Can Massage Help With Circulation?

On June 12, 2023   /   Massage Therapy   /   Leave a comment
Can Massage Help With Circulation?

Good circulation can ensure that your body is functioning efficiently, and massage can play an active role in improving your circulation. In this blog post, we will discuss how massage can help in promoting better blood flow in your body and how it can help in maintaining optimal health.

Contact All Body Kneads today for an appointment and get your blood flowing! Call 517-898-2899 or book online.

Massage can stimulate blood flow

Massage is known to be one of the most effective methods for increasing blood circulation. When a massage therapist applies pressure to your muscles, it can stimulate the blood vessels, which can improve blood flow. The pressure applied during a massage can help in making any blockages or constrictions disappear, which can help in improving the flow of blood from the heart and back. This improved blood flow can ensure that your vital organs get an adequate supply of blood and oxygen, which can improve their function and overall health.

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Massage can help reduce inflammation

Inflammatory responses in the body can cause an array of health problems, including poor circulation. Massage can help in reducing inflammation in the body by stimulating the lymphatic system. When the massage therapist applies pressure to your muscles, it can help in moving the lymphatic fluid, which can reduce inflammation in the body. This, in turn, can promote better circulation, helping your body function optimally.

Massage can help relax your muscles

Stress and strain in your muscles can cause them to contract, which can limit blood flow. A good massage can help in relaxing your muscles, which can improve their flexibility. When the muscles are relaxed, the blood vessels around them can dilate and allow blood to circulate more efficiently. This can ensure that your body gets an adequate supply of blood, which can improve your overall health.

Massage can help improve cardiovascular health

The cardiovascular system is central to the circulation of blood in the body. Massage can help in promoting better cardiovascular health by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. This system is responsible for slowing down the heart rate, promoting relaxation, and improving circulation. Massage can help in regulating the cardiovascular system, which can improve your overall cardiovascular health.

Massage can promote an overall sense of well-being

Massage can provide an overall sense of relaxation and well-being, which can promote better circulation. Stress and anxiety can cause the muscles to tense up, which can interfere with blood flow. A good massage can help in reducing stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation throughout the body. This, in turn, can help in promoting better circulation and overall health.

Related: What do massage therapy and healthy sleep have in common?

Conclusion

Massage can have some great benefits for your circulation and overall health. It can stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, relax your muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and promote an overall sense of well-being. Regular massage sessions can help in maintaining optimal health and ensuring that your body is functioning efficiently. If you’re looking for a natural, healthy way to improve your circulation, massage can be a great option. So why not book a massage today and allow your body to reap the benefits of improved circulation and overall health?

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 517-898-2899  or book online.

We look forward to helping you feel better and have a more pain-free lifestyle.

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How do you know you have received a ‘less than ideal’ massage?

On June 3, 2023   /   Massage Therapy   /   Leave a comment
How do you know you have received a ‘less than ideal’ massage?

Have you ever wondered if the massage you just got was good or not? After all, even though receiving a massage feels great at the moment, it’s sometimes difficult to tell whether or not you have actually received effective treatment. Fortunately, there are several key indicators that you can use to determine if your massage may have been ‘less than ideal’. By understanding these signs and taking measures to ensure your massage therapist is properly trained and qualified, you can rest assured knowing that the next time around won’t be as much of a gamble. Keep reading to learn more about how you can get the best out of every single massage session!

Did the massage therapist check in with you?

When it comes to massage therapy, communication is key. A good massage therapist will always ask how you are feeling if the pressure is okay, and if there are any specific areas you want them to focus on. However, if your massage therapist doesn’t take the time to check in with you, it can be a sign that they are not interested in your well-being.

A massage therapist who doesn’t ask the patient how she is doing may be simply going through the motions of the massage, without paying attention to the specific needs of the patient. They may not adjust the pressure to ensure the client is comfortable, or they may not be aware of any existing injuries or sore spots. This can lead to a massage that is ineffective, or even painful.

