Health & Harmony, Acupuncture & Massage, Gawler

Massage

Most of us have had a massage, hopefully good, and it helps to bring blood to affected areas and move toxins which can cause restrictions in the muscles. Massage also assist in keeping the muscles supple and healthy which provides better flexibility and strength.

Acupressure Muscle Tension Release

This treatment is one I use often and mostly with acupuncture. It is a very gentle, non-invasive treatment where I place my fingers along specific acupressure points (along the spine and around the scapula that are connected to the central nervous system. This stimulates the nerves, which send messages to the brain to release tension in the muscles along the spine. The body then readjusts itself without harsh manipulation. Muscles have memory, which is why a lot of the time chiropractic treatment is on-going as it does not treat the muscles. AMTR is popular with my patients. It helps with hip, lower back, shoulders, neck problems, and headaches.

A Bowen technique using acupuncture points is another gentle and effective therapy I can use for muscular and skeletal problems. This treatment is often used in conjunction with acupuncture.

Pregnancy Massage

Studies indicate that massage therapy performed during pregnancy can reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle aches and joint pains, and improve labour outcomes and newborn health.

Hormones, such as norepinephrine and cortisol (hormones associated with stress) were reduced, and dopamine and serotonin levels were increased, low level of these hormones are associated with depression. These changes in hormone levels also led to fewer complications during birth and fewer instances of newborn complications, such as low birth weight.

Oedema, or swelling of the joints during pregnancy, is often caused by reduced circulation and increased pressure on the major blood vessels by the heavy uterus. Massage helps to stimulate soft tissues to reduce fluids in swollen joints. This also improves the removal of tissue waste carried by the body's lymph system.

Sciatic nerve pain is experienced by many women in late pregnancy as the uterus rests on muscles of the pelvic floor and lower back. The pressure of the uterus spreads tension to the muscles of the upper and lower leg causing them to swell and put pressure on nearby nerves. Massage Therapy addresses the inflamed nerves by helping to release the tension on nearby muscles. Many women experience a significant reduction or no pain at all after 2-3 treatments.

Other Benefits

• Reduce back pain


• Improved circulation


• Reduced muscle tension and headaches


• Improved oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles


• Reduce Joint Pain


• Reduce Oedema


• Reduced stress and anxiety


• Better sleep

It is important to seek care from a certified prenatal massage therapist. Certified therapists have received training beyond the national standards for massage therapists and know how to address specific pregnancy and massage needs. They are aware of how to position you safely and prevent strain to the uterine ligaments.