Lymphatic Treatments

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Lily Among Thorns Lymphatic & Massage Therapy in Stony Plain, AB, offers a range of different massage techniques. Depending on what you need, Dawn has experience with Relaxation massage, Swedish massage, Deep Tissue massage and Sports massage.

Relaxation massage consists of gentle to medium pressure to the body, manipulating soft tissues to promote relaxation.

The relaxation response is the state of the heart and breathing rates going down. When the body begins to relax stress hormones decrease and muscles relax. During massage the body releases different hormones that have a therapeutic effect on the body. Massage increases endorphins, serotonin and dopamine which are the natural feel good chemicals that the body produces. Massage decreases the amount of cortisol and adrenaline which are stress hormones that cause depression and anxiety. 

Swedish massage is a form of massage therapy that aims to relax muscles, reduce tension, and improve blood flow to the heart. It is known for its therapeutic effects, including the reduction of muscle toxins, increased oxygen levels in the blood, and improved flexibility in the body.

Deep Tissue massage is a massage technique primarily used to address musculoskeletal issues like strains and sports injuries. It involves applying sustained pressure with slow, deep strokes to target the inner layers of muscles and connective tissues. This type of massage aims to break up scar tissue, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation.

Deep tissue massage offers both physical and psychological benefits. While other massage techniques focus on relaxation, deep tissue massage specifically helps treat muscle pain and improve stiffness. It can also aid in mental relaxation. People have also reported beneficial effects of deep tissue massage for sports injuries, fibromyalgia, plantar fasciitis, high blood pressure, sciatica, and tennis elbow.

 Sports massage uses a variety of techniques, including deep tissue massage, stretching, and compression, to help improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation. 

Relaxation, Swedish, Deep Tissue and Sports massage are different types of massage therapy. While they may use similar strokes, they differ in their purpose and the amount of pressure applied.

It's always a good idea to consult with your doctor before trying deep tissue massage, particularly if you have an underlying medical condition.  If you're interested in trying a deep tissue massage, it's important to work with a qualified massage therapist, you can:

• Ask your doctor or physical therapist for a referral.
• Seek recommendations from friends and family.
• Search directories like the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada.

In summary, deep tissue massage is most suitable for individuals involved in physically demanding activities or those with injuries or chronic pain. If you have a low pain tolerance or are seeking tension relief, Relaxation or Swedish massage may be a gentler alternative. 

A hot stone massage is a type of therapeutic massage aimed at promoting relaxation and alleviating tension in muscles and soft tissues. During this treatment, flat and smooth stones, usually made of basalt—a heat-retaining volcanic rock—are placed on certain areas of the body. These stones are heated to temperatures between 130 and 145 degrees Fahrenheit. They can be positioned along the spine, on the stomach, chest, face, palms, and even on the feet and toes. Skilled massage therapists often incorporate traditional Swedish massage techniques, including long strokes, circular movements, vibration, tapping, and kneading, while holding the heated stones.

In addition to the heated stones, cold stones might be used as well, particularly after the hot stones, to calm inflamed blood vessels and soothe the skin.

Here are six potential benefits associated with hot stone massage:

• Muscle tension and pain relief: The application of heat has a history of aiding in muscle relaxation and pain relief. By enhancing blood flow to the targeted area, hot stones may reduce muscle spasms, improve flexibility, and increase range of motion. Alternating between hot and cold stones during the massage could be helpful, depending on the individual's symptoms.
• Stress and anxiety reduction: The American Massage Therapy Association suggests that massage therapy can effectively alleviate stress. Research supports this notion, as studies have shown that even short massages can lead to improved cardiovascular responses and reduced stress levels. Post-operative massage has been found to lower pain, tension, and anxiety in patients who have undergone abdominal colorectal surgery.
• Promotion of sleep: Some studies suggest that massage might serve as an alternative to sleep aids for individuals with insomnia. Back massages, for example, are believed to induce relaxation and improve sleep quality. Infants with sleep issues who receive massages from their parents also tend to fall asleep more quickly and wake up more positively. While the exact mechanisms aren't fully understood, massage appears to contribute to better sleep.
• Support for autoimmune conditions: Hot stone massage could potentially assist in managing painful conditions such as fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis. Research indicates that fibromyalgia patients who received massage experienced better sleep and reduced pain. Similarly, moderate-pressure massage, including hot stone massage, has shown promise in enhancing pain relief, grip strength, and range of motion in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Alleviation of cancer symptoms: A comprehensive study involving individuals with cancer found that massage, particularly Swedish massage, had positive effects on pain, fatigue, stress, anxiety, nausea, and depression. The human touch element of massage therapy is thought to contribute to these improvements.
• Immune system enhancement: Massage may have a positive impact on the immune system. Research indicates that a single session of Swedish massage therapy can lead to acute improvements in immunity. After massage, blood samples showed decreased levels of arginine-vasopressin, a hormone involved in blood pressure regulation and water retention.

