swedish Massage Therapy is where Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. It is the most common type of massage and is very relaxing.

Aromatherapy Massage  is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs. The massage therapist selects oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc. This type of massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.

Hot Stone Massage is where heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth is comforting. Hot stone massage is good for people who have muscle tension but prefer lighter massage.

Deep Tissue Massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle.Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.

Pregnancy Massage,a lso called prenatal massage, is used to reduce stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pains, and reduce anxiety and depression. The massage is customized to a woman's individual needs, and special pregnancy "pillows" are used to ensure your comfort during the massage.

Sports Massage isn't used for relaxation but for preventing and treating injury and enhancing athletic performance.A combination of techniques are used. The strokes are generally faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen muscles and increase flexibility.

Trigger point massage focuses on trigger points, or sensitive areas of tight muscle fibers that can form in your muscles, causing tenderness which interferes with normal muscle function. Trigger Point Therapy is highly effective in reducing muscle spasms and relaxing hyperactive muscles.  This helps restore normal range of motion and promote faster healing.

Call us today to schedule your massage with Cynthia.  See why she was voted Northwest Arkansas' Favorite Massage Therapist in 2009!