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Understanding the Differences: Manual Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage, and Deep Tissue Massage

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Massage therapy has long been a go-to method for relieving tension, improving circulation, and promoting overall health. However, with so many different types of massage therapies available, it’s essential to know the key differences between them. Three commonly sought-after techniques are Manual Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage Massage, and Deep Tissue Massage. Each of these therapies serves a unique purpose and offers specific benefits depending on your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the main differences between the three.

1. Purpose and Focus

The first and most noticeable difference between Manual Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage, and Deep Tissue Massage is their primary focus and purpose.

Manual Therapy 

Manual therapy is often referred to as a clinical or orthopedic approach to bodywork. It is primarily used to address musculoskeletal issues such as joint dysfunction, stiffness, or injury. Typically performed by physical therapists or chiropractors, manual therapy focuses on the manipulation of joints, muscles, and soft tissues to restore function and mobility. Techniques such as mobilization, stretching, and specific pressure applications are used to realign the body, reduce pain, and improve range of motion.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage  

On the other hand, lymphatic drainage massage has a more subtle approach. The primary aim here is to stimulate the body’s lymphatic system, which is responsible for removing toxins, waste, and excess fluids from tissues. This gentle technique involves light, rhythmic strokes that follow the direction of the lymphatic flow. It’s especially beneficial for people dealing with lymphedema (swelling due to lymphatic system blockages), post-surgical recovery, or detoxification. The goal is to support the body’s immune system and enhance fluid circulation rather than focusing on muscular tension or joint mobility.

Deep Tissue Massage  

Deep tissue massage targets deeper layers of muscles and fascia, making it a more intense experience. It’s specifically designed for individuals experiencing chronic muscle tension or injury. Unlike other forms of massage that emphasize relaxation, deep tissue massage applies sustained pressure using slow, deliberate strokes to break up adhesions (knots) and relieve chronic pain. The goal here is to address long-standing tension, realign deeper muscle tissues, and alleviate pain caused by conditions like sciatica, sports injuries, or fibromyalgia.

2. Techniques and Pressure

The techniques and amount of pressure applied during these massages significantly vary, which can affect the overall experience and result.

Manual Therapy

Manual therapy often involves various hands-on techniques that may include stretching, joint mobilization, and pressure application. The pressure can range from light to moderate depending on the goal of the therapy session. The movements are typically more precise, as they aim to improve joint function, reduce restrictions, and enhance mobility. Manual therapists may also use tools like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to complement the hands-on approach.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage  

In contrast, lymphatic drainage uses the lightest touch among the three. This massage involves very gentle, rhythmic strokes, almost superficial, following the natural pathways of the lymphatic system. The technique is specific and requires trained practitioners who understand the lymphatic anatomy. Pressure is kept extremely light because the lymphatic vessels are located just under the skin, and applying too much force can obstruct the flow of lymph fluid.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage uses significantly more pressure compared to the other two. The therapist often uses their fingers, knuckles, elbows, and even forearms to apply sustained, deep pressure to reach muscles and fascia layers beneath the surface. Due to the intensity of the technique, it can be uncomfortable at times, but it is usually very effective in treating long-standing tension or chronic pain.

3. Results and Benefits

While all three therapies offer health benefits, the outcomes vary based on the type of massage and the individual’s needs.

Manual Therapy

The results of manual therapy are often functional. Patients typically seek this treatment to recover from injuries, improve mobility, and decrease pain in specific areas, such as the spine, shoulders, or hips. It’s common to undergo a series of sessions, as this therapy can be part of a larger rehabilitation plan for long-term relief and recovery.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

The primary benefit of lymphatic drainage massage is enhanced fluid circulation and detoxification. Clients often experience reduced swelling, improved immune function, and a sense of overall well-being. This type of massage is particularly helpful for those recovering from surgery, cancer treatments, or dealing with chronic illnesses that affect the lymphatic system.

