Therapeutic Massage

Therapeutic massage* is a vital component of osteopathic treatment in the UK, often employed alongside other manual techniques like manipulation and mobilization. It involves applying pressure and manipulating the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

The primary objectives of therapeutic massage within osteopathic treatment are:

• Pain relief: By reducing muscle tension and enhancing blood flow to the affected area.

• Improved mobility: By releasing restrictions in soft tissues and increasing joint range of motion.

• Tissue healing: By promoting tissue repair and regeneration.

• Stress reduction: By inducing relaxation and alleviating anxiety.

Specific techniques utilised in therapeutic massage within osteopathic treatment can include:

• Cross-fibre tissue massage: Focusing on the deeper layers of muscle tissue to address chronic tension and adhesions.

• Myofascial release: Targeting connective tissue (fascia) to release restrictions and improve flexibility.

• Trigger point therapy: Identifying and treating areas of hyperirritability in muscles (trigger points).

• Muscle energy technique: Tailored to the needs of athletes to enhance performance and recovery or the office worker who struggles with tightness.

Osteopaths in the UK utilise their extensive knowledge of the body's structure and function to tailor therapeutic massage treatments to address specific patient requirements. They may combine massage with other techniques, such as manipulation, to achieve optimal outcomes.

By incorporating therapeutic massage into their practice, osteopaths can provide a comprehensive approach to pain management, injury rehabilitation, and overall well-being.

*Please note that therapeutic massage and its associated techniques are an additional service offered primarily to osteopathy patients as part of their rehabilitation, posture correction, rehabilitation exercises, and functional movement training or injury prevention plans. However, there are a few exceptions where they can be stand-alone as non-patients so please enquire if there are slots available as these are limited.

Benefits, Risks, and Alternatives of Therapeutic Massage

Benefits of Therapeutic Massage

• Pain relief: Reduces muscle tension, improves blood flow, and can alleviate pain associated with various conditions.

• Improved mobility: Releases restrictions in soft tissues, increasing joint range of motion and flexibility.

• Stress reduction: Promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and can improve overall well-being.

• Enhanced healing: Promotes tissue repair and regeneration, aiding in recovery from injuries or surgeries.

• Improved circulation: Increases blood flow, which can help deliver nutrients and oxygen to tissues.

Potential Risks of Therapeutic Massage

While generally safe, therapeutic massage can have some potential risks:

• Aggravation of conditions: In some cases, massage can aggravate underlying conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis and you are on blood thinners for other reasons. This is why you need to inform your osteopath if you have any medical conditions or taking any sort of medications.

• Side effects: Some people may experience soreness or bruising after a massage.

• Inadequate training: It's essential to choose a qualified therapist to ensure proper technique and avoid potential harm.

Alternatives to Therapeutic Massage

• Physical therapy: A rehabilitative approach that uses exercises and modalities to improve function and reduce pain.

• Stretching: routines after exercise or on its own, or mixed with yoga.

• Acupuncture: A traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body.

• Heat therapy: Applying heat to the affected area to relax muscles and reduce pain.

• Cold therapy: Applying cold to the affected area to reduce inflammation and numb pain.

New client appointment: £70 (OAP/disability* discount £50)

Follow up appointments: £50 (OAP/disability* discount £35)

*OAP and Disability discounts are applied only on demonstration of one of the following valid documents:

-Proof of age ID with a photo on it.

-Medical letter of assessment. The assessment should clearly outline the nature and severity of your disability.

-Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Award.

-A Blue Badge (or equivalent parking permit) can be used as evidence of a mobility disability.

-For individuals with disabilities that affect their education, these documents can be used as evidence: Statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) or Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

-If you receive support through the Access to Work scheme, this can be used as evidence of your disability.