Discover the healthy benefits these services can bring to your life and help you enjoy life with pain free.
|
|
|
What is trigger point therapy?
Many people suffer from pain and physical problems. Very few people know that these problems are often related to trigger points. Understanding and treating Trigger Points helps lessen pain and improve your overall health. So what is a Trigger Point? A Trigger point is a small muscle contraction which can be felt with finger tips and it feels like a small knot. Touching this Trigger Point can be very painful. Trigger Points can be found in every muscle of our body. Multiple Trigger Points can be found on both sides of the body at the same time. Both sides are affected equally.
These Trigger Points keep the muscles tight and weak, limiting the muscles of any range of motion .A Trigger point can frequently cause pain or can cause no pain at all until the muscles are touched .
When a Trigger Point is formed in a muscle, the pain can be sent to different areas of the body. This phenomena is called referral pain. It can be difficult to locate, define or treat a referral pain in muscles. Luckily, referral pain falls in different patterns that is well documented .
Now, let's take a closer look at a Trigger Point. A Trigger Point is formed in a tight band. The tight taut band in the muscle is usually felt like a cord and mistaken for a tendon. It can be felt with finger tips. It's location is often superficial and it's size can be from a peanut to a pea.
Now if we look deep into a muscle, we can find the fibers that form that muscle. The fibers lines represent the Sarcomere. The Sarcomere acts like a small band that is contracted to create movement. Sarcomeres can be over-stimulated and unable to release their contracted state.
Some nodes of the Sarcomere show a segment of fibers that become shorter and tighter because of this stimulation. Other segments of the Sarcomere become stretched by this tension showing a great distance between the Sarcomeres.
Together, multiple Sarcomere nodes form the Trigger Points. The stretched segment of the fibers give a tightness of the band where the Trigger Points are formed .
When the Sarcomeres are over-stretched and the Trigger Points are formed, contraction of the muscles are prevented and blood flow stops passing through affected areas resulting in oxygen starvation and accumulation of waste. This irritates the Trigger Points and starts to send pain signals to the brain. In return, the brain stimulates you to stop using these muscles, which shortens the muscles and causes more pain.
The Trigger Points won't release without a proper treatment. The most effective way to treat a tight muscle is Shiatsu Therapy. Your Shiatsu Therapist will apply direct acupressure to the Trigger Points formed in the muscles to reduce tension. They will massage and perform a deep stroke across the Trigger Points. By pressing those Trigger Points formed by your muscles, acupressure allows blood flow to clean the waste and nourish the muscle fibers. When acupressure is made over the Trigger Points using deep pressure, fresh blood immediately flows to the effected muscle, bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients.
When your therapist applies acupressure on your sore muscles, it stimulates muscle tissue to release endorphins and promote circulation to achieve optimal pain relief, tension relief, and relaxation. The bigger your muscles the more pressure should be applied. Not sure about the amount of pressure? Not to worry. Your Therapist will adjust the pressure according to your comfort.
You may feel tense or sore at first but the soreness should decrease within minutes. You may also feel a mild pulsing sensation or pain as your muscles relax; this is normal and it usually goes away within a few hours.
When we feel pain in our muscles, it is normally caused by lack of blood circulation to the area. When the blood circulation is reduced or limited to the area oxygen flow to the area is reduced. That means that tissues or cells do not get enough energy or nutrients and the nerve endings in that area will let us know.
It is very important to drink water before and after every session.
We often think of stress as an adult affliction; but the truth is that even very young children experience stress and anxiety. Children have their own exposure to stress, which can come from school, family, technology or even playtime with their toys – all are facts of life that most young people must learn to cope with as they start to grow up. This stress can cause an imbalance in the immune system and hormonal imbalances as well. Shiatsu Massage therapy or any other massages can act as a stress reliever for children, even when they have passed the stage of infancy. Massage practiced regularly can help a child reduce stress, which in turn may help a child to sleep better
These Trigger Points keep the muscles tight and weak, limiting the muscles of any range of motion .A Trigger point can frequently cause pain or can cause no pain at all until the muscles are touched .
