Massage Therapy

Ivy Commons Massage Center

4422 Ivy Commons
Charlottesville Va, 22903
(434) 293-1300

Massage Rates

• $80.00  for 1 Hour

1. $63.75 for  45 Min

• TYPES OF MASSAGE WE OFFER: 25 Reasons to Get a Massage

BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY

Many of today’s health problems can benefit from massage because the manipulation of soft tissues affects many of our body systems. Massage has a therapeutic affect and improves health by acting directly on the muscular, nervous, circulatory, and lymphatic (immune) systems.

PHYSICAL BENEFITS

• Relieves muscle tension and stiffness

• Provides greater joint flexibility, range of motion, and aids in relaxation

• Promotes deeper and easier breathing

• Powers blood pressure

• Helps relieve tension-related headaches and effects of eye strain

• Enhances health and nourishment of skin

• Improves posture

• Enhances athletic performance

• Alleviates discomfort during pregnancy

• Improves circulation, recovery time, and immune system function

• Treats injury caused during sport or work

• Fosters faster healing of strained muscles and sprained ligaments

• Reduces pain and swelling, muscle spasms, and formation of excessive scar tissue

• Relieves and prevents physical dysfunction and pain

• Can stimulate weak, inactive muscles

• Can stimulate and sooth nerves

MENTAL BENEFITS

• Promotes a relaxed state of mental alertness

• Enhances capacity for calm thinking and creativity

• Reduces levels of anxiety

• Creates body awareness

• Alleviates insomnia

• Relieves mental stress

• Interrupts cycle of stress

• Improves ability to monitor stress signals and respond appropriately

• Decreases the effects of depression

• Satisfies the need for caring, nurturing touch

WHAT MASSAGE DOES FOR YOUR BODY:

? Massage affects the nervous system through nerve endings in the skin, stimulating the release of endorphins, inducing relaxation and a sense of well being, relieving pain, and reducing levels of stress chemicals such as cortisol and noradrenaline.

? Massage helps reverse the damaging effects of stress by slowing heart rate, respiration, and metabolism and lowering blood pressure.

? Massage stimulates blood circulation, improving the supply of oxygen and nutrients to body tissues. It helps the lymphatic system flush away waste products.

? Massage eases tense, knotted muscles and stiff joints, improving mobility and flexibility.

? Most massage therapists use a combination of techniques. If you are looking for something specific be sure to mention it when you call to schedule your appointment.

SWEDISH

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• Swedish is the most popular form of massage in U.S., although it is simply a proper name, not a reference to Sweden or created by anyone from Sweden. Swedish massage is a collection of techniques designed primarily to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones. The method utilizes various degrees of pressure with a wide range of stroking techniques including kneading, tapping, and brushing. Strokes are in the same direction as the flow of blood to the heart and one of the primary goals is to speed venous return from the extremities.
  Swedish massage improves circulation without increasing heart load, stretches ligaments and tendons, stimulates skin and nerve system, and relaxes the nerves. It also shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissue of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes.
   

DEEP TISSUE

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• Deep tissue massage concentrates on deeper layers of muscle tissue and aims to release chronic patterns of tension in the body. The strokes are slow and penetrating and deep finger pressure is used on contracted areas. Deep tissue massage can help break up and eliminate scar tissue. The depth of the strokes may cause some soreness during or right after the massage, but you should feel better within a day or two.

CRANIO-SACRAL

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• Cranio-sacral therapy is based on the cranio-sacral system – the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the skull, face and mouth (which make up the cranium) down to the sacrum or tailbone. The role of the cranio-sacral system in the development and performance of the brain and spinal cord is so vital that an imbalance or dysfunction in it can cause sensory, motor and/or neurological disabilities.
  
  Cranio-sacral therapy is a gentle, non-invasive technique. The therapist using a soft touch to release restrictions in the craniosacral system in order to improve the functioning of the central nervous system. Cranio-sacral massage encourages the body’s own natural mechanisms to improve the functioning of your brain and spinal cord. It dissipates negative effects of stress, promotes good health, and enhances resistance to disease.

