Table of Contents

  1. Kinesio Tape
  2. Swedish Massage
  3.  Deep Tissue Massage
  4. Shiatsu
  5. Lymphatic Drainage 
  6. To Tip or Not to Tip

 

 

1) Kinesio Taping

Kinesio Tape is a cotton elastic tape  with an acrylic adhesive which is used for treating athletic injuries and a variety of physical disorders.

 When setting up an appointment, mention that you want the Kinesio Tape Therapy so we can direct you to the proper therapist. We are one of the only spas in Pittsburgh to offer Kinesio Tape services.

Kinesio Tape Links


Pittsburgh Post Gazette Article

Kinesio Tape and Shoulder Range

Kinesio Tape effects on Flexion


 

2) Swedish Massage 

Deep tissue massage is a type of massage aimed at the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia, also called connective tissue. Deep tissue massage uses many of the same movements  Pioneered by Henri Peter Lin in 1812, Swedish massage is the foundation of Western Massage.  This includes sports medicine, deep tissue massage, and even aromatherapy massage.  Swedish massage uses firm but gentle pressure to promote relaxation, ease muscle tension, and create additional health benefits.

 

During Swedish massage, massage therapists use massage oils to facilitate smooth gliding strokes over the entire body.  Other classic Swedish massage moves include kneading, friction, stretching, and (sometimes) taping.   Pressure in a Swedish massage can range from light to firm and usually includes deeper work on areas of specific muscle tension.  For more intensive work and firmer pressure than a Swedish massage, we recommend a deep tissue massage. 

 

 

3) Deep Tissue Massage

 

Deep tissue massage is a type of massage aimed at the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia, also called connective tissue. Deep tissue massage uses many of the same movements and techniques as Swedish massage, but the pressure will generally be more intense. It is also a more focused type of massage, as the therapist works to release chronic muscle tension or knots (also known as "adhesion's." However, the best method for undoing chronic knots and tension built up over a lifetime is  to use an integrated program that includes exercise, posture work, relaxation techniques, and a regular program of massage.
While deep tissue is certainly valuable, you should be aware that there are many other styles of massage that can also produce profound release and realignment in the body. 

 

 

4) Shiatsu Massage 

 

Shiatsu massage is a traditional hands-on therapy which originated in Japan ( 指圧 Japanese from shi, meaning finger, and atsu, meaning pressure) . There are two main Shiatsu schools; one based on western anatomical and physiological theory and the other based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM.)  Shiatsu is regulated as a licensed medical therapy by the Japanese MInistry of Health, Labor, and Welfare and elsewhere by various governing bodies set up by Shiatsu practitioners. Shiatsu is an evolving form, and its various styles incorporate (to differing degrees) aspects of Japanese massage traditions, Chinese Medicine practice, and "Western" anatomy and physiology.

 

5) Lymphatic Drainage

Lymphatic Drainage drains waste and excess impurities from each part of the body while increasing the circulation of your body's white blood cells.  Lymphatic drainage helps to increase the flow of lymph fluid throughout your body by creating alternative passages.  This is a very specific form of gentle massage without lubrication.



6) To Tip or Not to Tip
We want all of our customers to know that Tipping is not mandatory but encouraged.  Massage is considered to be in the service industry, so the general 15-20% would apply to massage just like it would to a waiter or nail technician.  
It shows your appreciation for the massage therapist's work, and they appreciate it as well!