It’s important to remember that a massage is meant to be a relaxing and therapeutic experience, and it’s your right as the patient to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. If you don’t feel like you are receiving a good massage, don’t be afraid to communicate your needs to your therapist. A good massage therapist will be receptive and willing to adapt to your needs to provide you with the best possible experience.

Was the room comfortable?

When it comes to evaluating a massage experience, one often overlooks the importance of the environment where the massage takes place. However, it is a crucial element that can significantly impact the overall quality of your massage. So, it is essential to consider the comfort level of the massage room to determine whether or not you received a good massage.

A comfortable massage room should be soothing and welcoming, with a pleasant and calming atmosphere. It should be spacious enough to allow the therapist to move around comfortably, but not too big that it feels empty. The lighting should be dim and soft, creating a relaxing ambiance, while the temperature should be set to your personal preference. Moreover, the massage table should be sturdy and comfortable, with a sufficient amount of padding and supportive cushions.

If the massage room is not comfortable, it can be extremely distracting, and your body and mind may not be able to fully relax. You may feel tense, anxious, or even uncomfortable, which can negatively impact your massage experience. In contrast, a comfortable massage room allows you to let go of stress and tension, focus on your breathing, and fully immerse yourself in the massage experience, helping you achieve a deeper level of relaxation.

In summary, a comfortable massage room is essential for a good massage experience. If you didn’t feel comfortable during your massage, it’s likely that your massage experience was not up to par. So, the next time you receive a massage, pay attention to the environment and evaluate whether it contributes to your overall satisfaction. After all, you deserve the best massage experience possible.

Did you enjoy the soothing music?

Now, let’s talk about one aspect that can greatly affect the quality of a massage: the music. A good massage should involve calming and soothing sounds that can aid in relaxation and make the experience even more enjoyable. So, did you feel like the music played during your massage helped you to unwind and de-stress? Or did the music not quite hit the mark and leave you feeling distracted or bored?

It’s important to note that everyone has different preferences and some people may not enjoy music during their massage at all. However, if you did expect and desire music, and found that it wasn’t to your liking or didn’t enhance your massage experience, this could be a sign that the massage wasn’t quite up to par.

Think about all aspects of your massage and consider whether it met your expectations and needs. If you felt that the music didn’t contribute to your relaxation and enjoyment, don’t hesitate to talk to the massage therapist so he or she can tailor the music and other aspects of the experience to your liking. After all, a good massage should be nothing short of a relaxing and healing experience.

Conclusion

Everyone’s massage experience is unique and understanding how to differentiate between good and bad ones can be a helpful skill. With this knowledge, you can make an informed decision on your next visit and ensure that you have a pleasurable, relaxing time. From tension reduction to the emotional benefits of touch, there are so many reasons why one should get a massage. A subpar session not only wastes your time but can also be damaging if it causes any discomfort or pain. Here at All Body Kneads, we care deeply about our customers’ experiences and strive to give every one of them the very best in service and care. Book now with All Body Kneads so that you can have peace of mind knowing that you will have an enjoyable massage free from worry. It’s time for you to unlock all of the wonderful benefits that massages can bring by booking an appointment with us today!

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 517-898-2899  or book online.

We look forward to helping you feel better and have a more pain-free lifestyle.

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4 Massage Myths Debunked

On April 3, 2023   /   Massage Therapy   /   Leave a comment
4 Massage Myths Debunked

Do you think massage is out of reach, too time-consuming, or expensive? If so, it’s time to get the facts. Massage therapy can be a great addition to your wellness routine—however, there are plenty of myths floating around about what massage can and cannot do for you. That’s why we’ve debunked four commonly-held notions about massage below, showing that this beneficial practice doesn’t have to stay an elusive dream anymore!

Related: How To Get The Best Massage

Massage Myths You Think Are True

Myth #1 – Massage is only for relaxation and luxury

In reality, massage can help with doms (delayed onset muscle soreness), reduce stress, improve circulation and give you a boost of energy.