Deep Tissue Massage  

Deep tissue massage offers immediate relief from muscle tension and pain. The results tend to be more physical, as clients notice reduced muscle tightness, increased flexibility, and pain relief in areas such as the lower back, neck, and shoulders. Athletes and individuals with chronic conditions such as arthritis often seek deep tissue massage for its ability to alleviate deep-seated tension and discomfort.

In summary, while Manual Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage, and Deep Tissue Massage may share some similarities, their differences lie in the purpose, techniques, and results they provide. Manual Therapy is a clinical approach targeting joint and muscle function; Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a gentle, detoxifying technique that supports the immune system, and Deep Tissue Massage is an intensive therapy that addresses chronic muscle tension and pain. Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the right therapy based on your specific health needs.

To learn more about our clinic, check out our website @ ocwc.ca.

massage therapy benefits

Massage Therapy Dos And Don’ts

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Since massage therapy has become the new big trend, more and more people have started opting for it. The reason for this is that this therapy allows individuals to release pains, stresses, and tensions, while gaining maximum benefits and relaxation. However, when it comes to massage therapy, there are a few dos and don’ts every individual must be aware of to get the most out of a single therapy session.

To make your massage therapy experience even better, we have the top dos and don’ts for you!

Dos

  • You must be on time, or even a few minutes earlier than the scheduled time. The reason being earlier is recommended is so that you can get “your fully-allotted time” and get the paperwork done early as well.
  • It is important to shower before the sessions. It will make a good impression on the masseuse. Moreover, it is a common hygienic practice, and the experience will be better overall.
  • Let your masseuse leave the room before you take your clothes off. Even though your masseuse has to deal with undressed bodies the entire day, it certainly does not mean they are open to seeing you take your clothes off.
  • Make sure you are telling your masseuse about any injuries or major surgeries you have undergone. This means ALL the injuries or surgeries you have had in your entire life because it will make a difference.
  • You must speak up if something does not feel right. The best massage is the one that makes your eyes close, but if yours are not, it means there is something wrong. Feel free to let your masseuse know so they can change what they are doing and provide you with the best experience.
  • No matter how relaxed you may feel, it is important to leave on time. As amazing as your masseuse may be, you need to know that he/she has other clients as well.
  • Let your friends know. The best compliment for a masseuse is when there are clients coming in with reference; this shows him/her that she provided his/her clients with top-notch services.

Don’ts

  • Try not to go for a massage when you have a contagious condition or if you are sick. Why? Because you don’t want to get everyone else sick. In case you are, you must call the reception and reschedule your appointment.
  • It is not a sin to have hairy legs, whether you are a man or a woman. Masseuses deal with all sorts of clients every single day, making them used to all these things.
  • Make sure you are not going in for massage therapy if you have consumed alcohol or have taken drugs in the past 24 hours. Narcotics are the last thing you would want in your system when you are getting a massage because it is dangerous and unethical to massage someone under the influence.

These are the top dos and don’ts when you are getting a massage. Simply by following these you will be heightening the benefits of your massage while getting ultimate relaxation.

Give us a call at (780)455-2112 or visit www.ocwc.ca to book online with one of our registered massage therapists!

massage therapist mistakes

Common Mistakes Made by Massage Therapists

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When people opt for the services of massage therapists, they want to receive a treatment that will give them utmost relaxation and reasons to come back for more.

Massages are known as the best way to relax, as they tend to target our muscular pains and relieve it. However, sometimes despite a massage session, all this relaxation cannot be attained. The reason is the massage therapists.

Unfortunately, massage therapists make mistakes both before and after the session that could end up stressing their clients.

Let’s have a look at some of those mistakes:

1.     Lack of Professionalism

If a therapist is constantly cancelling on clients, not replying text or calls, the client will start looking for someone else. Cancelling is only acceptable if there is an emergency, and in that case, it is the therapist’s responsibility to get in touch with the client.