When a Trigger Point is formed in a muscle, the pain can be sent to different areas of the body. This phenomena is called referral pain. It can be difficult to locate, define or treat a referral pain in muscles. Luckily, referral pain falls in different patterns that is well documented .
Now, let's take a closer look at a Trigger Point. A Trigger Point is formed in a tight band. The tight taut band in the muscle is usually felt like a cord and mistaken for a tendon. It can be felt with finger tips. It's location is often superficial and it's size can be from a peanut to a pea.
Now if we look deep into a muscle, we can find the fibers that form that muscle. The fibers lines represent the Sarcomere. The Sarcomere acts like a small band that is contracted to create movement. Sarcomeres can be over-stimulated and unable to release their contracted state.
Some nodes of the Sarcomere show a segment of fibers that become shorter and tighter because of this stimulation. Other segments of the Sarcomere become stretched by this tension showing a great distance between the Sarcomeres.
Together, multiple Sarcomere nodes form the Trigger Points. The stretched segment of the fibers give a tightness of the band where the Trigger Points are formed .
When the Sarcomeres are over-stretched and the Trigger Points are formed, contraction of the muscles are prevented and blood flow stops passing through affected areas resulting in oxygen starvation and accumulation of waste. This irritates the Trigger Points and starts to send pain signals to the brain. In return, the brain stimulates you to stop using these muscles, which shortens the muscles and causes more pain.
The Trigger Points won't release without a proper treatment. The most effective way to treat a tight muscle is Shiatsu Therapy. Your Shiatsu Therapist will apply direct acupressure to the Trigger Points formed in the muscles to reduce tension. They will massage and perform a deep stroke across the Trigger Points. By pressing those Trigger Points formed by your muscles, acupressure allows blood flow to clean the waste and nourish the muscle fibers. When acupressure is made over the Trigger Points using deep pressure, fresh blood immediately flows to the effected muscle, bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients.
When your therapist applies acupressure on your sore muscles, it stimulates muscle tissue to release endorphins and promote circulation to achieve optimal pain relief, tension relief, and relaxation. The bigger your muscles the more pressure should be applied. Not sure about the amount of pressure? Not to worry. Your Therapist will adjust the pressure according to your comfort.
You may feel tense or sore at first but the soreness should decrease within minutes. You may also feel a mild pulsing sensation or pain as your muscles relax; this is normal and it usually goes away within a few hours.
When we feel pain in our muscles, it is normally caused by lack of blood circulation to the area. When the blood circulation is reduced or limited to the area oxygen flow to the area is reduced. That means that tissues or cells do not get enough energy or nutrients and the nerve endings in that area will let us know.
It is very important to drink water before and after every session.
We often think of stress as an adult affliction; but the truth is that even very young children experience stress and anxiety. Children have their own exposure to stress, which can come from school, family, technology or even playtime with their toys – all are facts of life that most young people must learn to cope with as they start to grow up. This stress can cause an imbalance in the immune system and hormonal imbalances as well. Shiatsu Massage therapy or any other massages can act as a stress reliever for children, even when they have passed the stage of infancy. Massage practiced regularly can help a child reduce stress, which in turn may help a child to sleep better
Frequently asked questions and answers about shiatsu
What should I wear when I am ready for my shiatsu treatment ?
Please wear soft, loose cotton garments such as exercise or yoga clothing (No oil is used except for Cupping Therapy) .
Can you do shiatsu massage on a table?
Yes, I do Shiatsu massage on a massage table. Please let me know what your physical conditions and your needs are, when making your appointment for your first shiatsu treatment .
Is Shiatsu Massage deep body work?
Yes, Often clients say that shiatsu massage is similar deep tissue massage.
Is Shiatsu Massage painful?