Have you ever experienced delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after a workout? It can be frustrating and affect your ability to function properly. That’s where massage comes in. Not only can it help relieve DOMS, but also reduce stress levels and improve circulation. As a caregiver, I know the importance of taking care of oneself, and massage can provide the perfect opportunity for self-care. Additionally, it can increase your energy levels, allowing you to tackle your daily tasks with ease. Don’t let sore muscles hold you back, let massage be a part of your self-care routine.

Myth #2 – Massage is too expensive

Taking care of oneself is paramount to living a fulfilling life. Unwinding and relaxing through a massage is a great way to achieve this. However, some may shy away from it, believing it to be a luxury beyond their means. The good news is that getting regular massages can be affordable without breaking the bank, thanks to budget-friendly massage therapists. You can also opt for massage packages that provide value for your hard-earned money. It’s important to take the time to prioritize and invest in yourself, and getting regular massages is one way to show yourself some much-needed care and attention.

Call All Body Kneads today for more information on our packages. 517-898-2899 

Myth #3 – You don’t need to prepare before getting a massage

In reality, it’s important to hydrate and wear comfortable clothes before going in for your session.

Before going in for your next session, it’s crucial to make sure you’re properly hydrated and dressed in comfortable clothes. Not only will this ensure a more enjoyable experience, but it’s important for your overall well-being. Think of hydrating as fuel for your body, allowing you to work harder and last longer during your session. Wearing comfortable clothes can help you relax and focus on the task at hand, rather than being distracted by tight or restrictive clothing. So take care of yourself beforehand, and you’ll be able to get the most out of your workout, therapy, or whatever session you have scheduled.

Myth #4 – You should wait until something hurts to get a massage

Taking care of your body should be a top priority. With the daily pressures of life, it’s easy to forget about keeping our bodies healthy and strong. However, preventative maintenance is key. By scheduling regular massages, you’re not only treating yourself to a moment of relaxation but also taking steps toward injury prevention. The benefits of a massage extend beyond just the physical release of tension. A regular massage can improve your overall well-being by reducing stress, improving sleep, and promoting mental clarity. So, why not take a moment to book a massage appointment and give your body the care and attention it deserves?

Bonus myth busters

Looking for some more guidance on massage therapy? Check out these great blogs to learn more about the many benefits of massage and how it can help improve your life!

A Short Primer on Five Different Types of Massages
Are You Holding Tension In Any of These Places?

Top 5 Benefits of Facial Massage

Massage Therapy Benefits for Rehabilitation

The Benefits of Pregnancy Massage

A massage session is a chance to relax and recharge, so don’t let the myths stop you from feeling your best. Remember, anyone can benefit from massage therapy, regardless of age, activity level, or condition. With that in mind, it’s important to find the modality that works best for you and ask questions to ensure the therapist is certified in that specific style of massage. When we take care of ourselves, our perspectives and outlook on life become brighter. So take action today – schedule an appointment with us here at All Body Kneads. We’ll help tailor a massage plan specifically for you so that you can live your life to the fullest without letting massage myths get in your way.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 517-898-2899  or book online.

We look forward to helping you feel better and have a more pain-free lifestyle.

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Are You Holding Tension In Any of These Places?

On March 6, 2023   /   Massage Therapy   /   Leave a comment
Are You Holding Tension In Any of These Places?

Are you feeling exhausted, struggling to make it through the day with a lingering sense of holding tension in your body that won’t seem to go away? Too often as busy adults, we’re so focused on our to-do lists and meeting deadlines that we forget about tending to our mental and physical health. If you’ve been feeling like this lately, perhaps it’s time for taking stock of where the tension is manifesting itself in your body – neck stiffness, shoulder pain, or headaches. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring why these areas are susceptible to muscular tension, what causes them, and ways to find relief.

What Causes Tension?