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE

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• Fascia is a connective tissue that covers all organs, nerves, and muscles, like supportive webbing. It surrounds groups of muscle fibers, entire muscle groups and organs and affects all components of the musculoskeletal, neural, and visceral (organ) systems. Both fascia and muscle tissues can become shortened if they are not properly used. When muscle fibers are injured, the fibers and the fascia which surrounds the muscle can become short and tight. Fascia are involved when a person suffers chronic pain or physical dysfunction and fascia retain tension from physical and emotional traumas.
  
  Myofascial Release is used to coax muscles in spasm to relax and break up adhesions in the fascia. Moderate, sustained pressure and gentle traction are applied to facilitate stretching of the tense connective tissues and the muscle. Myofascial Release helps the body release tension that has been stored in the fascia.

TMJ DYSFUNCTION & BRUXISM

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• TMJD, or TMJ Dysfunction, is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), as well as the muscles surrounding the jaw. Bruxism is clenching and/or grinding the teeth, and often occurs at night when we sleep or when we are experiencing stressful conditions. This can have a huge effect on the TMJ because constant strain on the muscles of the jaw can eventually cause deterioration of the joint. It can also cause severe dental problems.
  Most people who suffer from TMJD are well aware of the condition because it is painful and can cause headaches. Stress, anger, and anxiety are major causes of this dysfunction. Symptoms of TMJD include clicking or popping of the jaw, pain in the jaw, clenching or grinding the teeth, the jaw locking, tired jaw, and a headache upon wakening. The first session is usually an hour and a half, followed by sessions that last an hour.

TRIGGER POINT

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• The massage therapist locates trigger points, which are tender areas where muscles have been damaged or have acquired a re-occurring spasm or ‘kink’ that worsens painfully when aggravated. Trigger point sensations can include pain, tingling, numbness, burning, or itching. Trigger points may develop anywhere in the body, but are most commonly found at the sites of the greatest mechanical and postural stress. The major goal is to relieve muscle spasms and cramping and introduce new blood flow into the area.

NEUROMUSCULAR

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• Neuromuscular massage addresses specific conditions within the muscular system. Neuromuscular work affects the body profoundly in many ways, but is usually indicated for areas where muscles are chronically tight. (Such as between the shoulder blades, or the neck or back.) When we are under a lot of stress, muscles in different areas of our body tense up. We don’t always notice this. If the stress isn’t removed, these muscles never relax. The normal process of nutrient/waste transport is then interrupted because the nervous system tells the muscles to continually contract. Chemicals that operate to generate muscle cell contraction are normally reabsorbed when the muscle relaxes. An interruption in this process creates ‘chemical congestion’ in the muscle cells and affects the nervous system in a similar way. We then experience pain, stiffness, reduced mobility and function. In some cases, chronically stressed muscles can press on nerves, which can create tingling, pain and/or numbness. Over time, left untreated, the muscles become accustomed to this state of dysfunction which can affect posture and the way we move. Neuromuscular work creates changes in the muscle fibers and nervous tissues, which helps the body to restore those systems. Treatments can restore function, improve posture and facilitate structural changes.

REFLEXOLOGY

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• Reflexology was used in ancient Egypt and China. In 1913 Dr. William Fitzgerald developed Zone Therapy by researching the nervous system and reflex actions. He observed that a person’s hands and feet are linked to other organs in the same zone of the body. In the 1930’s Eunice Ingham developed modern Reflexology based on Zone Therapy. Tension and congestion in any part of the foot can also usually be found in a corresponding part of the body.
  Reflexology involves stimulation of the feet, hands or ears in order to affect other parts of the body. The therapist applies pressure to specific points on the hands and feet, relieving stress and decreasing muscular tension in various organs and tissues, strengthening the body’s defenses against anxiety related afflictions.