Shiatsu massage does not have to be painful. If you have never had a massage before and you are trying shiatsu massage for the first time, your body may be releasing toxins and energy may be flowing into areas that have been lacking stimulation. This can cause a surge of energy and feelings that are new and this does not have to be painful. Drink plenty of water after your shiatsu massage and help facilitate the release and balance of your energy flow.
Do I have to be ill to receive Shiatsu?
No, People can receive Shiatsu purely for relaxation and enjoyment. Regular treatments may help to keep the body in harmony and ward off ill-health.
Can I receive Shiatsu whilst on medication?
Yes, Your practitioner will ask whether you are currently taking medication and take details of any medical conditions you are suffering from.
I’m pregnant – can I still receive Shiatsu?
Yes, Shiatsu is safe and supportive during and after pregnancy.
Can Shiatsu help with ongoing or incurable conditions?
Yes, Shiatsu can offer support and can often help to moderate or manage symptoms even if the problem will never really go away. An increased sense of well being due to Shiatsu may boost tolerance levels in the receiver, helping them to deal with the symptoms more easily.
I cannot lie on the floor. Can I still have Shiatsu?
Yes, It is possible to receive Shiatsu in a chair, lying on a treatment couch, in a wheelchair and a massage table .
How does Shiatsu diagnosis work?
Diagnosis plays a central role in Shiatsu, but it is framed in terms of oriental medicine (Ki, elements, meridians, etc.) rather than Western physiology and pathology. A Shiatsu practitioner may be able to tell you that you have, say, a Water energy imbalance or an Earth energy imbalance, but not that you have diabetes or high cholesterol. Shiatsu diagnosis is holistic rather than analytical, taking into account a wide range of clues based on what the client says, observation of behavior patterns and physical appearance, and touch. Many practitioners begin a session with gentle palpation (i.e. diagnostic touch) of the abdominal region. This region, called the Hara in Japanese, is especially important in Shiatsu diagnosis because it is central, soft and relatively unprotected, so that subtle imbalances often reveal themselves more easily here.
How does Shiatsu treatment work?
Based on the initial diagnosis and on physical and visual feedback gained during the session, the practitioner will seek to even out the perceived energy imbalances through pressure on the meridians, probably in conjunction with other techniques such as rocking, stretches and joint rotations. As with diagnosis, Shiatsu treatment is holistic, with the practitioner working on the whole body rather than focusing on the area where symptoms are most obvious. Shiatsu works best if the client is as relaxed and comfortable as possible, so you should close your eyes, relax your muscles (the practitioner will do all the work if movement is required) and refrain from speaking unless it's really necessary. But let the practitioner know the moment you feel any discomfort or your body will start to tense up and the benefit of the session will be lost.
Is Shiatsu covered by Insurance?
Some private insurers do offer coverage for shiatsu. We suggest that a claimant check with their private insurance plan or extended health care coverage first to see if they offer this coverage.
Is Shiatsu massage?
Shiatsu has some features in common with European-style massage and other forms of bodywork in that the use of physical pressure and stretches serves to reduce muscular tension and loosen stiff joints. However, unlike massage, the receiver remains clothed during the treatment and the principal aim of Shiatsu is not to work on localized muscles and joints, but on the overall energy system of the client. This is the big difference between Shiatsu and other physical therapies. A Shiatsu practitioner working on a shoulder joint, for example, will not just be focusing on the joint but on the pattern of energy throughout the client's body.
Is Shiatsu healing?
It is more accurate to say that Shiatsu aids healing than that Shiatsu heals. The aim is to assist the body's natural healing process by encouraging the client's energy to move into a more balanced state. A practitioner's touch can enable each of us to contact our own abilities for self-healing. Shiatsu is different from the ‘laying on of hands’, spiritual healing or Reiki, where healing energy is believed to be ‘channeled’ through the practitioner to the client.
Can Shiatsu do any harm?