People like to go to therapists that are professional.

2.     Interruptions during Treatment

Since cleintss are opting for a massage for relaxation, disrupting them (by talking or attending calls) will make them never want to come to you again. When massage therapists have a client in front of them, it is important they do not focus on anything else except them.

3.     Noise & Room Environment

Your office is a massage area, not a gym. This is why it is important it is not noisy outside or inside the office. Moreover, if your room is extremely cold or hot, your clientss will not want to come again. It is important you (as the massage therapist) ask your client before beginning what their preferred temperature would be.

4.     Uncomfortable Table

If the massage table does not have a face cradle, arm support or any bolsters that provide comfort to the client, it could lead to lesser and lesser clients for the massage therapist. It is important that they are able to lie down easily. The best investment for all massage therapists would be to buy a comfortable massage table.

5.     Not Listening to a Client

Every client has different goals when it comes to massages. Some do not want to be touched in certain areas, some do not want their body to be too stretched, and others want the entire treatment to be done in one place only.

This is why the massage therapist must ask their client or let them know that they are free to talk any time during the treatment if they want something –in particular- to be done.

6.     Poor Ambience

For massage therapists, the first priority should be the ambience of the massage room. It is important that the room has a calming scent otherwise the client will be distracted throughout the treatment.

These are the top mistakes that are made by massage therapists. If you are paying to get a massage, it is important that you are getting the most relaxation and benefits from it. Do not settle for anything less!

If you’re in the market for professional massage therapists check out our website @ www.ocwc.ca or give our office a call @ 780-455-2112.

The 4 Most Common Massage Therapies

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In recent times, massage therapies have become more and more popular and loved. The reason for this is obvious; massages are known to provide every individuals with comfort and relaxation. Although, there are many different types of massages available, here are the massages that are most loved by the majority of people.

1.     Swedish Massage

This is the most popular kind of massage therapies available at wellness centers, spas, gyms, and clinics. The main goal of this massage is to use long strokes that focus on healing certain areas of your body. The 5 basic strokes in this massage are petrissage (rolling, kneading, lifting), friction (small circular motions), vibration (shaking and rocking movements), effleurage (smooth long strokes), and tapotement (percussion). This massage is the ideal option for those that want to release all tensions from their bodies

2.     Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massage is a modification of the Swedish massage that infuses massage oil with essential oils. Essential oils are derived from plant parts or flowers and are known to have healing powers. For example, the lavender and rose oils are known for their relaxation ability. Although every single one of the oils have their own unique properties, there is a chance that your masseuse has pre-blended an oil blend for you to provide you with ultimate energy, and relaxation so you can be uplifted.

3.     Deep Tissue Massage

Just like its name, the main target of this massage is to go into the deep layers of your muscle and connective tissues so all the muscle knots can be undone. Your masseuse will be using slow strokes or friction directly on top of your muscles. This way the relaxation will be focusing on any tight/painful muscles, postural issues, injuries, or repetitive strain. The pressure used in this massage is more intense as compared to the Swedish massage, but it is not painful. The best candidates for this massage would be those that have chronic pain, injuries, or those that have troubles moving.

4.     Hot Stone Massage

Your masseuse will place smooth, warm stones on the painful areas of your body and he/she will hold the stones while you are being massaged. The stones used in this massage are basalt (this is a “volcanic rock” that preserves heat). The warmth these stones give off have the ability to loosen your tighten muscles so the masseuse can massage on them for ultimate comfort.

However, if you have any health issues like diabetes, varicose veins, high blood pressure, or a heart disease, you need to talk to your doctor before opting for this massage. Similarly, if you are on medication that is thinning your blood, consult your doctor.

Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has qualified registered massage therapists, offering varies types of massage therapies on staff. Give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 to get started today.

Does Massage Even Work?

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Before getting a massage, people usually wonder “does massage even work?” We leave the final decision up to you, but it is true that massage therapy has endless benefits.