The direct cause of tension can be caused by several factors, some of which include:

  • A job or activity that requires repetitive movements
  • A strenuous workout
  • Excessive psychological stress

How Stress Causes Tension

Your body and mind are truly connected – when negative emotions like stress flood your brain, they can manifest in physical responses. Your body reflects the rush of cortisol that’s been triggered while activating a fight or flight response. Take some time to pause and reset; make sure you give yourself space for healthy self-care during high-emotion times!

Stress is a natural response to challenging situations, but sometimes our bodies can go into overdrive and cause unwanted muscle tension. It’s as if they’re trying to protect us from harm – even when that danger doesn’t really exist! This reaction may be different for each person, however, it’s important that we take the time to recognize any physical signs of stress before they start taking their toll on our well-being.

Our bodies are telling us something. From our shoulders to low backs, tension can reveal itself in various forms throughout the body – and it’s important for us to pay attention! To ensure we’re taking care of ourselves from head to toe, let’s explore how this tension is manifested in different areas.

Upper Body Tension

Tension in the upper body is most commonly held in the head, jaw, neck, and shoulders.

headache

HEAD

Stress is the most common trigger for tension-type headaches. When the tension in your head builds up, it can give rise to a specific type of headache. This kind of pain is usually described as mild or moderate and feels like an intense band around the skull. Interestingly enough, there are two main types – episodic headaches which last anywhere from half an hour to one week but occur less than 15 days each month. Chronic headaches appear more often and with greater duration (upwards of several hours).

Massage therapy has proven to help with tension headaches. Gua Sha massage, in particular, may help.

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JAW

Feeling tension in your jaw can be a sign that something is off. You may have unknowingly tensed or clenched it due to stress, and over time this could lead to discomfort with TMJ disorder. Don’t worry though – there’s still hope! Taking care of yourself by getting a TMJ-specific massage can provide relief from the pain and help manage the problem.

Holding Tension

SHOULDERS

Easy Fixes for a Tight Neck and Shoulders

After a long day at work, do your neck and shoulders feel tense? You’re not alone; stress-related tension in this area is very common. Muscle spasms can suddenly or slowly cause pain due to the nerves and joints located there. It’s important to remember that job-induced stress isn’t something we have control over – but luckily our bodies tell us when it’s time for some well-deserved TLC! Easy Fixes for a Tight Neck and Shoulders

Working on screens or using technology too much can strain your upper back, neck, and shoulders. That imbalance builds tension in the body which is linked to pain! Thankfully there are massage techniques that help realign these muscles, improve blood flow and release any accumulated stress for longer-lasting relief.

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Mid-Body Tension

Tension in the middle of the body typically shows up in the stomach and hips.

STOMACH

Is stress taking its toll on your stomach? You may find your abdominal muscles contract when you’re feeling anxious, leading to uncomfortable feelings. But don’t worry – by engaging in relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, can help minimize these effects and ease any tension that builds up. And if ever the pain doesn’t improve after trying some self-care practices, make sure you check with a healthcare practitioner for their advice too!

Holding Tension

HIPS

Our hips play an important role in our physical and mental well-being. The tightness can be caused by everyday factors like sitting for too long or working out frequently, but it may also be triggered during stressful times as a result of the body’s “fight or flight” response. Interestingly, yoga practices suggest that stretching these muscles could help release any emotions we have tucked away – demonstrating how much impact tension from stress has on this area!

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Holding Tension

Lower-Body Tension

Lower-body tension is typically found in the legs and feet.

LEGS

Our legs work tirelessly to support us each and every day, so it’s important for us to ensure we’re looking after them. Muscle tension in the lower limbs can be caused by overuse if you’ve been walking a lot or working out often at the gym – but on other occasions, even extended rest periods can contribute towards feeling stiffness and pain due to lack of movement. The key is finding an all-important middle ground that allows your muscles some time off while still providing enough activity needed! It’s also worth noting that stress brings with it various factors which could result in tense leg muscles too; such as panic attacks or sleep difficulties like tossing/turning throughout the night.

