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!

Should I get A Massage After Skiing & Snowboarding?

Photo By Rowan Simpson At Cadrona Ski Fields New Zealand

Experience Ultimate Relief with a Deep Tissue Massage after Skiing & Snowboarding

After pushing your body to its limits on the slopes, your muscles can become tight, sore, and fatigued. Our skilled massage therapists specialize in deep tissue techniques that go beyond just surface-level relaxation. We target the deeper layers of muscle tissue to release tension, alleviate pain, and promote a quicker recovery post-skiing.

Here's why our deep tissue massage is the ultimate choice for skiers & snowboards like you:

1. Targeted Muscle Relief: Our therapists are trained in the art of deep tissue massage, ensuring they can access those hard-to-reach areas that accumulate the most tension post-skiing & snowboarding. By focusing on specific muscle groups, we can effectively release knots and adhesions, providing you with instant relief and improved flexibility.

2. Enhanced Recovery: Skiing & snowboarding can put a considerable strain on your body, leading to muscle inflammation and potential injuries. Our deep tissue massage helps to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, and break up scar tissue, allowing your muscles to recover more efficiently. This means you can hit the slopes feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, day after day!

3. Improved Performance: Regular deep tissue massages can actually enhance your overall performance on the slopes. By maintaining loose and supple muscles, you can improve your range of motion and prevent muscle imbalances. This means better balance, stability, and control as you conquer the mountainside.

4. Stress Relief: Skiing & snowboarding are an incredibly exciting and adrenaline-pumping activity, but it can also take a toll on your mental wellbeing. Our deep tissue massage not only targets your muscles but also provides a peaceful and serene environment for you to unwind and relax. Allow your mind and body to find harmony as our therapists melt away your stress and tension.

5. Personalized Approach: At Remedial Massage Queenstown, we understand every body is different. Before your massage, our therapists will assess your individual concerns and tailor the treatment to address your specific aches and pains. Rest assured, you're in expert hands!

Are you tired of finishing your day on the slopes with sore and achy muscles? Look no further! At Remedial Massage Queenstown, we have the perfect solution to help you unwind and recover from an exhilarating day of skiing - our revitalizing deep tissue massage! Head to the book now page & we can sort you out!