The most common benefits are mentioned below:

Alleviates Stress

Whether you are getting a sports massage or a relaxation massage, your stress levels will be lower for longer periods.  This will benefit you thru increased energy levels will, less pain, and enhanced physical/emotional moods.

Intensive Muscle Relaxation

The main goal of massage therapy is to focus on the areas of your body that are aching. This will relieve tension from those muscles, improve your flexibility and provide  relaxation to your entire body.

Massage therapy is also known to release endorphins into your body, which leads to a boost in the serotonin and dopamine levels in your body. These beneficial hormones help your body emotionally and physically. While they deal with pain management and they promote healing, they will definitely calm your nerves.

Better Circulation

The long-term benefits of massage therapy should never be underestimated. Those who get massage therapy consistently will benefit from better blood circulation. The reason why better circulation is so important is because rich blood heals the tense, stiff, and damaged muscles.

Relieving muscle tensions improves blood circulation to your injured or affected muscles. This way, there is more oxygen and nutrients getting to your damaged tissues. When there is “increased activity” in these affected areas, there is less swelling and stiffness in your joints and muscles.

To get started with your massage, give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112 or check out our website @ schroeder.wpengine.com.

 

3 Types of Massages That Are the Ultimate Remedy for Curing Pain

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Do you ever feel that your body is being overused? When you lay down on your bed at the end of the day, it feels like your whole body collapses in a heap of exhaustion. Sometimes overworking the body can cause pain in muscles. You’ll have all sorts of aches, pains and stiffness throughout the day. Luckily, we have a solution for you! Massage, and the right kind of massage, can give your body the boost it badly needs.

Massage is known as the oldest way of healing. Documents from almost three thousand years ago state how massage was used to relieve pain. It is a great way to relieve stress, tension, and aches that you have every day – aches that can lead to disease and illness in the long term. With so many different types of massages offered now, the benefits are endless.

Cure Pain With These Massages

1.     Hot Stone Massage

A hot stone massage is helpful for relaxing and easing tense muscles,  and repairing the damaged tissues in your body. During this massage, smooth, flat, hot rocks are placed on your body, on points where you have the pain.

Heat is known to ease tension, promote blood flow and reduce pain. The hot stone massage has the ability to reduce any muscular spasms that you may be suffering from, and will increase your overall flexibility too. Depending on your condition, cold stones can also be used as they reduce inflammation.

With muscle tension, it is hard to move your joints. The heat in the stones will relieve the pain, as it will relax your muscles. This massage is best for those who are suffering from joint disorders or severe muscle strain.

2.     Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is a massage therapy in which your therapist uses firm pressure and slower strokes to reach the layers deep in your muscles and fascia. This therapy is ideal for chronic pains and aches, which can cause stiffness in your neck and upper back, lower back and shoulders.

This massage is used to heal any scar tissue and to breakdown muscle “knots.” Muscle knots are bands of painful and firm tissue that disrupt blood circulation and cause increasing pain. They limit your range of motion and cause inflammation.

In short, there are two distinct techniques used in deep tissue massage i.e. stripping and friction. Stripping releases pain in the muscle fibers, and friction is the pressure used to realign tissue fibers.

3.     Relaxation Massage

A relaxation massage is a massage that uses smooth and gentle strokes to help you relax. The main purpose of this massage is to relax your body, which allows its natural healing and rejuvenation process to set in. This massage helps you bring your stress levels down because the massage therapist will not apply hard pressure.

Gentle strokes help stimulate the sensory nerve endings that are in your skin. They then convey messages to our nervous system, which cause the brain to release endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural painkillers. They stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, decrease blood pressure, lower the heart rate, and increase digestive activities.

Which One Will You Choose?

Before getting any type of massage, you should consult the masseuse so he/she can give you their best opinion with your condition in mind. Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic offers quality massage therapy services in Edmonton. Give our office a call @ 780-455-2112 to book your appointment today.

