Massage Therapy
Katie has been a massage therapist for 12 years. In addition to completing the required hours for certification as a massage therapist in Oregon, she has completed multiple trainings in specialized modalities, including Myofascial release, Neuromuscular and Trigger Point Therapy, Shiatsu, Tuina, Lomi Lomi, Thai Massage, and a wide variety of Spa Therapies.
Sessions with Katie include a deeply therapeutic and relaxing blend of these styles. Many clients describe her work as simultaneously incredibly relaxing and energizing. Her goal in every treatment is to restore healthy range of motion, reduce or resolve pain, and induce a deep state of peace.
Benefits of Massage Therapy
Whether you lead an active or sedentary lifestyle, you may experience many different types of injuries. Massage therapy helps you heal faster by improving circulation, breaking down scar tissue, and lengthening the tissues as they heal.
The following are some of the most common injuries that respond well to massage:
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1. Low back pain
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Given the large percentage of the population that work an office job, it’s no surprise that low back pain is so common. When seated, pressure is placed on your spine and back muscles. This pressure increases with slouching and incorrect posture.
You can avoid the onset of low back pain by maintaining good posture and using an ergonomic chair that is adjusted to your body shape. A sit-stand desk or standing desk can also be beneficial. If you already struggle with back pain, massage can help.
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2. Repetitive Strain Injury
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Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is another common injury, particularly if you lead a sedentary lifestyle. RSI can be caused by overuse of specific body parts, such as the soft tissues of your neck, back, hands, arms, or shoulders. If you work at a computer for prolonged periods, you may develop tingling, numbness, and tightness in the hands, neck, and other parts of the body.
Reduce the risk of developing RSI by using ergonomic equipment and gripping office tools lightly. Take regular breaks. If you already have RSI, massage can help.
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3. Soft tissue injuries
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Soft tissue injuries is a broad category of injuries involving soft tissue rather than, say, bone. Muscle strains, ligament sprains, tendon injuries, and injuries to the myofascial tissue (connective tissue around the muscles) are examples of soft tissue injuries. Soft tissue injuries can result from playing sports, exercise, and general physical activity.
If you have a soft tissue injury, it’s wise to seek medical attention right away. You should rest the affected area, apply ice, and use compression to support the area, reducing swelling. If you see a massage therapist, they might advise you to avoid using massage therapy on the damaged area for a few days, though indirect massage to surrounding areas could be beneficial.
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4. Muscle-related neck pain
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The neck is a common zone for injuries, whether due to poor sleep positioning, posture, constant strain, or a sports injury. Pain in the neck muscles can present a major nuisance to your daily life.
A massage therapist can use a range of massage techniques to address the specific muscle groups affected. Deep tissue massage, for example, can be used to treat the causes of your neck pain.
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5. Rotator cuff tear
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The rotator cuff is one of the four muscles that allows your arms to rotate at the shoulder. This common shoulder injury occurs when you strain or pinch the tendons and damage the soft tissue. Bruising, swelling, and general pain can be the result.
While people who experience rotator cuff tears will often have physiotherapy treatment, massage therapy can also be beneficial. Remedial massage supports a faster healing process by improving circulation and breaking down the scar tissue during the healing stage. A massage therapist can also assist your muscles to heal to their full length, so you don’t end up with shortened muscle fibres once the injury heals.