REIKI

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• Reiki treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit. It creates many beneficial effects such as relaxation and feelings of peace, security, and well-being. Reiki is a simple, natural, and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement.
  Reiki taps into the unseen energy that flows through all living things. This life force is known by many names: Chi in Chinese, Prana in Sanskrit, Ti or Ki in Hawaiian, and Innate Intelligence in the field of chiropractic. Some refer to this energy as God-consciousness. This vital energy is directly connected to the quality of health, therefore, Reiki can be defined as spiritually guided life force energy. When this flow is disrupted it causes diminished function in one or more of the organs and tissues of the body.
  Reiki practitioners raise the vibratory level of the energy field in and around the body, clearing and healing the energy pathways, allowing the life force to flow in a healthy and natural way. Reiki is often done with the client fully clothed.
  [source: The International Center for Reiki Healing]

ESALEN

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• Esalen massage has roots in Swedish massage, oriental medicine, meditation, and gestalt psychology. Esalen approaches the person as a whole, seeking connection and integration rather than addressing disjointed parts of the body. The therapist is knowledgeable in strokes, muscles and bones, movement, and listening to the body as well as the client’s words. In Esalen massage the therapist responds to the signs of relaxation such as deepened breath, enhanced circulation, sighing, and fluttering of the eyelids. Slow flowing strokes create a sense of ease and then evolve into deeper tissue strokes to release tension. Each session is unique, tailored to the individual’s personal requests, comfort level, physical tension and release, and the therapists sense of intuition.
  [source: The Esalen Institute]

SPORTS MASSAGE

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• Sports massage is primarily for athletes who train regularly. It focuses on muscles relevant to the particular athletic activity and its intent is to warm muscles, increase circulation, and invigorate the athlete. Sports massage tends to be deeper, more vigorous, more intense, and more interactive than other types of massage and can include pre-event, post-event and maintenance techniques that promote greater athletic endurance and performance. Sports massage lessens chances of injury and reduces recovery time if injury has occurred.

PRENATAL OR PREGNANCY MASSAGE

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• Pregnancy massage focuses on special needs of mother-to-be as her body goes through dramatic physical changes. There are many physical and emotional stresses involved with carrying and growing a child inside a woman’s body. Alternative therapies such as massage are essential when a pregnant woman needs to avoid toxins such as over-the-counter and prescription medications.
  Massage during pregnancy enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue.
  Benefits of Prenatal Massage Include:

  • emotional support and nurturing touch

  • relaxation and decreased insomnia

  • stress relief on weight-bearing joints, such as ankles, lower back and pelvis

  • neck and back pain relief caused by muscle imbalance and weakness

  • assistance in maintaining proper posture

  • preparing the muscles used during childbirth

  • reduced swelling in hands and feet

  • lessened sciatic pain

  • fewer calf cramps
     

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MASSAGE THERAPY

• WHAT DO I WEAR WHEN GETTING A MASSAGE?
  Some people choose not to wear any clothes, while others prefer to leave on their undergarments. Usually, you are asked to undress to whatever point you are comfortable. The massage therapist will leave the room to allow you sufficient time to undress. You then get onto the massage table and cover yourself with a sheet or blanket. The massage therapist will use a method of draping and during the massage only the part of your body being worked on is uncovered. Private areas of your body are not uncovered or worked on. If you have any particular concerns or preferences about which parts of your body are exposed and/or worked on, you should discuss this with the therapist before the session. If you are uncomfortable with any aspect of the massage, you should inform the therapist immediately.
   

• DOES INSURANCE COVER MASSAGE THERAPY?
  Most insurance plans do cover massage therapy, depending on your policy. We will verify your insurance benefits with your insurance company when you come in for your appointment.
   

• WHY DOES THE MASSAGE THERAPIST TELL ME TO DRINK WATER AFTER GETTING A MASSAGE?
  Massage releases toxins from the muscles and fascia into the body. Water helps flush these toxins and waste chemicals out of your body. If you don’t drink water after a massage, you may feel very sore, or even nauseated. Find a cup or container that you like and carry it with you.
   

• HOW LONG ARE THE MASSAGE SESSIONS?
  Massage is generally given in increments of ½ hour, 45 min, 1 hour, and 1½ hours, with the most common being one hour. Sometimes longer work is necessary and this should be discussed with your massage therapist.