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Shiatsu and Acupressure are
systems of finger-pressure massage, based on Oriental healing
concepts, which treat special points along "meridians," the
invisible channels of energy flow in the body. Energy blocked along
these meridians can cause physical discomfort, so the aim is to
release the blockage and re-balance the energy flow. They can be
used for the full body or for specific areas of the body.
Sports Massage Therapy is
classified into three main categories: maintenance, event, and
rehabilitation. Maintenance massage is a regular program of massage
to help the athlete reach optimal performance through injury-free
training. Event massage takes place before, during and/or after
competition to supplement an athlete’s warm-up, readying the athlete
for top performance, and/or to reduce the muscle spasms and
metabolic build-up that occurs with vigorous exercise. Such
techniques enhance the body’s recovery process, improving the
athletes return to high-level training and competition, and reducing
the risk of injury. Rehabilitation massage techniques are effective
in the management of both acute and chronic injuries.
Reflexology (zone
therapy) is organized around a system of points on the hands and
feet that are thought to correspond, or "reflex," to all areas of
the body. Though the massage is specific to an area, it is intended
to affect the whole body.
Trigger Point Therapy (also known
as Myotherapy or Neuromuscular Therapy) applies concentrated finger
pressure to "trigger points" (painful irritated areas in muscles) to
break cycles of spasm and pain.
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