Advanced Remedial Massage encompasses a wide range of techniques.

Deep Tissue Massage is to a large degree the basis of the treatment style but is only one of many techinques that would be used within any appointment. The reason for using such a wide variety of techniques besides massage is to ensure the best possible outcome from the treatment you receive. As such we also use various stretching techniques, Muscle Energy Techniques (MET), positional release and often pilates exercises alongside various styles massage. As a whole this type of treatment is known as Advanced Remedial Massage.

MET's are used to target specific muscles and facilitate rebalancing structures in the body and as the name suggests they involve using the muscels themselves to relieve the tension. They increase the benefits of the massage by speeding up the process of returning the muscles to their correct resting length. We use pilates exercises both within the treatment and as exercises you can do at home to help strengthen any weak areas that may be the source of the pain or hinder recovery.

The main effects of Advanced Remedial Massage therapy are on:

1. The Mechanics of the Body
PRINCIPLES OF BODY MECHANICS RELY ON LEVERAGE, BALANCE AND BIOMECHANICS.

• correct mechanics allows movement of body fluids, muscles and joints
• muscles - only muscles move joints - spasms need to be released allowing balance to restore
• improves postural muscles
• Advanced Remedial Massage Therapy releases adherent tissues and fascial restrictions so joints move more easily
• with easier movement - the muscle pump is assisted
• muscles of respiration work more efficiently - aiding the respiratory pump, essential for efficient circulation
• encourages the laying down of the minimum of scar tissue and fibres along the same direction as the muscle fibres
• gives the body space to heal itself
• increases awareness

IF THE STRUCTURE (FOUNDATION) IS FAULTY, THEN THE WHOLE MECHANISM CANNOT WORK EFFICIENTLY

2. The Circulatory System

• the arterial circulation of oxygenated blood to the cells
• the venous system returning de-oxygenated blood to heart, relieving congestion
• the lymphatic system transporting excess fluid, protein and waste products form the interstitial space to the circulation
• circulation to the blood vessels is improved. Walls of blood vessels need to be soft and pliable to assist filtration, elimination and absorption assists the inflammatory response

3. The Nervous System

• brains, which extend via the spinal cord from which the nerves to all organs, muscles and joints arise. The brain releases endorphins as a response to the treatment
•  the autonomic nervous system
  
  
  • the sympathetic nervous system - involved in the General Adaptation Syndrome - involved in increasing energy, the ‘fight or flight' response
  • the parasympathetic nervous system - that calms everything down and encourages rest and repair.