With Pain, You Will Have No Gain

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Have you ever felt like you need a getaway? Whether it be a vacation or just a day of pampering yourself, you deserve to treat yourself right. At Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic we realize that everyday lives are consumed with mounds of stress and tension that we wish could stay away from us. The right way to achieve this goal is by getting a massage. It will ease your body pains and will make you feel like a different person altogether.
The word massage is a depiction of deep relaxation and stress relief. Massage therapy is known to help our body in many ways. It helps relax our muscle tissues that leads to less nerve compression, increases joint moving area, and helps with body motion. Once these problems are solved, you will feel physically better as it will reduce pain and improve the functioning of your muscles.

Why Should I Choose Massage Therapy?

1. Improvement in Your Body Circulation
Massage therapy has been proven to help with circulation in our body that then improves the delivery of oxygen. It helps deliver nutrients to the muscle cells and gets rid of wastage. This response of the circulatory motion on the body is a great treatment for those who have arthritis.

2. Balance Your Posture
For all the desk workers, you know how stiff your bodies can get. Staying seated in one place for a long period can lead to lower back and shoulder stress. Massage therapy is a good way to balance all the pain that is caused by sitting. Massages release the energy that gets stored in your body. From now on, make sure you schedule your monthly massage so you can excel at work as well!

3. Got Sore Muscles?
Massage therapy eases muscle pain. It is a much healthier and safer alternative to pain relieving medications. The motions done used in a massage therapy session will increase blood circulation, resulting in looser, more flexible muscles.

4. Helps Ease Anxiety and Depression
It has been said that the human touch can be therapeutic and relaxing. Massages increase the levels of oxytocin and serotonin production in your body, which lowers stress levels and gives you the feeling of bliss. The feeling of relaxation you get during a massage lowers blood pressure and makes your overall mood better. You feel better inside out and that positive energy will radiate through.

5. Sleep Well, Human.
Not only does a massage help you sleep well, but it also makes you rest more comfortably. It promotes relaxation and healthy sleeping. A relaxed body causes your nervous system to respond with a lower heart rate, and this helps you breathe better. A deep sleep will be easier to achieve now! Your muscles will remember the massage sensations clearly, so you can try to recreate that feeling at home. You can create a healthy life for yourself!

Life is too short for you to be living like this. To book your next massage, give our clinic a call @ 780-455-2112.

How Chiropractic & Massage Therapy Work Hand-in-Hand

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Duos often create more exciting outcomes. Lewis and Clark, the Lone Ranger and Tonto, and even Batman and Robin functioned more efficiently together than apart. Complementary pairings propel results and enhance efforts.

This is decidedly true with massage therapy and chiropractic care. While each offer considerable benefits on their own, they often mesh well with each other to create a comprehensive treatment plan for many conditions or injuries.

So, sit back and let us show you how massage therapy and chiropractic care are a pain-fighting, mobility-enhancing dynamic duo.

Massage enables a more effective chiropractic visit. Therapeutic massage warms up muscles and relaxes the individual’s entire body, enabling the chiropractor to maximize his or her chiropractic adjustment for optimal results.

Massage brings about a more stable adjustment. When a chiropractor performs an adjustment to alleviate pain or increase mobility, pre or post massage couples with it to increase the body’s acceptance of the adjustment.

Chiropractic care takes massage therapy’s efforts further, including the joints and bones. Each treatment offers strong relief and recovery to certain areas of the body. Massage produces relaxation in muscles, relieving tension and toxins. Chiropractic care picks up where massage leaves off and extends the treatment efforts to the body’s tendons, joints, bones and, ultimately, the nervous system.

The combination of both…

…works on the body as a whole. Both treatments focus on broad rejuvenation and healing techniques for full body health. In a variety of instances, chiropractic care shows significant increases in treating the overall root of the problem when used in combination with massage therapy.

