What is Therapeutic Massage?

MASSAGE THERAPY AT CENTERPOINT

Massage Therapy at CenterPoint includes Swedish Massage and Advanced Therapeutic Massage. These styles are based on core concepts that can be best learned in a comprehensive training program grounded in the theories of a Western-based science curriculum (anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology). The program is also governed by the principles of a client-centered approach to massage and bodywork, where clients are active participants in their own therapeutic process. The program includes the theories and techniques that encompass different forms of massage therapy, personal and professional development, and a supervised clinical experience.

Swedish Massage

One of the most commonly taught and well-known massage techniques is Swedish Massage. It is a vigorous system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation. Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. Swedish Massage is often used for generalized relaxation, stress reduction, relieving muscle tension, improving circulation and range of motion, health promotion and body image work.

At CenterPoint, Swedish Massage serves as a framework on to which deeper and more precise strokes and techniques are integrated. After learning Swedish Massage students discover the realm of creative massage that is individualized for each client and each session, with emphasis on client needs. A wide variety of strokes, stretches, and range-of-motion to address client needs are incorporated into each session. The student learns to incorporate a wide variety of new strokes, stretches, and range-of-motion to address client needs. The primary principles include: 1) client-focus, so that the parts of the body addressed and the types of modalities used reflect client need; 2) flexibility, the likelihood that each session will be different; and 3) creativity, utilizing several modalities as well as the therapist's own creative strokes.

Advanced Therapeutic Massage

Advanced Therapeutic Massage focuses on rehabilitative, deep tissue and sports massage theory which include trigger point therapy, cross-fiber friction therapy, and myofascial release techniques. Students are taught to address common soft tissue conditions and injuries for clients who suffer from acute or chronic pain or limited range of motion. Students will learn an anatomically precise, structural approach to massage therapy.

Advanced anatomy, palpation skills, and rehabilitative techniques are practiced. These techniques can be applied in a variety of situations, including injuries from accidents, work-related and athletic injuries, repetitive use syndromes, postural distortions, overexertion and others.