In conclusion, hot stone massage offers a variety of potential benefits, from relieving muscle tension and stress to potentially aiding in the management of autoimmune conditions and cancer symptoms. It's important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before pursuing any form of massage therapy, especially if you have specific medical conditions or concerns.

 Cupping therapy has ancient origins and is practiced in various forms using different materials, such as glass, bamboo, earthenware and silicone cups.

The therapeutic effects of cupping are thought to include pain relief, improved blood flow, relaxation, and well-being. The practice involves creating suction within cups placed on the skin, which can lead to skin reddening and temporary raised areas as blood vessels expand. Cupping can be done through both dry and wet methods, and wet cupping involves making small cuts on the skin to draw a small amount of blood.

Regarding safety, cupping therapy is generally considered safe when performed by trained professionals. However, there can be side effects like mild discomfort, burns, and bruises.

Before trying cupping therapy or any alternative treatment, it's wise to consult your doctor. Discuss your intentions and gather information about the therapy, its potential benefits for your specific condition, the training and experience of the therapist, and any potential interactions with standard medical treatments you're already receiving.

Prenatal and postnatal massage is a specialized form of massage therapy designed to accommodate the changes that occur in a woman's body. It offers various benefits and considerations for expectant mothers. Here are things to consider:

• Prenatal massages are adapted to accommodate the anatomical changes and discomforts that pregnant women experience.
• Traditional massage positions, such as lying face down or flat on the back, can be modified due to changes in body shape and the risk of reduced blood flow to the placenta.
• Massage therapists use special cushioning systems, pillows, and props to ensure the comfort and safety of pregnant clients during the massage.

Safety and Timing

• Prenatal massages are generally safe after the first trimester.
• It's important to consult your healthcare provider before getting a prenatal massage, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
• Avoid massages during the first trimester to prevent triggering dizziness and morning sickness.

Massage Techniques and Pressure

• Pressure on the abdominal area is generally avoided as it can be uncomfortable for pregnant women.
• Lying flat on the back is discouraged during massages in the second half of pregnancy due to potential compression of blood vessels.
• Deep tissue work on the legs is generally avoided due to the risk of dislodging blood clots.
• Pressure can vary based on personal preference and comfort, and communication with the massage therapist is key.

Choosing a Massage Therapist

• It's recommended to choose a massage therapist with specialized training in prenatal massage (minimum of 16 hours of advanced training).
• While there's no specific certification, therapists with specialized training will have a better understanding of the needs and concerns of pregnant clients.

Benefits of Prenatal Massage

• Reduces stress hormones and promotes relaxation.
• Loosens muscles and reduces tension, helping to alleviate discomfort.
• Increases blood flow, which is important during pregnancy.
• Supports the lymphatic system, aiding in waste removal and fluid balance.
• Enhances the mind-body connection, providing comfort and reassurance during pregnancy.
• May help with specific discomforts such as insomnia, joint pain, back pain, leg cramping, sciatica, swelling (not due to preeclampsia), carpal tunnel pain, headaches, and sinus congestion.

In summary, prenatal massage can offer significant benefits to expectant mothers by addressing physical discomforts, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation. However, it's crucial to consult your healthcare provider before receiving a prenatal massage, particularly if you have any medical complications. Additionally, selecting a qualified and experienced massage therapist who specializes in prenatal massage can help ensure a safe and effective experience.