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Aquatic massage therapy

Aquatic Massage Therapy is a passive therapeutic treatment which utilizes the buoyancy and resistance provided by hydrostatic pressure in a therapeutic pool maintained at neutral body temperature of 98 F.
Aquatic Massage Therapy has evolved from the WATSU and JAHARA aquatic techniques.
It is a bio-mechanically safe, treatment-oriented and touch-appropriate modality developed within the scope of practice for Massage Therapists in Ontario.

Benefits of aquatic massage therapy.

For many types of treatment, it is more suitable than land-based therapies. The body is supported and relaxed by the warm water without pressure on the joints that is normally experienced on land. Therapeutic movements aregentle in the water and the use of a mixed combination of techniques such as range of motion exercises, rehabilitation exercises and massage therapy makes it a suitable treatment for anyone with arthritis, post-surgical conditions,the treatment of choice for pregnancy discomfort , MVA rehabilitation, and anxiety-based conditions such as insomnia.

What to expect.

In an Aquatic Massage Therapy treatment, you are comfortably floated on your back in a warm pool with the therapist supporting you throughout the entire session. A pool-noodle is often used to support the legs while the therapist supports the face above the water. Most people experience the treatment as a slow, gentle, and timeless movement with a deep physical and psychological relaxation. It benefits anyone who loves both massage and water.

Connective tissue techniques

Cross-fibre frictions can be used in the subacute and chronic stages of healing to break down adhesions which prevent normal motion. These adhesions may be within muscle fibres and between structures such as ligaments and tendons. Breaking down adhesions helps to form a smaller, more mobile scar.

Connective tissue or fascia surrounds all muscles, muscle groups, bones and organs, holding them in place. Fascia is a continuous sheet of supportive tissue that envelops the entire body. It is strong yet mobile.
Fascial shortening, adhesions or restrictions due to inflammation, trauma, surgery, pathology or postural imbalances create abnormal tension patterns. Symptoms that appear unrelated may actually be transmitted from one body part to another through fascial imbalances.

Little or no lubricant is used as these techniques rely on tissue drag for their effects. The pressure is moderate to deep and the speed is slow.