By the nature of Shiatsu, it is almost impossible for it to have harmful effects. The aim is to shift energy around the body in such a way as to relieve areas of tension and enliven weak areas. This is effectively a collaboration between the practitioner and the client's body, which will instinctively want to do the same thing, but may need a little help to get started. Occasionally a new patient may have healing reactions after the first few sessions. These occur when toxins have been released during the treatment, and as these work out through the body there may be symptoms such as headache, stiffness, stomach upsets or diarrhea, desire to urinate frequently, or lethargy. Such symptoms are transitory and soon pass, usually in 12 hours at most. Drinking plenty of spring water and resting will help, as well as asking the practitioner for advice and reassurance.Emotional releases may take longer to work through, and indeed, over the course of a number of treatments, deep-seated emotional patterns or memories involving past emotions may be uncovered. These can have profound effects on the patient's life. In such cases, extra contact between sessions may be necessary to talk through the reactions to treatment.
Is Shiatsu complementary or alternative?
Shiatsu is complementary to mainstream Western medicine, not an alternative to it. Treatment will be given according to Oriental diagnosis, though it is always important that the modern Western diagnosis is confirmed and considered as well. Both Shiatsu and Western medicine have important roles to play.
How can I integrate Shiatsu with self-development?
A unique feature of Shiatsu is that it can be viewed as self-development as well as therapy. Either as a client or a practitioner you learn more about the way your body works, and how intimately your physical health is linked to thoughts and feelings. With time, you will find you become more sensitive to subtle changes in yourself, and instinctively learn to compensate for imbalances as soon as they show themselves. Many people find that Shiatsu combines well with other forms of self-development such as yoga or meditation, and particularly those like Aikido, Qigong and Tai Chi which are aimed at developing awareness of Ki energy.
If you’re interested in learning more about shiatsu as well as Trigger Points Therapy techniques,or if you have more questions, I will be more than happy to help.
Please wear soft, loose cotton garments such as exercise or yoga clothing (No oil is used except for Cupping Therapy) .
Can you do shiatsu massage on a table?
Yes, I do Shiatsu massage on a massage table. Please let me know what your physical conditions and your needs are, when making your appointment for your first shiatsu treatment .
Is Shiatsu Massage deep body work?
Yes, Often clients say that shiatsu massage is similar deep tissue massage.
Is Shiatsu Massage painful?
Shiatsu massage does not have to be painful. If you have never had a massage before and you are trying shiatsu massage for the first time, your body may be releasing toxins and energy may be flowing into areas that have been lacking stimulation. This can cause a surge of energy and feelings that are new and this does not have to be painful. Drink plenty of water after your shiatsu massage and help facilitate the release and balance of your energy flow.
Do I have to be ill to receive Shiatsu?
No, People can receive Shiatsu purely for relaxation and enjoyment. Regular treatments may help to keep the body in harmony and ward off ill-health.
Can I receive Shiatsu whilst on medication?
Yes, Your practitioner will ask whether you are currently taking medication and take details of any medical conditions you are suffering from.
I’m pregnant – can I still receive Shiatsu?
Yes, Shiatsu is safe and supportive during and after pregnancy.
Can Shiatsu help with ongoing or incurable conditions?
Yes, Shiatsu can offer support and can often help to moderate or manage symptoms even if the problem will never really go away. An increased sense of well being due to Shiatsu may boost tolerance levels in the receiver, helping them to deal with the symptoms more easily.
I cannot lie on the floor. Can I still have Shiatsu?
Yes, It is possible to receive Shiatsu in a chair, lying on a treatment couch, in a wheelchair and a massage table .
How does Shiatsu diagnosis work?
Diagnosis plays a central role in Shiatsu, but it is framed in terms of oriental medicine (Ki, elements, meridians, etc.) rather than Western physiology and pathology. A Shiatsu practitioner may be able to tell you that you have, say, a Water energy imbalance or an Earth energy imbalance, but not that you have diabetes or high cholesterol. Shiatsu diagnosis is holistic rather than analytical, taking into account a wide range of clues based on what the client says, observation of behavior patterns and physical appearance, and touch. Many practitioners begin a session with gentle palpation (i.e. diagnostic touch) of the abdominal region. This region, called the Hara in Japanese, is especially important in Shiatsu diagnosis because it is central, soft and relatively unprotected, so that subtle imbalances often reveal themselves more easily here.