…gets in the head. Whoever said "it’s all in your head" wasn’t entirely wrong. Individuals sometimes feel stress, dread, or worry over health procedures in general, and chiropractic treatment is no different. Massage therapy serves to relax and de-stress a person, preparing them to go into chiropractic treatments less stressed or tightly wound. A relaxed person’s body tends to respond better to treatment.

…offers shorter recovery times. Blending both treatments into one builds an all-encompassing regimen that works on the condition or injury from multiple points. Tackling health issues this way reduces the time is takes to heal and regain the body’s full mobility.

…decreases discomfort. Massage therapy aids in warming up muscles, readying them for chiropractic adjustments. This experience is similar to stretching thoroughly before exercising. Pliant muscles offer less resistance to a chiropractor’s regimen, resulting in greater patient comfort. This benefits the entire process, as a painless, comfortable visit increases a person’s openness and commitment to future therapeutic endeavors.

…provides longer lasting results. A relaxed body is more open to treatment. Both massage therapy and chiropractic care serve to attain the goal of healing and recovery, and pain minimization or management. Achieving a synergistic effect is possible when both treatments are employed simultaneously. Chiropractic care is known to work deeper and last longer when paired with massage therapy, especially with chronic, painful health issues.

Patients who seek help with bodily conditions or injuries benefit and see results from massage therapy or chiropractic care separately. Both forms of therapeutic relief used together may create an even more significant, longer last result. Chiropractic care and massage therapy complement each other and offer positive benefits to a variety of painful health issues.

Embark on a treatment plan with this healing, effective dynamic duo! Ask your chiropractor if your specific condition would benefit from both principles of care. Give us a call today!

This article is copyrighted by Blogging Chiros LLC for its Doctor of Chiropractic members and may not be copied or duplicated in any manner including printed or electronic media, regardless of whether for a fee or gratis without the prior written permission of Blogging Chiros, LLC.

Understanding the Many Benefits a Massage Can Bring

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Edmonton massage therapyImproper posture is a common source of pain, discomfort and even muscular weakness. It can make everyday tasks into extraordinary challenges while making otherwise enjoyable moments filled with aches and pains.

Massage therapy offers a way to treat posture problems while alleviating many of the symptoms associated with it.

Let’s look at some of the benefits a massage can bring.

  1. Invigorating Your Back

Sitting is one of the biggest weakness of the civilized world. It can allow your back to become weak while forcing other parts to tense up.

A massage can reverse and invigorate your back. It can help increase blood flow, which in turn can help your back recuperate.

  1. Reducing Stress, Anxiety and Depression

One of the biggest benefits of a therapeutic massage is that it’s relaxing. You can sit there while enjoying skillful hands working out every knot and kink in your back.

This can reduce stress, remove anxiety, and alleviate depression.

A massage may be just what the doctor ordered to brighten your day.

  1. Easing Muscle Pain

Muscles aches and pains are another common problem associated with posture. Pharmaceuticals can treat these things, but they do not treat the source of the pain like a massage can.

Regular therapeutic massages can help reduce muscle pain and even improve muscle function.

  1. Fighting Germs

Massages have been shown to improve white blood cell counts, which means that they can help your body battle sickness, disease and even injury.

The idea behind why this works is mixed. Some researchers postulate that it is the increased blood flow a massage fosters, while others think there is a link between increased neural activity and a massaged back the foster a better immune response.

  1. Restful Sleep

Poor sleep can exacerbate back problems, but back problems can make sleep poor. By solving one problem, you can sometimes solve the other.

People who receive back massages are more likely to acquire a restful and full night’s sleep. This can give you the energy you need to conquer tomorrow.

Let Massage Treat Your Problems

Massages can foster a plethora of benefits that can make your everyday existence a happy and productive one.

When you’re ready to reap the benefits of a professional massage, then book an appointment at the Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic by calling 780-455-2112