Massage Therapies
We offer deep tissue massage and manual lymphatic drainage. Please see our Chinese Bodyworks page for energetic treatments.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue Massage is a versatile therapeutic tool useful for a wide range of conditions primarily related to musculoskeletal health and athletic performance.
It can benefit recreational, novice and professional athletes and anyone experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort. We often see patients engaged in repetitive and strenuous activity during leisure time or associated with a physical occupation. Sedentary workers often present with postural issues.
Used as both a rehabilitative therapy and in maintenance, techniques are stimulatory or calming and of different depths depending on diagnosis, patient preference, treatment intent and timing.
Deep techniques warm the muscles and mobilise the superficial and deep fascia to increase flexibility. They help break down cross-bridges formed at the site of injuries or surgeries or strain patterns developed due to sustained postures. Lighter techniques are used to aid recovery and encourage the removal of metabolic wastes. Maintenance treatment can act in injury prevention and benefit peak performance.
Our treatments may include the use of essential oils, arnica or balms containing camphor or capsaicin. These are selected according to treatment intent, and in line with patient preference, for their warming, cooling and anti-inflammatory properties.
Jane holds the ITEC Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage Therapy.
Benefits Of Deep Tissue Massage
We specialise in musculoskeletal health and the diagnosis and treatment of painful conditions.
While often associated with gym-goers, deep tissue massage can benefit anyone experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort with a number of benefits for function and wellbeing.
- Muscular tension & stiffness
- Overuse injuries
- Postural issues
- Headache & migraines
- Return to sports or usual activity
- Improved flexibility & range of motion
- Enhanced performance
- Faster post-activity recovery
Jane holds the ITEC Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage Therapy.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Lymphatic drainage is a treatment that aids the removal of excess fluid from the tissues. It involves very light touch to non-oiled skin and slow, rhythmical pumping techniques that encourage the return of lymph to the circulation.
Lymph travels from the extremities towards the heart, returning to the circulation via ducts which dive down over the collar bones. Drainage always starts here, using the principle of clearance. If the exit is compromised, drainage is compromised. The pathway is unable to cope with fluid load from the site of the swelling and it falls back down under the influence of gravity. We therefore work backwards to the site of the problem, monitoring fluid movement and clearing upwards as we go. The gentle nature of this treatment can make it a relaxing therapeutic experience.
How Manual Lymphatic Drainage Can Help
Manual lymphatic drainage is useful in alleviating swelling associated with a number of complaints. It may also be used where lymph nodes have been removed or compromised as part of cancer treatment or obstructive disease.
Jane is trained in the Vodder method, considered the gold standard for manual lymphatic drainage in the UK.
- Injuries including sprains & strains
- Lymphoedema
- Venous insufficiency
- Pregnancy
- Post-surgery