Massage Lee’s Summit, everything you need to know

There are many different styles of massage.  The question you should ask yourself is what you want out of your massage.  This will help you to determine the type of massage that will benefit you the most.  Are you looking for relaxation and stress control or are you trying to find relief from an injury or health condition?  

It is important that you always let your therapist know why you are getting a massage, and if needed, you can ask which style of massage they recommend. Many massage therapists use more than one style. Depending on the need, your massage may need to be customized.  This depends on your age, physical health condition, or any special goals or needs that you may have.

Massage is considered complementary and integrative in the medical industry.  However, in recent years massage is being offered along with general medical treatment for many different medical conditions.

Studies show that massage is an effective treatment for reducing stress, pain and muscle tension.  In addition, some studies have found massage can help with the following conditions:

1. Anxiety disorders
2. Digestive problems
3. Fibromyalgia
4. Headaches
5. Myofascial pain
6. Strains or injuries to soft tissue
7. Sports-related injuries
8. Stress-related Insomnia
9. TMJ (Temporomandibular joint pain)

Outside of the medical conditions listed, massage is enjoyed for relaxation, comfort, and connection.  Regardless of the many benefits that massage has, it is never a replacement for medical care by your physician.  

While massage is a benefit to most everyone, certain types of massage may not be beneficial for you.  It is always a good idea to talk to your physician about the pros and cons of massage if you have a medical condition, you are pregnant, have cancer or unexplained pain.

Massage therapy applies both structured and unstructured pressure, tension, motion or vibration to the soft tissues of your body.  Styles differ based on the use of elongated smooth strokes, short strokes, and percussive strokes. There are many different types of massage however we will focus on the most common therapies.

1. Swedish Massage: Swedish massage is probably the most common and popular style of massage.  It is based on the western concept of both anatomy and physiology. This type of massage uses oil or lotion and starts with elongated broad strokes, transitioning to specific stokes addressing any problem areas you may have.  Swedish massage is a full body massage that provides muscle relaxation. It focuses on relief for pain, promotion of circulation and the release of stress-related tension.
2. Aromatherapy Massage: Aromatherapy massage is a Swedish massage that incorporates the use of essential oils added to the massage oil or lotion that the therapist is using.  Essential oils are used to assist in relaxation, energize or uplift your mood. They give off a pleasant scent and are believed to assist in the healing process. Different oils are used depending on what condition you are suffering from such as back pain, digestive issues, headaches, insomnia, premenstrual symptoms and more.       
3. Hot Stone Massage: Hot stone massage uses smooth heated stones which are placed on specific areas on your body.  The therapist also holds the stones while giving the massage. The type of stones used in this massage is most generally basalt, volcanic, stones because they retain heat extremely well.  The heat from the stones helps to relax and loosen muscles that are tight or tense which allows the therapist to reach specific areas of muscle tension.
4. Deep Tissue Massage: Deep tissue massage is a therapeutic type of massage that focuses specifically on targeting muscle knots (adhesions) as well as deep layers of muscle and connective tissue.  This type of massage uses controlled, slow strokes and friction going across the muscle grain. Deep tissue massage is more intense in pressure than a Swedish massage and focuses on chronic pain, strains, postural issues, and injuries.  It is also helpful in treating issues such as carpal tunnel, tennis elbow and the reduction of symptoms caused by osteoarthritis.
5. Pregnancy Massage: Pregnancy massage or prenatal massage is personalized to the needs of the mother to be.  Most often, pregnancy massage is used for relaxation and to help with lower back pain and swollen ankles experienced in the later months of pregnancy.
6. Reflexology: Reflexology massage uses finger pressure, kneading and rubbing to promote relaxation and healing.  Reflexology focuses on your hands and feet as it is believed the energies in these areas are connected to organs and other body parts.  The application of pressure to the reflex points help balance your nervous system and stimulate your bodies endorphins (natural pleasure response).  This type of massage reduces stress and alleviates discomfort.
7. Shiatsu Massage: Shiatsu massage uses localized pressure that is applied in a rhythmic sequence on the body.  Each point of pressure applied is held for two to eight seconds. The focus of Shiatsu is to stimulate pressure points which helps to improve energy flow and balance.  It is used to reduce stress and stress-related health issues. Shiatsu is also used to treat arthritis, insomnia, back pain, neck pain, sciatica, sinus issues and to stimulate the digestive tract.      
8. Thai Massage: Thai massage blends assisted yoga, passive stretching, and pressing massage strokes.  This type of massage is more geared toward energizing. Rhythmic compression is used along the energy lines of the body to reduce stress and helps to improve range of motion as well as flexibility.  It can help in the reduction of spastic muscle pain in the back, treatment of balance issues and migraine headaches.
9. Sports Massage: Sports massage focuses on the manipulation of soft tissues with an emphasis on select muscle groups, dependent on the sport an athlete plays.  This type of massage generally uses faster strokes than what is used in a Swedish massage. Compression, pressure therapy, friction, and joint mobilization may also be incorporated.  Sports massage is used to enhance performance, improve flexibility, treat injuries and help with increased blood flow.

