Therapeutic Massage

The ancient art of massage is now recognized as serious medicine. Doctors, hospitals and even insurance companies have come to realize that therapeutic massage can play a vital role in treating injury and illness.

Massage therapy has been proven to eliminate pain, speed healing and bring relief from the debilitating symptoms of many chronic illnesses and conditions. At the Center for Physical Health, we find that when we help you experience a respite from pain and anxiety and you feel relaxed and balanced, you'll be more able to take control of your own healing process. And that is one of the most important steps toward recovery.

Our massage therapists are trained in anatomy, physiology and pathology, so they understand the structure and function of the human body as well as the nature of illness and disease. And they're certified in many bodywork disciplines. This combination of knowledge and skill results in an extraordinarily refined sense of touch. Patients say our therapists have an uncanny ability to go right to where it hurts and make it feel better.

MASSAGE TECHNIQUES

• Deep Tissue - Also called Myofascial Release. Fascia is a form of connective tissue that provides space, structure and support to muscles. Deep tissue work uses slow, sustained movements to relieve pain and help you regain function.

• Reflexology - This approach is based on the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands that correspond to all the glands, organs and parts of the body. As pressure is applied to specific points, it stimulates the natural energy of related body part and assists in restoring health.

• Reiki - Reiki or universal life energy is a healing technique that originated in Japan. By gently placing the hands on or above the body in specific positions, this treatment is designed to relieve pain, restore vitality and enhance the spirit.

• Shiatsu - In this traditional oriental technique, the practitioner uses their fingers  (shi)  and pressure (atsu) to release blockages along the body's energy pathways. It stimulates, restores balance, relieves tension and stress, and imparts a renewed feeling of vitality.
• Swedish - This approach utilizes long strokes and kneading to reduce tension, loosen tight muscles, soothe sore muscles and increase circulation, promoting total relaxation.
• Trigger Point - The trigger point technique is designed to release muscle spasms that develop as a result of muscle tension caused by chronic pain and inflammation.
• Thai Massage - Combines techniques found in Western therapies with Eastern philosophies and yoga positions. Thai massage can give individuals with physical limitations even those confined to a wheelchair the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of yoga, including stretching and relaxation.

WHO CAN BENEFIT

Massage brings relief from many chronic conditions and illnesses, because it affects so many aspects of our bodies. It improves health by acting directly on the muscular, nervous, circulatory and immune systems.

Massage strengthens the immune systems of people with auto-immune disorders, and promotes deeper and easier breathing for people with asthma. Parkinson's patients find it helps them maintain flexibility and avoid robotic movements in the face of decreased muscle control.

Researchers have found that when people with fibromyalgia received massages they had less pain, stiffness and fatigue. They slept better and felt less depressed.

Massage improves joint mobility and joint health, crucial for arthritis sufferers. It can increase range of motion in your joints by releasing muscle tension around them. And as circulation is increased in the joints, it actually stimulates the healthy production of the joint's natural lubrication.

Cancer patients find it helps combat the negative effects of treatment such as dehydration and stiffness. With diabetes, massage helps with circulatory problems to maintain healthy tissue. And research has shown that children with diabetes have more normal blood sugar levels after massage.

 I started going to the Center for degenerative disc disease and found enormous pain relief. Then I had a serious fall that activated a painful case of sciatica, tendonitis in my right shoulder and an inflamed rotator cuff. Physical Therapy, Feldenkrais, and Therapeutic Massage took my pain away.

Before I went to the Center for Physical Health, I thought massage was just a luxury a guilty pleasure, but the massage therapists there are knowledgeable and well trained, which accelerated my healing. I don't know what I'd do without the Center.

- Elizabeth F. West Hollywood