Trigger Points & What We Do With Them

Trigger points are specific, sensitive areas within muscle tissue that can cause pain and discomfort both locally and in other parts of the body. These points are often referred to as "knots" and can develop as a result of muscle overuse, injury, poor posture, or stress. In massage therapy, trigger points are a critical focus because addressing them can alleviate pain, improve muscle function, and enhance overall well-being.

When trigger points form, they cause muscle fibres to tighten and restrict blood flow, leading to pain and stiffness. This can result in a limited range of motion and muscle weakness. People experiencing trigger points often feel deep, aching pain that may radiate to other areas, a phenomenon known as referred pain. For example, a trigger point in the shoulder might cause pain in the arm or neck. Identifying these points is essential in massage therapy to target and release the tension, promoting healing.

So, we’ll use specific techniques such as ischemic compression, deep tissue massage, and myofascial release to deactivate trigger points. By applying sustained pressure, we encourage blood flow to the affected area, which helps to relax the contracted muscle fibers and flush out accumulated toxins. This process reduces pain and restores mobility. The therapist may also guide clients through stretches or exercises to maintain muscle health and prevent the return of trigger points.

Beyond physical relief, resolving trigger points through massage therapy can improve posture and reduce the risk of further musculoskeletal problems. When muscles are free of tension, the body can move more naturally and efficiently. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like chronic pain, sports injuries, or repetitive strain injuries, as it aids in recovery and supports long-term functional improvement.

In conclusion, trigger points play a significant role in muscle pain and dysfunction, making their treatment an important aspect of massage therapy. By targeting these sensitive spots, massage therapists help reduce pain, improve muscle performance, and enhance overall quality of life. Regular massage therapy sessions can be an effective approach to managing trigger points and maintaining optimal muscle health.

Should I try Orthopaedic Cupping?

When the words “orthopedic cupping” comes to mind, most probably immediately think of the circular redness which is a result of blood being pulled into the area, and lasts for up to a week. What is cupping? What’s therapeutic about it, and should you give it a go?

The history of cupping

Cupping has origins in ancient Egyptian, Chinese, African and Middle Eastern cultures, being described as one of the oldest treatment interventions. It’s mentioned as early as c. 1550 BCE in the Ebers Papyrus, an ancient Egyptian medical text. This medical text contains seven hundred magical folk remedies and cures for numerous afflictions.

Cupping began with animal horns being hollowed out and used as cupping devices, especially for treatment for snake bites and boils. Cupping evolved over time into new materials such as bamboo, glass, bronze, plastic and our personal favourite, silicone.

What does cupping do?

Cupping is a treatment that works to heal the myofascia, which is the dense, tough, multi-layered connective tissue that surrounds and covers all your muscles and bones. It’s full of pain receptors, so when your muscles, tendons or ligaments are injured and sore, your myofascia will let your brain know about it.

Cupping therapy can affect tissues up to four inches deep; affecting blood vessels, fascia, muscles and scar tissue. It differs from the compressive action of massage therapy and creates the opposite effect – cupping decompresses the area by lifting the skin and layers of tissue underneath the skin, and the fascia, pulling it up into the cup. This creates space, releases trigger points and knots, stretches the tissues, improves blood circulation and allows for lymphatic drainage of toxins.

During a cupping treatment you will feel warmth and a pulling sensation which is your skin, fascia and underlying muscles being lifted, stretched and pulled into the cup, also affecting the fascia running just beyond the cup.

Benefits of cupping

Aids recovery from injury

Reduces symptoms of chronic pain.

Reduces muscle tension and discomfort.

Releases adhesions (muscles bound together via scar tissue), knots/ trigger points.

Increased joint range of motion.

Increased circulation and lymphatic drainage or detoxification.

Cupping is used by athletes and people from all walks of life recovering from injuries, sore muscles, cramping, tightness and muscle fatigue. Cupping can reduce chronic pain, improves joint mobility and quality of life.

Receive Orthopedic Cupping at Remedial Massage Queenstown

Here at Remedial Massage Queenstown we like to combine the benefits of massage therapy and orthopedic cupping into a session to access different layers of tissues in the body, relieving pain, stress and body tension in a variety of ways. When you book your next massage try the “add orthopedic cupping” option and give it a go!

Can Remedial Massage Make You Sick?

Remedial massage, sports massage, and deep tissue massage can sometimes make you feel like you have cold or flu-like symptoms afterwards. Feelings such as body aches, fatigue, dizziness and feeling “out of it” can be common. There could be a few reasons for this:

1.     You are already sick.

Massage, no matter what kind, increases lymphatic drainage throughout your body. Our lymphatic system is where we store germ fighting cells and where any germs and swelling exit our body. So, increasing the movement through this system can increase the rate at which germs are flushed out. If you are feeling somewhat sick before your massage and get sicker the next day, this is because we have stimulated your body’s germ fighting system. This is why we always recommend you stay home from a massage when you are sick. Not only can it make you feel worse, but you don’t really want to be passing any germs onto your massage therapist if at all possible!

2.     You have had an injury.

If you have pain from a muscle injury that “didn’t quite heal right,” you may have some scar tissue in your muscles. This happens when our muscle tissue is regrowing but doesn’t lay down in the direction of already existing muscle fibers. Think of it like a pile of toothpicks lying every which way on top of a larger pile of toothpicks that are perfectly lined up. During a deep tissue massage, this scar tissue can get broken up, causing inflammation. Our body’s response to this inflammation is to release inflammation fighting cells. When these are released in our body, we can feel fatigued, have sore muscles, or experience headache.

