Stick with it

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Got an injury that’s sticking with you? Kinesio Tape will help you feel better so you can stick to your activities.

Traditional athletic taping has been around for years and used especially when a coach would tape a boxer’s hands or a runner’s ankle to support them during a burst of activity. The tape was rigid and uncomfortable to wear so was only left on for short periods of time. Recent improvements in the tape itself and the development of specific techniques of taping have brought this useful modality to the active general public.
 
  • What is Kinesio Taping?

It’s a therapeutic taping technique that permits full movement, provides support and allows the body to heal. Kinesio tape is made of 100% cotton on one side with a mild, hypoallergenic acrylic, heat-activated adhesive on the other. The tape is highly elastic to allow for many different types of application and will stay in place for 3-5 days through activity and showers.
 

  • How does it work?

The condition must be correctly assessed for the best results. The tape lifts the skin away from the muscle to decrease pressure on a damaged area and to allow for drainage and proper blood flow. Depending on the specific technique used, the tape can relax or contract a muscle, or stabilize a joint.
 

  • How is it applied?

First, clean the skin of oils, sweat or excess hair. Then, apply the tape over the stretched muscle. Tape from muscle origin to insertion to strengthen a weak muscle, usually in a chronic condition. In this application the tape facilitates muscle contraction. Tape from insertion to origin to relax a tight, overused muscle often in an acute condition. In this application the tape inhibits tension.
 

  • What is it good for?

Taping helps with a limitless array of injuries and some inflammatory conditions (because it facilitates lymph flow). It provides relief and support for anyone who has muscle soreness or joint pain. I have used Kinesio tape for plantar fasciitis, low back degenerative pain and shoulder weakness, but there are many, many other useful applications.
 

  • Where can I have Kinesio tape applied?

Many athletic trainers, medical doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists and some massage therapists offer applying kinesio tape as a service that layers nicely in with their work. Most often I will massage the area, clean it, stretch it and apply the tape to maintain the changes I have made during the session. An initial 30-minute session allows for assessment and taping at $40. Re-taping is $20 or I can incorporate it into your massage time and just charge you $5 for the tape.
 

  • How do I remove the tape?

Most people allow the tape to wear off but it can be easily removed with oil or an oily lotion. It’s safe for pediatrics to geriatrics and is well tolerated because it’s so light (roughly the thickness and weight of our skin) and is completely latex -free.

Call me to try Kinesio Taping as part of your pain relief plan.

Feel Better, Stay Well. Body Dialog Massage.

Aromatic Head Massage really helps with headaches!

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You may have read my blog last month about tips to stay clear of headaches. So many people suffer from headaches, which are often due to tension or anxiety and they may not

know how much massage can help. 40-50% of all headaches fall into this ‘tension’ category.
 
Here’s the skinny on a massage modality I am proficient in that will give you pain relief and a good night’s sleep.
 
Aromatic head massage is an ancient form of massage that originates in India where it is widely practiced. How can it help?

  • Entire focus is on the head, neck and shoulders where you need it most.
  • Techniques are designed to relax the large and small muscles. Releases trapped energy.
  • Allows your face to loosen so you are no longer clenching your jaw or frowning. Are you frowning right now?
  • Makes room for a flexible, positive mindset so you stress less and deal with tension better.
  • Relief from sinus pressure.
  • Your focus shifts to deeper, calmer breathing.
  • You will think more clearly as your mind stops obsessive repetition allowing you to find answers and solutions.
  • Creates opportunities to release pent up negative feelings and thoughts.
  • Better posture and better sleep!
  • Relief from eyestrain.
  • You don’t have to undress to be treated. Aromatic Head Massage is usually done seated and clothed.
  • Increased ability to express yourself more freely and spontaneously, through loosening your neck, the avenue of communication.

As an added benefit, your hair is massaged with essential oils good for beautiful hair; growth of the hair itself is stimulated.
 
Aromatic head massage often includes hot towels for the face, neck and shoulders to further reduce muscle tension and relax the whole body.
 
Oh my gosh, what are you waiting for? Aromatic Head Massage is available in 45-minute or 60-minute treatments, or as a 15-minute add-on to your massage, so schedule some time to refresh and renew right away.

Feel Better, Stay Well. Body Dialog Massage.