Massage
Massage is the manipulation of top lying and deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue using various techniques to improve function. Massage utilizes multiple techniques to affect the superficial (top lying) and deep layers of muscle and connective tissue to: enhance function, aid in the healing process, decrease muscle reflex activity, inhibit motor-neuron excitability, and promote relaxation and well-being.
Some of the techniques offered at Neuro Muscular Connection are lymphatic massage, deep tissue, myofascial release, active release, and sports massage.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): Gentle Detox for Your Body’s Fluid System
What It Is:
MLD is a specialized, feather-light massage technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system—your body’s natural "drainage network" that removes toxins, reduces swelling, and supports immunity. Unlike traditional massage, it uses subtle, rhythmic hand movements to guide excess fluid toward lymph nodes for processing.
Key Benefits:
Reduces swelling (edema) – Post-surgery (like cosmetic procedures), injury, or lymphedema.
Boosts immunity – Encourages white blood cell circulation.
Speeds recovery – From illness, chronic inflammation, or intense workouts.
Calms the nervous system – Ultra-relaxing, almost meditative experience.
How It Works:
Therapist uses gentle, wave-like strokes (no oil/lotion) following precise lymphatic pathways.
Focuses on neck, armpits, groin, and other lymph node areas.
Feels like a "barely-there" touch—pressure is lighter than a Swedish massage.
Who It’s For:
Post-op patients (especially cosmetic surgery like lipo or facelifts)
People with lymphedema or chronic swelling
Anyone battling fatigue, stress, or frequent illnesses
Detox support (e.g., after travel or seasonal allergies)
"Think of it as a reset button for your body’s fluid balance—like brushing stagnant energy out of your tissues."
Note: MLD is contraindicated for active infections, blood clots, or congestive heart failure—always consult your doctor first.
Sports Massage
Sports massage is geared towards every type of athlete and is customized to the athlete and the sport(s) they participate in. The massage is primarily focused on the areas of the body that are overused and under the most stress due to repetitive and often aggressive movements. Sports massage can be utilized for pre-event preparation, post-event detoxification, and recovery between events. Athletes have found that they have increased flexibility, increased endurance, reduced muscle pain and fatigue, and reduced risk of injury.
Swedish Massage: The Classic Relaxation Experience
Swedish massage is the most well-known and widely practiced form of massage therapy—and for good reason. Using long, flowing strokes, gentle kneading, and rhythmic tapping, this technique promotes deep relaxation, improves circulation, and eases muscle tension.
Perfect for anyone looking to unwind, Swedish massage helps:
Relieve stress – Calms the nervous system for full-body relaxation.
Improve circulation – Encourages healthy blood flow and oxygenation.
Release muscle tension – Targets soreness without deep pressure.
Enhance flexibility – Gently loosens stiff joints and tight muscles.
Boost overall wellness – A perfect introduction to therapeutic touch.
Ideal for first-time clients or those who simply want a soothing, rejuvenating experience, Swedish massage is a wonderful way to treat yourself to self-care. Whether you're easing everyday stress or just need a moment of tranquility, this timeless technique leaves you feeling refreshed and renewed.
Deep Tissue Massage: Therapeutic Relief for Chronic Tension
Deep tissue massage is a focused, therapeutic technique designed to release stubborn muscle tension and restore mobility. Using slow, deliberate strokes and firm pressure, this method targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to address:
Chronic pain – Breaks up adhesions (knots) that contribute to long-term discomfort.
Restricted movement – Helps improve flexibility and joint function.
Postural strain – Releases tension from overused or tight muscles (common in necks, shoulders, and lower backs).
Injury recovery – Reduces scar tissue and promotes healing in affected areas.
While deeper pressure is used, communication is key—your therapist will work within your comfort level to ensure effective relief without unnecessary discomfort. Ideal for athletes, desk workers, or anyone dealing with persistent muscle tightness, deep tissue massage offers lasting relief and improved body function.
Note: Some soreness afterward is normal (like post-workout stiffness), but hydration, stretch, and light movement help ease this temporary effect.
Myofascial Release: Gentle, Profound Healing for Your Body's Web of Tension
Myofascial release is a specialized therapy that focuses on releasing restrictions in your fascia – the thin, web-like connective tissue that surrounds and supports every muscle, organ, and structure in your body. When fascia becomes tight or restricted due to injury, stress, or repetitive movements, it can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility – even in areas far from the original tension.
How It Works:
Slow, sustained pressure – Your therapist uses gentle, prolonged holds (rather than forceful manipulation) to allow tight fascia to "unwind" and rehydrate.
Whole-body approach – Since fascia connects throughout the body, releasing one area can improve function in another (e.g., hip tension affecting shoulder movement).
Restores ease of movement – By freeing fascial restrictions, this therapy helps reduce pain, improve posture, and regain fluid motion.
Ideal For:
Chronic pain (especially when other therapies haven’t fully helped)
Post-injury recovery or scar tissue
Headaches/jaw tension (TMJD)
Restricted mobility or that "stuck" feeling in muscles
What to Expect: Sessions are deeply relaxing yet transformative. Unlike deep tissue work, myofascial release shouldn’t feel painful – just a satisfying "melting" sensation as tension dissolves. Many clients report feeling lighter, taller, or more "open" afterward.
"Think of it as ironing out the wrinkles in your body’s inner fabric."