Can Massage Help with Sciatica?

Holding Tension

FEET

Our feet are an incredible network of muscles, ligaments, and tendons – but if you spend a lot of time using them or have an active lifestyle it’s no surprise that tension can often build up. When stress strikes our body produces adrenaline which forces vital organs to take priority, leaving your ankles and soles feeling the strain. To reduce tightness in these areas promote circulation through massage – not only will this let go of lingering pressures from physical activity or worrying thoughts; it gives us a chance to relax too!

Foot Massage Therapy

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 517-898-2899  or book online.

We look forward to helping you feel better and have a more pain-free lifestyle.

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Can Massage Help with Sciatica?

On October 25, 2022   /   Massage Therapy   /   Leave a comment
Can Massage Help with Sciatica?

If you suffer from sciatica, you’re not alone. You know how debilitating the pain can be. The good news is that massage may be able to help! In this blog post, we’ll discuss what sciatica is, what causes it, and how massage therapy can provide relief.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or irritated. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the legs. When this nerve becomes compressed or irritated, it can cause pain in the lower back, hips, and legs. Sciatica can also cause numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected leg.

Sciatica can be caused by a number of things, including:

  • posture
  • spinal misalignment
  • herniated discs
  • spinal stenosis
  • degenerative disc disease
  • piriformis syndrome
  • pregnancy

Activities such as sitting for long periods of time or lifting heavy objects can also contribute to sciatica.

Thankfully, there are treatments available that can help ease the pain of sciatica. One such treatment is massage therapy. But does massage really help with sciatica? Let’s take a closer look.

How Massage Can Help Relieve Sciatica Pain

There are a few ways in which massage can help to relieve sciatica pain.

First, massage can help to loosen any tight muscles or tissues that may be putting pressure on the sciatic nerve. This pressure is often what leads to the pain associated with sciatica.

Second, massage therapy can increase blood flow and circulation to the affected area. This increase in blood flow helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Finally, massage therapy can help to release endorphins—the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals—which can further help to ease sciatica pain.

If you’re considering massage therapy as a treatment for your sciatica, it’s important to choose a qualified therapist who has experience treating this condition. Be sure to book a consultation beforehand so that you can discuss your goals for treatment and make sure that massage is right for you.

Conclusion

If you suffer from sciatica, you know how painful and debilitating the condition can be. Thankfully, massage therapy may be able to help! Massage can help to increase blood flow to the area, reduce inflammation, and release tight muscles that may be pressing on the nerve. If you’re looking for relief from your sciatica pain, consider scheduling an appointment with All Body Kneads today!

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 517-898-2899 or book online.

We look forward to helping you feel better and have a more pain-free lifestyle.

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Top 5 Benefits of Facial Massage

On September 6, 2022   /   Massage Therapy   /   Leave a comment
Top 5 Benefits of Facial Massage

When it comes to facial massage, there are countless benefits to be had. From improving your skin’s texture and complexion, to reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, facial massage can do wonders for your appearance. But that’s not all – facial massage can also help improve your overall mood and sense of well-being.

BONUS: If you book a massage or sauna session in September, receive a complimentary facial mask add-on!

So if you’re looking for a way to take care of yourself both inside and out, facial massage is a great option. Here are five of the top benefits of facial massage.


1) Improved skin texture and complexion

Massaging your face regularly helps stimulate blood circulation, which in turn helps keep your skin healthy and radiant. We all know that spending time in the sun can really damage our skin and make us look older, but did you also realize how important it is for your face to stay healthy? Regularly massaging with gentle pressure helps stimulate blood circulation which keeps any toxins from building up on top of each other! The more they are pushed away towards those pores at their source-the faster this will happen because there’s no space available anymore. And who wouldn’t want a brighter-looking complexion?


