Services

Cupping Therapy – Created and originally used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and involves the use of pressurized cups, both active (gliding over specific areas of the body) and passive (stationary), to remove stagnation and encourage the flow of Ki (Qi/Chi) in the body. In my practice, I often use cupping to facilitate myofascial release called myofascial cupping therapy. Physiological effects and benefits include: relief from pain and inflammation, release of deep muscular adhesions and scar tissue, increased blood flow, increased range of motion in a restricted area to promote normalization of soft-tissue injury.  

IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization) – May also be called ASTYM, Gua Sha, Coining, Spooning, or Graston – This therapy involves the use of special instruments and techniques on soft-tissue surrounding a specific injury to promote healing. 

Between the layers of muscle, skin, and bone, there are layers of fibrous connective tissue called fascia, which primarily consists of collagen fibers which are designed to stabilize and allow flexibility of tissues such as muscles and ligaments. When injury occurs, fibroblasts lay down more collagen and increase the density of the fibers, creating adhesions or scar tissue. This in turn creates limited ROM (range of motion) of the muscles, joints, and connective tissues surrounding the area of injury. IASTM can help loosen and release fascial adhesions. The tools are used to stretch, pull, and release fascial tissues which promote the movement of blood through capillary beds and the stimulation of neurologic pathways and reflexes, which affect muscle tone and mobility. Through mechanical stimulation, there is an increase in activity in cells such as fibroblasts, macrophages, and growth factors, and is proven to stimulate the body’s own healing response and promote the normalization of soft tissue. 

Hot Stone – Adding hot stone to your session can be incredibly beneficial. The heat of the stone has the ability to deeply relax the central nervous system, while simultaneously softening the first several layers of muscle and connective tissue, allowing for some of the benefits of deep tissue (and relaxation) massage without the potential discomfort of deep pressure. Hot stones are great for easing stress, anxiety, and insomnia, while promoting pain relief and increased flexibility. Hot stone massage provides relief from pain associated with fibromyalgia, arthritis, and chronic pain conditions. 

Face Massage & TMJ –  I use all organic, non-comedogenic and hypo-allergenic face friendly cream or oil to work and uplift the muscles of the face and jaw.  A “mechanical face-lift” is great to smooth out fine lines and release tension in and around the face. TMJ treatments may be performed both inner and outer-orally to treat muscles and connective tissue effected by TMJ syndrome, a condition caused by tension of the jaw and/or teeth grinding.