3.     You’re dehydrated.

When we are dehydrated, our blood vessels have a hard time eliminating metabolic waste from our cells. When getting a massage, the pressure of the massage therapists’ hands physically pushes cell and tissue waste back into the bloodstream. When this waste is suddenly back in your blood stream it can make you feel sick because your body must work overtime to eliminate this waste through your kidneys – this is another reason why drinking water is so important after massage.

4.     The pressure of the massage is too much for your body.

Massage therapists will communicate with you on what pressure feels good for your body. Some pain and discomfort are normal, but if you are struggling to breathe normally or are clenching your fists the whole time, the massage pressure is probably too much. If your body is tensing and resisting the massage therapists pressure the entire time, it can lead to microscopic damage in your muscle tissue, thus creating tissue waste that your body must remove.

So to conclude - stay at home if you’re sick and reschedule your massage as needed. Communicate effectively with your massage therapist about pressure so that it’s not causing unnecessary damage. Some minor soreness, fatigue and dizziness can be side effects for some people but luckily these are generally short lived and a normal response. You can assist with some aftercare after your massage such as rest, warm Epsom salt bath, heat therapy and ensuring you stay hydrated before and after your treatment!

Can Remedial Massage Help Sciatica?

Sciatic nerve pain trolling you?

Sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain, is very common. It is estimated that up to half of the adult world population will experience sciatic nerve pain at some point in their life.

This pain is caused by the sciatic nerve being pinched or restricted either it where it comes out of the spinal cord at the low back, or being pinched or restricted by any of the muscles that it moves through – low back muscles, glute muscles, hamstrings, calves, and even feet! You may feel pain down the whole length of the nerve, or just a part of it. It will most likely feel like a sharp or “zinging” pain, especially when the back of the leg is being stretched or you’re bending over.

Tight muscles are the number one culprit for sciatic nerve pain, which means massage is a great way to get that pain under control. Whether your muscles are tight because you took a spill on the mountain, over did it at the gym, or have been working at your desk too long, massage will help to relax these tight muscles surrounding the nerve, so that the nerve can move and glide through the muscles without restriction – and without pain!

Here at Remedial Massage Queenstown, our knowledgeable massage therapists will also recommend exercises and stretches that will keep your muscles feeling relaxed and to help prevent this pain from coming back in the future!

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BOOK HERE TO SCHEDULE YOUR SESSION WITH US.

What's Deep Tissue Massage?

Deep tissue massage vs. sports massage

Both deep tissue massage and sports massage increase blood flow, flush toxins out of the muscles, and cause a relaxation effect. So, which is right for you?

A deep tissue massage is good for those who have general or chronic pain, tightness, or fatigue. In this massage, deep and slow movements are used to get through all the layers of the tissue. There may be some uncomfortable areas or trigger points, but it won’t last long.

A sports massage is used for those who experience sports-related tightness or pain. Many various techniques are used to relax and realign muscle fibers. There may be more of a focus on knots or adhesions in the tissues. This massage is more suited for an individual with a specific pain or injury.

If you fit somewhere in between these two, you can also get a mixture of both, just talk to your massage therapist!

What's Remedial Massage?

What’s Remedial Massage?

Remedial massage therapy is a specialised form of massage that focuses on targeting specific areas of the body to alleviate pain, tension, and discomfort. Using a combination of hands-on techniques, manipulation, and deep tissue work, remedial massage therapists aim to identify the root cause of muscular imbalances and dysfunctions.

By treating the underlying issues, remedial massage therapy promotes the body's natural healing process and restores optimal functioning. Whether it's relieving chronic pain, rehabilitating injuries, or enhancing overall well-being, this therapeutic approach offers a holistic and personalised approach to address individual needs.

With its ability to alleviate physical discomfort and improve mobility, remedial massage therapy plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for numerous individuals.

Get the Relief You Deserve with Remedial Massage!

Are you tired of living with chronic pain, muscle tension, or stress-related discomfort? It's time to take control of your wellbeing and experience the transformative benefits of remedial massage. At Remedial Massage Queenstown, we are here to help you embark on a pain-free journey towards a healthier and happier you!

1. Targeted Pain Relief: Our skilled and experienced remedial massage therapists specialise in identifying the root causes of your pain and providing targeted relief. Whether you suffer from backaches, headaches, sports injuries, or muscular tension, our tailored massage techniques are designed to alleviate pain and promote lasting healing.

2. Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility: Tight muscles and restricted movement can hinder your daily activities and limit your quality of life. Through deep tissue manipulation and stretching, our remedial massage techniques can effectively improve your range of motion, allowing you to move freely and perform at your best, whether it's in your sports activities or everyday tasks.

3. Stress Reduction and Relaxation: The demands of modern life can leave you feeling overwhelmed and stressed. Our remedial massages incorporate relaxation techniques to promote deep relaxation, decrease anxiety, and enhance your overall mental well-being. By reducing your stress levels, you'll find yourself better equipped to face life's challenges with a refreshed mind and renewed energy.

4. Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation: Whether you're an athlete, a busy professional, or someone recovering from an accident, remedial massage is an invaluable tool for injury prevention and rehabilitation. By improving circulation, reducing scar tissue, and promoting faster recovery, our massages can accelerate your healing process, preventing future injuries, and helping you regain optimal physical function.

5. Holistic Approach to Wellness: At Remedial Massage Queenstown, we understand that your well-being is more than just the absence of pain. That's why we take a holistic approach in our treatments, addressing your physical, mental, and emotional needs. Our therapists provide personalised care, offering advice on posture, exercise, and lifestyle modifications to help you maintain your newfound vitality long after your massage session.

Invest in Yourself Today!

Don't let chronic pain or stress hold you back from living your best life. Choose to invest in yourself and experience the rejuvenating power of remedial massage at Remedial Massage Queenstown. Contact us now to book your session and take the first step towards a pain-free, healthier, and more vibrant you!