2) Reduction in wrinkles and fine lines

The gentle massaging motion helps promote collagen production, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines over time. Facial massages have been shown to increase circulation in the face, which promotes oxygen and blood flow in the skin. Not only does this result in reducing puffiness or dark circles around your eyes – but it also creates a brighter appearance by increasing collagen production! You can get that ‘natural face lift’ without surgery with just one 20-30 minute session each week at home using our favorite method: a facial massage therapy.


3) Improved mood and sense of well-being

Just like a full-body massage, facials are a great way to relax and de-stress. The therapeutic effects of facial massage can help improve your mood, and sense of well-being overall while also helping you achieve that all-important relaxation! Massages work our facial muscles by releasing tension while lifting the skin and making them firmer. Think of it as an anti-aging treatment and natural therapy. Remember, Self-Care is Not Selfish!

self-care


4) Removal of Excess Waste in the Body

One of the best parts about facials is that they can help you have a clearer complexion. The massaging motion helps dislodge any built-up toxins from your face, which in turn will leave behind an even more beautiful and glowing skin tone for everyone to see!


5) Increased absorption of skincare products

By increasing blood flow to the area, facial massage also allows skincare products to be better absorbed by the skin, leading to improved results. So if you’re looking for an easy way to boost your beauty routine, add some regular facial massages into the mix!

Book Your Massage in September and Get a Free Facial Mask Add-On

The benefits of facial massage are vast and varied. From reducing wrinkles to relieving tension headaches, it’s no wonder this form of massage is growing in popularity. If you haven’t given facial massage a try yet, we highly recommend it.

Bilky Joda-Miller, massage therapist and owner of All Body Kneads is skilled in many types of massage, including facial massage. You can get it as an add-on to any massage or sauna appointment. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 517-898-2899  or book online.

We look forward to helping you feel better and have a more pain-free lifestyle.

How to Give Yourself a Facial Massage

JAWLINE & CHEEKS:  Use the pads of your fingers to massage your chin, jawline, and cheeks in upward circular movements.

FOREHEAD:  Use your fingertips to smooth your forehead with a firm lifting movement. Starting at the eyebrows and finishing at the hairline.  Next, use the pads of your fingers to make small circular movements beginning between your eyebrows, and working toward the temples.

EYES:  Use your pinky fingers alternately and tap the delicate skin underneath the inner eye, working outward toward the temples.

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Cold Stone Massage Benefits

On August 10, 2022   /   Massage Therapy   /   Leave a comment
Cold Stone Massage Benefits

If you’re looking for a way to reduce inflammation and ease pain, then cold stone massage might be the solution for you.

The cool stones used during massage can help contract muscles, increase circulation, and alleviate bloating. By cooling down the muscles and skin, cold stone massage therapy feels soothing, calming, refreshing, and rejuvenating throughout the body, which can also reduce stress, relieve tension, and boost energy levels.

First, we chill smooth stones on ice and then gently place them or roll them over the face, neck, or other areas of the body. This is also called cryotherapy and the cooling of the skin causes the blood vessels to constrict. This can reduce swelling and pain in sore areas.

Benefits Of Cold Stone Massage

Cool Body Temperature

Cold stones are a great way to cool down your body when you’re feeling too hot. Not only do they help alleviate the discomfort of high temperatures, but coldstone therapy also has benefits for other conditions and doesn’t cause desensitization like ice does!

Increase Circulation/Lower Blood Pressure

Massage therapy using cold stones can be a great way to help improve circulation and reduce high blood pressure.

Improves Range Of Motion & Flexibility

Pain is usually a symptom of inflammation. When your muscles are inflamed, they are also usually in pain. Cold stones can reduce inflammation which increases your range of motion and flexibility.

Relieve Migraines

By rolling or placing cold stones on the temples, forehead, and sides of your face you can reduce the blood rushing to these areas which may relieve migraines and less severe headaches.

Soothes Sinus Pressure

The cold temperature of these stones during a massage can improve lymphatic flow by opening up nodes and draining fluids. This helps alleviate symptoms like sinusitis and allergies, as well as any other pressure build-up.

