REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPY
Massage is the systematic and scientific manipulation of soft tissue and joints of the body. It has been used for thousands of years for relaxation and to restore and promote the good health of both mind and body. Massage reduces stress, relieves physical tension, improves mental response and productivity, aids in the prevention of repetitive stress syndrome, increases cardiovascular efficiency, enhances the immune system and reduces delayed onset muscle soreness.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture works on the philosophy of meridians - pathways where energy flows through the body.
As an acupuncturist, I use tiny single use needles to adjust where that energy flows to bring the body back in balance. This will alleviate pain, calm the body, correct digestive and hormonal imbalances and relieve stress.
Accepting patients in all forms.
Although our patient demographic is dominantly woman who are journeying through a life change, everyone is welcome.
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Infant Massage
Infants can benefit from nurturing touch in a variety of ways including relaxation, promotion of physical growth and neurological development, and improved sleep and digestion. Infant massage can also promote social and emotional development as infants interact through touch and face to face interaction. Parent/caregiver participation can promote bonding and awareness of infants cues.
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Maternity & Postnatal Care
Individuals in their childbearing year have a host of unique physical challenges. Common complaints that respond well to treatment are swelling, headaches, low back pain, sacroiliac pain, round ligament pain, groin pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, hip pain, general achiness and fatigue. Home and hospital visits may be arranged.
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Pre & Post Surgical Care
Optimize tissue health pre op for greater post op results with increased recovery time. Increase circulation, decrease inflammation & fascial restrictions plus scar & pain management.
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Breast Health
We want to normalize the conversation around optimizing breast health at any stage in a serene, quiet space.
Addressing breast health: mastectomy, cosmetic procedures, maternity-related concerns, breastfeeding issues, and maintaining healthy breast tissue.
When is BREAST massage indicated?
Breast massage has many purposes, from identifying breast cancer, treating scar tissue/ altered breast tissue post mastectomy, easing sore tissue & muscles, decreasing fascial restrictions associated with surgery (augmentation, explant, reconstructive- expanders, reduction, mastectomy, etc.) or improving your breastfeeding experience.
The breasts contain mammary glands that produce milk, as well as a complex network of lobes, ducts, blood vessels, fatty and fibrous tissues, and lymphatic tubes. Massage may help keep the breasts healthy. The potential benefits include:
BREAST CANCER: breast massage may help detect breast cancer as a form of examination. A malignant lump may feel like a hardening or thickened tissue in the breast which may alter the breast size or shape. Early diagnosis can lead to better outcomes. Please keep in mind that breast lumps are unlikely to be breast cancer. In most cases it can be a relatively benign cyst or infection. Post Mastectomy massage therapy is indicated to provide a soft tissue/scar tissue correction and increase blood flow, brining ones self back into their body, patient education on self love/massage, improve quality of life and increase range of motion.
BREASTFEEDING: breast massage may help increase flow of milk, reduce pain that occurs if milk builds up potentially leading to Mastitis. Signs and symptoms mastitis include:
discomfort
an area of hard swelling
red streaks on the skin of the breast
hot skin around the clogged duct
intense pain in the breast
fever
pus or blood in the breast milk
Mastitis is most common in the first 3 weeks after childbirth, although it can occur at any time during breastfeeding. Women who are bottle-feeding may also develop mastitis shortly after their milk comes in, as they are not releasing milk from their breasts.
TOXINS: The lymphatic system is a network of vessels that collect and filter excess fluid waste around the body. These vessels in the breasts carry fluids to the lymph nodes near the breastbone, collarbone, or underarm. Damage to the lymphatic system can cause fluid and waste to build up. This buildup can lead to swelling, called lymphedema.
Breast massage may help stimulate the lymph vessels and reduce the risk of lymphedema in the arms and chest.
SORE MUSCLES: If you’re feeling sore, breast massage can also help ease the tension in your chest muscles. Specifically muscles called your pectorals will be targeted. Pectoralis major and minor are always being recruited as we are on our phones/computer, postural, activities or exercises. The pectorals are shaped like triangles and rest underneath your breasts. If you develop tension in your back, you may compensate by tensing your chest muscles as well. Massage to the chest can bring on more lasting relief than just treating the back alone.