Modalities that Complement Massage Therapy
For the purposes of this blog I will only be defining a few of the most popular types of stretching and hydrotherapy modalities to complement massage therapy. There are several other types of advanced stretching and hydrotherapy modalities that are used by healthcare professionals that require another person or are considered advanced for use.
Static Stretching: This is where the muscle is lengthened and held in a comfortable position for a set amount of time. It is best to hold these stretches for thirty to forty five seconds. This is the most commonly used stretch.
Passive Stretching: A passive stretch is achieved by an outside force, for example your massage therapist lengthening a muscle and is held in that position for a set period of time, mainly just under one minute. Keep in mind that a stretch can be held for up to five minutes if you have the time.
Dynamic Stretching: Is mainly used by advanced participants and is usually seen at sports events. This is where the action is performed in a comfortable range of motion several times, generally 8-12 repetitions. This type of stretching is only recommended for the advanced level athlete and can be harmful if you are not conditioned for it.
With out getting too technical there is another advanced stretch used quite often by Massage Therapists. It uses your own strength and force to help achieve lengthening of muscles and increasing range of motion. These stretches are call PNF (Peripheral Neuromuscular Facilitation) stretches. Ask your therapist to apply this type of stretch during your next visit. PNF stretching should only be applied by a registered professional to avoid muscle a strain.
Written by: Domenic Jason Falvo, RMT, Hand & Stone Barrie
Domenic has been practicing massage therapy for over 18 years in all types of clinic and spa environments. Having done so he has acquired and abundance of therapeutic skill sets incorporating deep tissue massage, shiatsu, acupressure, advanced joint mobilizations, remedial exercise and hydrotherapy into the ideally seasoned massage therapy experience. Domenic also has training in clinical acupuncture, progressive facial manipulation and reflexology that is also fused into his treatment.
Domenic prefers to focus on the cause of underlying issues rather than treating the symptoms alone, which is proven more effective in the long run for client health. Although treating all types of acute and chronic injuries is Domenic’s main focus, he is seamlessly able to perform general relaxation massage with ease.