How does Shiatsu treatment work?
Based on the initial diagnosis and on physical and visual feedback gained during the session, the practitioner will seek to even out the perceived energy imbalances through pressure on the meridians, probably in conjunction with other techniques such as rocking, stretches and joint rotations. As with diagnosis, Shiatsu treatment is holistic, with the practitioner working on the whole body rather than focusing on the area where symptoms are most obvious. Shiatsu works best if the client is as relaxed and comfortable as possible, so you should close your eyes, relax your muscles (the practitioner will do all the work if movement is required) and refrain from speaking unless it's really necessary. But let the practitioner know the moment you feel any discomfort or your body will start to tense up and the benefit of the session will be lost.
Is Shiatsu covered by Insurance?
Some private insurers do offer coverage for shiatsu. We suggest that a claimant check with their private insurance plan or extended health care coverage first to see if they offer this coverage.
Is Shiatsu massage?
Shiatsu has some features in common with European-style massage and other forms of bodywork in that the use of physical pressure and stretches serves to reduce muscular tension and loosen stiff joints. However, unlike massage, the receiver remains clothed during the treatment and the principal aim of Shiatsu is not to work on localized muscles and joints, but on the overall energy system of the client. This is the big difference between Shiatsu and other physical therapies. A Shiatsu practitioner working on a shoulder joint, for example, will not just be focusing on the joint but on the pattern of energy throughout the client's body.
Is Shiatsu healing?
It is more accurate to say that Shiatsu aids healing than that Shiatsu heals. The aim is to assist the body's natural healing process by encouraging the client's energy to move into a more balanced state. A practitioner's touch can enable each of us to contact our own abilities for self-healing. Shiatsu is different from the ‘laying on of hands’, spiritual healing or Reiki, where healing energy is believed to be ‘channeled’ through the practitioner to the client.
Can Shiatsu do any harm?
By the nature of Shiatsu, it is almost impossible for it to have harmful effects. The aim is to shift energy around the body in such a way as to relieve areas of tension and enliven weak areas. This is effectively a collaboration between the practitioner and the client's body, which will instinctively want to do the same thing, but may need a little help to get started. Occasionally a new patient may have healing reactions after the first few sessions. These occur when toxins have been released during the treatment, and as these work out through the body there may be symptoms such as headache, stiffness, stomach upsets or diarrhea, desire to urinate frequently, or lethargy. Such symptoms are transitory and soon pass, usually in 12 hours at most. Drinking plenty of spring water and resting will help, as well as asking the practitioner for advice and reassurance.Emotional releases may take longer to work through, and indeed, over the course of a number of treatments, deep-seated emotional patterns or memories involving past emotions may be uncovered. These can have profound effects on the patient's life. In such cases, extra contact between sessions may be necessary to talk through the reactions to treatment.
Is Shiatsu complementary or alternative?
Shiatsu is complementary to mainstream Western medicine, not an alternative to it. Treatment will be given according to Oriental diagnosis, though it is always important that the modern Western diagnosis is confirmed and considered as well. Both Shiatsu and Western medicine have important roles to play.
How can I integrate Shiatsu with self-development?
A unique feature of Shiatsu is that it can be viewed as self-development as well as therapy. Either as a client or a practitioner you learn more about the way your body works, and how intimately your physical health is linked to thoughts and feelings. With time, you will find you become more sensitive to subtle changes in yourself, and instinctively learn to compensate for imbalances as soon as they show themselves. Many people find that Shiatsu combines well with other forms of self-development such as yoga or meditation, and particularly those like Aikido, Qigong and Tai Chi which are aimed at developing awareness of Ki energy.
If you’re interested in learning more about shiatsu as well as Trigger Points Therapy techniques,or if you have more questions, I will be more than happy to help.
