Wednesday, May 23, 2018

What is Cranial Sacral Therapy?

What is Cranial Sacral Therapy? - Winnipeg Massage Therapists - Academy Massage Therapy
When it comes to the bones of the head, the sacrum, and the spinal column, cranial sacral therapy is a top method for addressing issues including stress and pain. With cranial sacral therapy, compression on these areas is applied which leads to pain relief and lowered stress levels. The goal of this therapy type is to restore the natural position of the bones in the head and neck, decreasing stress in this area of the body that can be a result of chronic injury. Additional conditions which can feel relief from this treatment type include neck and back pain, migraines and joint inflammation.

How Did Cranial Sacral Therapy Start? 

Cranial Sacral Therapy, also known as CST, was created by Dr. William Sutherland, an Osteopath in the 1930's. The massage treatment type affects the central nervous system via the craniosacral system. This system includes the skull, cerebrospinal fluid, cranial sutures, vertebrae, brain membranes, sacrum and spinal cord.

It is believed the normal rhythm of the body is disrupted due to trauma which can occur due to injury. With CST, gentle massage techniques are used to remove any blockages and restore the movement needed in the central nervous system. Gentle pressure is provided by the therapist and does not involve manipulation of this area of the body, like what a chiropractor would do. The pressure by the therapist is very light.

What Happens During a Cranial Sacral Therapy Session?

What happens during a cranial sacral therapy session? - What is Cranial Sacral Therapy? - Winnipeg Massage Therapists - Academy Massage TherapyDuring a CST session, the therapist may move the ribcage and limbs, checking the shoulders and hips as well as feeling of the spine, sacrum, and cranium. This will help the therapist to find any restrictions and then work on those areas of the body. The subtle rhythms of the body are felt with touch, with the therapist able to feel where rhythms are missing. After the evaluation, the therapist knows which areas to work on to provide relief.

When the cranial sacral therapy treatment begins, the therapist will use a gentle traction and unwinding techniques as well as decompression and compression techniques to release restrictions in the body. Lifts and still point induction are also common techniques used. The therapist will need to be very familiar with this technique as well as the central nervous system to provide relief. In addition, read our general 'What to Expect' page on our website.

Cranial Sacral Therapy Benefits - What is Cranial Sacral Therapy? - Winnipeg Massage Therapists - Academy Massage TherapyCranial Sacral Therapy Benefits

With CST, there are many ways that a patient can benefit. The treatment type is said to relieve headaches and migraines as well as conditions associated with chronic pain. Post-surgery pain can be relieved with this technique along with post-traumatic stress disorder, hip and neck pain, earaches, irritable bowel syndrome and many other conditions.

It is important to note your condition to the therapist to find out if CST will be of benefit. After treatment, you should be able to tell a difference in how you feel. Additional treatments can be provided on a long-term basis to ensure you continue to enjoy quality health.

Academy Massage offers cranial sacral therapy treatment sessions, helping individuals with the various conditions listed above to feel relief. Contact Academy Massage today to learn more about this unique massage technique – and to book your appointment!

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Massage Therapy for Marathon Training – make it part of your routine

Runners running a marathon - Massage Therapy for Marathon Training – make it part of your routine - Academy Massage Therapy
Training for a marathon takes a great deal of time and dedication. Runners have to train on a consistent basis, working the body and the mind, preparing for the long race. One way that runners can assist in their training efforts is to schedule a pre-marathon massage. Massage therapy for marathon training can prepare the body for the event by creating a renewed sense of energy. The massage therapists at Academy Massage are trained in pre- and post-event stretching techniques which will help prevent injury and reduce recovery time.

Massage Therapy for Marathon Training – the Preparation Massage

If you have never had a pre-event massage before, it is important to test the treatment. Some runners prefer a deep tissue massage before the big race, working every muscle and tendon in the body. Others will prefer a lighter touch, as a way of relaxing the body fully before the race day. The end goal is to come out of the massage feeling refreshed, renewed and light on your feet – ready to tackle the big event.

Similar to the amount of pressure during the massage therapy treatment, the focus of the massage will be dependent on the individual’s preference. Some runners want to work on stretching and making the muscles more pliable, so they will be ready to work properly during the marathon. Others may want work focused on certain muscles, if they are tight due to being overworked during training for the race.

Massage Therapy for Marathon – the Post-Event Massage

When race day has come and gone, many marathon runners enjoy post-event massage. After running a marathon, your body needs rest and to be restored. Massage Therapy treatment can provide a form of recovery helping to decrease soreness, stretch tight or constrained muscles and give overall relief to tired muscles.

With the Manitoba Marathon just a month away, consider how massage therapy could be incorporated into your training routine. Academy Massage offers quality massage options that can be of benefit to marathon runners – contact us today to learn more!