FAQ

Q:What is massage therapy?

The practice of massage therapy involves the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of physical dysfunction and pain. A variety of techniques are used to attain these goals such as, the manipulation of soft tissues muscles, tendons and ligaments, mobilization of joints, local and systemic circulation increase, lymphatic drainage, and stretching and strengthening programs. Although massage therapy can be extremely helpful in dealing with an isolated problem, it is most effective when used as part of an ongoing health maintenance program. Regular massage treatments help maintain overall good tissue health by dealing with existing problems and preventing new ones from forming. All of the massage therapists at Meridian Therapy are RMT's, registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario.

Q:What is Swedish Massage?

Western Swedish Massage is most popular first-time massage. The technique was pioneered in 1812 by Swedish physiologist, Per Henrik Ling. Light pressure is applied to relax soft body tissue, improve circulation and enhance range of motion. Massage motions include a system of long graceful strokes, kneading, friction, tapping and vibration on the more superficial layers of the muscles, combined with active and passive movements of the joints. Swedish Massage is regularly recommended by physicians to assist with insomnia, anxiety and depression.

Q:What is Trigger Point Therapy?

Trigger Point release is also known as Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy. Pioneered in the 1940s by Dr. Janet Travell, the technique alleviates pain by applying pressure to tender muscle tissue. Trigger points are positioned in hypersensitive clusters of muscle fiber. Trigger points also cause referred pain to neighbouring tissues. Therapists target these specific points to relieve sensitivity. Massage motions include trigger point compression which diminishes inflammation, tension, stiffness, and pain while increasing motion range, flexibility and circulation.

Q:What is Deep Muscle Massage Therapy?

Deep Muscle Massage is a variation of Swedish Massage but with greater pressure. The technique focuses on deep layers of muscle tissue and fascia, also known as connective tissue. Deep Muscle Massage releases chronic patterns of muscle tension and knots, also referred to as adhesions. Stressed muscles prevent oxygen and nutrient flow, causing toxin buildup in muscle tissues. Deep muscle massage loosens the muscle tissues, releases toxin buildup and breaks down scar tissue allowing oxygen and nutrients to circulate properly again.

Q:What is Hot Stone Massage?

Warm basalt stones are applied to specific regions of the body for a relaxing and comforting massage. Direct heat relaxes muscle tissues and allows for manipulation during deep massage. The heat expands blood vessels, pushing blood and waste through the nervous system. The stones are believed to join the body's flow of energy to reunite the body, mind and spirit as one. Hot Stone Massage is prescribed to heal: muscle aches, pains, strains, poor circulation, rheumatic and arthritic conditions, stress, anxiety, insomnia, depression and fibromyalgia.

Q:What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu, meaning finger-pressure is an Eastern-based massage which treats particular points along meridians (energy channels) and restores the body's flow of energy. Shiatsu techniques release blocked energy along meridians which may be causing physical discomfort. There are two energy forces (Yin and Yang) and five elements that direct through the meridians and internal organs. Massage motions include pressure applied by fingers, palms, elbows, knees and feet. Shiatsu is known to ease muscles cramps, headaches, chronic pain and digestive problems. It stimulates blood circulation and lymphatic flow and is also believed to improve resistance to disease.