Eases Menstrual Symptoms

When cold stone massage therapy is applied to the abdominal region, it can reduce swelling around the uterus. This can help alleviate pain, bloating, and discomfort.

Improves Skin

As cold stones stimulate the skin, they oxygenate cells which encourages cell repair and reduces cytokines. This improves the complexion by reducing puffiness or redness on the face.

Relieves Minor Injuries

Sore muscles, joint pain, and tendinitis may benefit from cold stone massage therapy. Cold stones are easier for the skin to handle than direct ice for inflammation and reducing swelling.

Where to Find Cold Stone Massage

Bilky Joda-Miller, massage therapist and owner of All Body Kneads is skilled in cold (and hot) stone massage. You can get it as an add-on to any massage or sauna appointment. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call517-898-2899  or book online.

We look forward to helping you feel better and have a more pain-free lifestyle.

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Massage Therapy Benefits for Rehabilitation

On May 2, 2022   /   Massage Therapy   /   Leave a comment
Massage Therapy Benefits for Rehabilitation

Massage Therapy Benefits for Rehabilitation

If you’re like most people, you probably think of massage therapy as a way to relax and de-stress. And while that’s definitely one of the benefits of massage, there are many others that can be helpful for rehabilitating injuries. Massage has been shown to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. If you’re recovering from an injury, talk to your doctor about whether massage therapy might be a good option for you. You may be surprised at how much it can help!

Before Surgery

Surgery can be a stressful experience, and the anticipation of pain before surgery often leads to higher levels in patients who have never experienced this type of physical discomfort. Addressing these fears early on is crucial for post-surgery management. Massage therapy before a major event like surgery or even difficult physical therapy can help prepare the mind and body to get the maximum benefit from the process.

The post-surgical pain and other common physical issues that many people experience after surgery can also be difficult to deal with. Luckily, massage therapy is an excellent form of treatment for this type of discomfort because it provides muscles with gentle touching which helps alleviate stress on the body’s system as well reduce inflammation from scarring.

After Surgery

Post-surgical pain can be a major issue for patients, and it’s something we have to take into consideration when they are recovering from surgery. Research shows persistent or chronic post-surgical pain lasting two to three months is responsible for nearly 1 in 4 cases of chronic pain. 

We all know that postop recovery isn’t always easy but this task becomes more complicated if you’re experiencing chronic or persistent levels of discomfort which may delay your return back into daily life activities. Studies indicate that massage therapy has a variety of benefits for helping people recover faster from surgeries, and also helps with:

  • Decreasing postoperative pain and intensity
  • Reducing postoperative pain, stress, and anxiety
  • Mitigating sympathetic responses to postoperative pain
  • Decreasing doses of analgesics
  • Boosting levels of calmness and feelings of well-being
  • Reducing inflammation and scar tissue
  • Helping regain full range of motion without discomfort
  • Aiding in the re-alignment of muscles and joints
  • Help improve circulation and reduce swelling

Your Rehabilitation Will Improve with Massage Therapy

Talk to your doctor or therapist about whether massage therapy might be right for you after surgery, an accident, or a major illness. Massage therapy is a great addition to your rehabilitation program. Plus, it just feels good!

If you have surgery or a major health event coming up, consider incorporating massage therapy into your pre-and post-procedure care in order to prepare to the best of your ability and to shorten your recovery time.

Make an appointment today with All Body Kneads. You can call 517-898-2899  or click the link below to schedule online.

Book a massage today!

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What is Frozen Shoulder? How do you fix it?

On January 31, 2022   /   Massage Therapy   /   Leave a comment
What is Frozen Shoulder? How do you fix it?

Frozen shoulder is a weird thing. 

Frozen shoulder is technically called adhesive capsulitis. It causes stiffness, pain, and discomfort in your shoulder joint. It occurs when the range of motion of your shoulder joint is reduced to the point that it feels as though your shoulder is frozen.

