Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from October, 2017

Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT): Theory

This post is the first in a series explaining the differences in massage modalities and their benefits.  If you have any questions about this post or other modalities you would like to know more about, please do not hesitate to contact me:  FreedomBodywork305@gmail.com What is Neuromuscular Therapy? Lets go direct to the source at NMTcenter.com , Nueromuscular Therapy is defined as: " Neuromuscular therapy (NM T )  is a precise, thorough examination and treatment of the body’s soft tissues using regionally oriented protocols that are taught in a step-by-step process."   Generally speaking, most pain patterns in the body can be categorized by at least one of three factors: Biomechanical - stemming from physical imbalance, misalignment, or physical injury. Biochemical - stemming from a pathological chemistry in the body related to disease or diet or even breathing patterns. Psychosocial - stemming from emotional trauma which can manifest mechanically in the body or

Massage is Only for Relaxation, Right?

During my intake interview with a new client last week, they told me that they "just want to relax".  This is often one of the general goals most of us have when we have a massage.  The benefits of massage are numerous: Proven to lower blood pressure. Stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system (the "rest & digest" nerves rather than the "fright or flight" responses of the autonomic nervous system). Improved sleep quality. Improved injury or illness recovery. Improved focus, patience, and general mental function. It's not unusual for massage therapists to receive general information from our clients like "I just want to relax", it's our challenge to see what we can notice that helps us treat what will help each client "relax".  During our treatment I noticed tightness and sensitivity of the Quadratus Lumborum (aka "QL") particularly on the left side.  I spent some extra time treating the tension I fo