Therapeutic Massage
At Isthmus Acupuncture Center, LLC (IAC) we focus on therapeutic massage to promote health and well-being. We specialize in Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy™, Tui Na (Chinese Medical Massage), pregnancy and post-partum massage. Massage sessions are individualized based on the needs at the present time. Massage therapists are trained in many techniques including deep tissue, acupressure, cupping, guasha, hot stone, Swedish, and myofascial release.
Prior to a massage session, an interview assessing needs is conducted and the therapist will recommend a treatment plan, explain techniques, and outline the estimated time and number of sessions to achieve the goal. During follow-up sessions, the therapist will review progress and implement changes.
Following massage, it is critical to drink four to five eight-ounce glasses of water. This will flush out toxins trapped in sore or tight muscles. While the muscles heal, there may be soreness in some areas. If there is soreness, try a warm Epsom salt bath and drink more water.
Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy™ specifically benefits the abdominal and pelvic organs. MAM can guide the uterus into her optimal position and treats most gynecological disorders, digestive complaints, and incontinence. MAM increases blood flow, balances nerve impulses, promotes lymphatic drainage, and harmonizes the energy in the pelvic organs. Maya abdominal self-care is taught during the initial session to further encourage healing. MAM is recommended for all fertility clients.
Tui Na (Chinese Medical Massage) (pronounced twee-nah) and acupressure are ancient healing arts dating back over 3,000 years. A wide range of tissue manipulation techniques are used in Tui Na and have been refined over centuries. Tui Na facilitates healing by regulating the circulation of Blood and Qi (vital energy), regulating body function, and enhancing the immune system.
Pregnancy, Labor, and Post-Partum Massage
At Isthmus Acupuncture Center, we provide specialized Pregnancy Massage to encourage healthy pregnancies. Physical changes occur for the mother-to-be at a rapid rate and our goal is to help every pregnancy be as enjoyable as possible. Pregnancy massage is recommended during the second and third trimesters unless there are special needs. Labor preparation massage is recommended weekly starting at 37 weeks. Post-partum massage is recommended within a few weeks after delivery to promote proper recovery.
Raindrop Technique® Massage
Raindrop therapy uses nine different essential oils, chosen for their antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, on the feet and the spine. Oils are massaged into the feet one at a time using the Vita-Flex massage technique, which means “vitality through the reflexes.” Then oils are dropped onto the spine one by one and each is followed by a different massage technique. Vita-Flex and the feather-like massage techniques are very different from traditional reflexology and back massage. They do not employ heavy pressure, pushing, or any form of spinal manipulation. The essential oils’ gentle action is what brings about the remarkable results. Raindrop Therapy helps with detoxification, parasites, back and shoulder tightness, chronic pain, scoliosis, and digestive problems.
I received my first treatment from Kathleen one morning after I started spotting six weeks into my pregnancy. Her quiet reassurance and professionalism were as instrumental as the acupuncture needles in calming my nerves, and helping me to believe that everything was okay. She is a perfect fit to the caring, supportive atmosphere that is an integral part of the Isthmus Acupuncture Clinic."