Be sure to discuss any allergies to scents or plant oils.  The most commonly used aromas used in massage are as follows:

1. Calming/relaxation: chamomile, lavender, rose and geranium oil.
2. Uplifting: ylang-ylang, clary sage, rose, and neroli oil.
3. Energizing: rosemary oil.
4. Decongesting: eucalyptus, pine, and tea tree oil.

There are many different types of oils that are used in massage however, the most popular massage oils are as follows:

1. Fractionated coconut oil: Fractionated coconut oil is a light, non-greasy liquid oil that does not stain.  It contains medium-chain triglycerides and is a bit stickier than coconut oil. This oil has a long shelf life and is generally less expensive than other oils.  This oil should not be used on people with coconut allergies or latex allergies.
2. Sunflower Oil: Sunflower oil is a light non-greasy oil.  It is extracted from sunflower seeds and is rich in linoleic acid (essential fatty acid), palmitic acid and stearic acid, all of which are components of healthy skin.     
3. Sweet almond oil: Sweet almond oil is by far one of the most popular massage oils.  It is extracted from almonds and has a pale-yellow color. Sweet almond oil is slightly oily however it absorbs into the skin quickly and tends to stain.  It is reasonably priced compared to other massage oils. This oil should not be used on people with nut allergies.
4. Apricot kernel oil: Apricot kernel oil is similar in texture and color to almond oil; however, it is more expensive.  It is vitamin E rich and has a long shelf life. This oil absorbs well into the skin and does not have a greasy feeling on the skin.  This oil is a good alternative for people with nut allergies.
5. Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil is a wax extracted from the jojoba plant seed.  It does not have a greasy feel and it does not stain, except for microfiber.  Jojoba oil has a long shelf life and is absorbed well into the skin. It has no scent and does not generally irritate skin.
6. Other massage oils: Besides massage oils, massage gels, creams or lotions.   It is important to make sure that you tell your therapist about any allergies you may have to ensure the best experience possible.
   1. Avocado oil: Avocado oil is pressed from the avocado fruit.  It is a heavier oil and is deep green in color. This oil is usually mixed with lighter oils such as sweet almond oil.  People that are sensitive to latex may be sensitive to avocado oil.
   2. Cocoa butter: Cocoa butter is a rich oil that has a distinct aroma.  It is solid at room temperature and has a texture that is heavy. Cocoa butter is usually blended with other oils or may be used for small areas.
   3. Grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is smooth and silky and is not greasy.  Its biggest drawback is that it is the worst oil for staining.
   4. Kukui nut oil: Kukui nut oil is a light, thin and non-greasy oil.  It can be used on all skin types including sun damaged skin.
   5. Shea butter: Shea a heavy oil and can leave a greasy feeling on the skin.  It is extracted from the seeds of a tree that is native to Africa and is usually combined with other oils or used for very small areas.  People with latex allergies should not use shea butter.
   6. Wheat germ oil: Wheat germ oil is thick and heavy and is blended with lighter oils when used for massage.  It is rich in Vitamin E.

The atmosphere and environment while receiving a massage can give you the best or worse experience. The atmosphere should be soothing and promote relaxation.

1. Soft low lighting
2. Soft soothing music
3. Welcoming and relaxing ambiance
4. Soothing or neutral colors
5. Quiet atmosphere
6. Comfortable controlled temperature

Let your therapist know if you are uncomfortable in any way so that your experience is the best that it can possibly be.