In an effort to further my training in more medical-oriented bodywork modalities, I have been pursuing my certification in Advanced Orthopedic Massage with James Waslaski. Now, after almost 6 months of hard work, I am happy to announce that I have achieved this certification.
So what is Advanced Orthopedic Massage?
Advanced Orthopedic Massage (AOM) is a multidisciplinary approach to chronic pain conditions outlined by world-renowned bodyworker James Waslaski. This approach uses a combination of structural integration techniques, deep myofascial techniques and the latest scar management techniques to address complicated conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or frozen shoulders (adhesive capsulitis) in a pain free manner. The techniques have been developed using the latest medical research in musculo-skeletal related conditions and fascia.
The techniques used in AOM are many of the myofascial techniques I have used for years. The difference lies in how we approach the injury. You probably have heard me say that I imagine you have one muscle and 600 or so compartments of that muscle. It is referred to as structural bodyworking. AOM adds a balancing element to that equation. When using AOM, we work to balance out the different compartments. For example, if you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), it is likely that the flexor muscles in your arm, the muscles that you use to flex your fingers and your wrist, are more developed than the extensor muscles. The extensor muscles are called the antagonist muscles (or more accurately muscle group) to the flexors. Restoring balance between the flexors and extensors would be the first step needed before we can efficiently address the tenosynovitis, adhesions and the other causes of CTS.
AOM is a more active or engaged style of bodywork. During the session, I use many joint movements and gentle muscle loading to help with scar tissue treatment. While this is always performed in a pain-free manner, it requires a greater participation on your part in the session than the traditional relaxation massage.
AOM results are truly impressive. It is particularly effective in treating frozen shoulders, thoracic outlet syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, piriformis (also known as ‘false sciatica’) syndrome, knee problems and plantar fasciitis. Typically, you should see significant results after a couple of sessions. Combined with some gentle stretching exercises, you will be amazed by the results we will get using AOM techniques.
You probably have noticed that I have been using some of these techniques in your session. I am creating a new session format for the more medical-oriented treatments. This will help me better understand your expectations for the session, prepare the self-care exercises for you and give you some additional information about your session that you can share with your other medical providers (ie: primary care provider, physical therapist, or chiropractor).
If you are wondering if Advanced Orthopedic Massage would work for you, feel free to call me or send me an email with your questions.
I am excited to announce that you can now follow me at Twitter.
If you don't know Twitter, it is a service that allow you to post short messages about what your status or mood is.
I will use Twitter to publish the availability I have for that particular day as well reminder of current promotions.
Check it out!
It is time! If you haven't voted yet, tomorrow is your last chance! Rain or shine!
To find the polling station closer to your home, click here.
After having voted, you can get a free cup of coffee at any Starbucks store.
Go Vote!
* the image I use here is from one of my favorite artist, Nikki McClure from Olympia. You can learn more about her work here.
Well... It is that time of the year again. Every Halloween for the past few years I have been the Gate Keeper at the Stoker Farm's Field of Screams corn maze. It is great fun! If you happen to be around Snohomish around Halloween, come experience the maze. You won't regret it!
Enjoy!
This morning NPR Morning Edition ran a piece on the higher rate of injuries in women athletes and the efforts of University of Cincinnati to look for a conclusive prevention training program.
The piece is a nice introduction to Sokolove's book I reviewed a couple of weeks ago. It is nice to see the issue gaining some traction with the media.
You can read or listen to the story at NPR.org.
Keep moving!
