What is Clinical Massage Therapy?

What sets Clinical massage apart from the numerous other massage techniques is the fact that it, itself, is not a specific ‘technique’. Rather, the phrase ‘Clinical massage’ describes a comprehensive system, rather than a particular technique (though some are attempting to use the phrase to describe a specific ‘technique’). As a comprehensive system, Clinical massage is capable of integrating a variety of massage’s most effective techniques in the treatment of soft-tissue dysfunctions, pain and injuries. 


Four component parts characterize the system of Clinical massage: 

1) Clinical assessment.

2) Matching the physiology of the tissue injury with the physiological effects of treatment.

3) Treatment adaptability.

4) Understanding the rehabilitation protocol.

Clinical massage is a system made up of a variety of different techniques. Despite the difference in techniques there are several underlying principles that are essential to the system. The first is assessment and evaluation skills. When working with soft tissue pain and injury it is essential the practitioner be able to assess the nature of the condition and understand its physiological make-up. In order to determine if massage is appropriate, and what kind of massage, if any, should be done, the practitioner must have some method of systematic evaluation of the client’s condition.

Not only should the practitioner be familiar with the condition, but also with the most frequently used massage techniques. Therefore, the second component of the Clinical massage system is to match the physiology of the injury with the physiological effects of the treatment technique. There is no single massage modality that will effectively treat all of the diverse types of pain and injury conditions. Rather, in some situations a particular technique will be highly beneficial, yet when used for another condition it may be contraindicated. Therefore, the massage therapist must understand the physiological effects of the treatment that he/she chooses.

The third component of Clinical massage is treatment adaptability. Clearly, with the diversity of conditions, the practitioner should not rigidly adhere to one set of techniques. In addition, each client will provide a unique presentation of the pain or injury condition. As such, the practitioner will most effectively treat their client with a protocol that is individually suited to that person.

Finally, the Clinical massage system recommends understanding the rehabilitation protocol. Rehabilitation protocol is a phrase used to describe the most effective progression through the stages of soft tissue healing. It includes knowledge of proper tissue healing and injury prevention. While it is not appropriate for the massage therapist to prescribe a rehabilitation plan, the practitioner of Clinical massage often works in conjunction with other health professionals and it is important that he/she understand these rehabilitation factors.

Clinical massage is an exciting new approach to the treatment of numerous pain and injury conditions previously treated only with conventional methods. Providing a comprehensive system of treatment that incorporates a wide variety of massage treatment techniques, Clinical massage enables the practitioner to choose the most effective treatment for a particular condition. The Clinical massage practitioner is knowledgeable and skilled in their understanding of pain and injury conditions and massage treatment techniques. This combination of expertise provides for the most effective treatment of soft tissue pain and injury conditions using massage therapy. 

Clinical Massage Therapy & Preventive Care

Beyond pain relief, Clinical Massage Therapy is a valuable form of preventive care. Just as you eat healthy, exercise regularly, and take your vitamins to ward off illness and maintain a fit body, you should consider making frequent massage a part of your wellness lifestyle.

Utilizing Clinical Massage Therapies ability to release stress and tension in the body, to prevent injuries and illness, can keep you working, playing sports, working out, and all sorts of hobbies, longer. Why wait until the pain begins? Be proactive and start taking active steps to preventing pain.

Today we understand that stress can have a significant effect on not only your mental health, but your physical health as well. According to the Benson Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine, 60-90 % of all US medical visits are for stress related disorders including chronic pain, headaches, heart disease, hypertension and many more.

The Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine has conducted over 20 studies confirming that massage decreases cortisol (a stress derived hormone that negatively affects immune function and kills immune cells) and increases dopamine and serotonin (emotional wellness neurotransmitters.) Massage has also been shown to lower your heart rate and decrease your blood pressure. If you look at all these effects you have an effective, drug free, stress fighting tool that is 100% natural! 

Introductory Rates for first time clients:

60 Minute Session - $125
90 Minute Session - $200

24 hours notice is required to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Failure to cancel appointments at least 24 hours in advance or failure to show up for your appointment will result in a charge of 50% of the scheduled appointment fee which will be processed on the credit card retained on file to reserve appointment.