Signs and symptoms typically begin gradually, worsen over time and then resolve, usually within one to three years. Who wants to endure three years of shoulder pain and stiffness? Just to hope it goes away on its own? 

Book a massage today!

What Causes Frozen Shoulder

Often it doesn’t seem to be caused by an injury or other event. However, it can be caused by underuse. For example, if you are recovering from a medical condition or procedure that prevents you from moving your arm like a stroke or a mastectomy. 

Sometimes people just get it. It seems to affect people over the age of 40 and women more than men. More research remains to be done on the causes. 

Regardless of what causes it, it hurts and you want the pain to go away. 

According to the Mayo Clinic: 

Frozen shoulder typically develops slowly, and in three stages. Each stage can last a number of months.

  • Freezing stage. Any movement of your shoulder causes pain, and your shoulder’s range of motion starts to become limited.
  • Frozen stage. Pain may begin to diminish during this stage. However, your shoulder becomes stiffer, and using it becomes more difficult.
  • Thawing stage. The range of motion in your shoulder begins to improve.

For some people, the pain worsens at night, sometimes disrupting sleep.

What Can I do About Frozen Shoulder? 

We feel it best to try non-invasive, non-drug approaches first to get relief. Massage for frozen shoulder includes focusing on myofascial trigger points in the muscles of the shoulder and surrounding areas.

Be sure to make an appointment with a licensed massage therapist who is knowledgeable about trigger points and frozen shoulders. All Body Kneads will take good care of you. 

Make an appointment today.

Here is a great article from Health Line with examples of stretches and foam roller exercises you can use for frozen shoulder. 

Again, according to the Mayo Clinic, “treatment for frozen shoulder involves range-of-motion exercises and, sometimes, corticosteroids and numbing medications injected into the joint capsule. In a small percentage of cases, arthroscopic surgery may be indicated to loosen the joint capsule so that it can move more freely.”

Are you suffering from a frozen shoulder? 

We know the pain is annoying and is limiting your ability to do the things you love, even sleep. Let us help you with your frozen shoulder pain. 

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Easy Fixes for a Tight Neck and Shoulders

On December 8, 2021   /   Massage Therapy   /   Leave a comment
Easy Fixes for a Tight Neck and Shoulders

Do you suffer from tight, achy neck and shoulder muscles? When you’re stressed out or tense, your shoulders tend to hunch forward. This puts pressure on the back of your neck which can lead to pain and stiffness. Sometimes it’s hard to tell if you’re just sore or actually dealing with an injury like whiplash. Here are some easy things that could help release tension in those areas so you can feel good again!

Tips for Tigh Neck and Shoulders

Heating pad. Place a small heating pad over the neck and shoulders for about 20 minutes.

Foam Roller. Apply pressure to tight muscles with your hands or use a foam roller.

Gentle Stretching. Stretch your neck by tilting your head to one side, then the other. Stretch regularly throughout the day – don’t wait until you’re tired to stretch!

Self- Massage. Massage sore areas with lotion or oil. Check out our article on self-massage tips for more information.

Good Sleep. Get plenty of sleep every night – you need at least 7 hours of sleep each night for healthy muscle function!

Take Breaks. Take breaks from sitting up straight all day long by resting in between tasks, stretching often, and taking walks during lunch break.

Hot Bath. Try a hot bath with Epsom salts and lavender oil

Light Exercise. Take some time out of your day to do neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, and arm circles

Good Posture. Practice good posture by sitting up straight in your chair at work or home.

Lighten Your Load. Don’t carry a heave a backpack, purse, or crossbody bag that is pulling on your neck and shoulders.

Reduce Phone Use. “Text neck” is a term that has been coined to describe the posture formed by leaning forward for prolonged periods, for example when viewing a cellphone while reading and texting. This can cause stress injuries and pain.  This posture often results in neck and shoulder pain, and headaches.

If these tips aren’t helping or you are seeking more relief, it is time to call a professional massage therapist. All Body Kneads can provide full body massage or a concentration on your neck and shoulders.

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