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6 Tips for Finding a Professional Massage Therapist in Lexington, KY

Finding the right massage therapist is crucial for a safe and effective experience. Here at Massage Solutions, I’ve done my best to create a safe, welcoming, and professional business. It is always my goal to provide the best care to each person that comes into my space. Leave the world better than you found it!

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Fascia: Restriction, Rehabilitation, Recovery

The fascial network consists of multiple layers, from superficial layers just beneath the skin to deep layers surrounding individual muscle fibers and organs. These layers are continuous throughout the body, forming a three-dimensional web-like matrix that binds and separates structures while allowing for movement and flexibility.

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Pain Management: Medication vs Massage

Pain medications and massage therapy offer different approaches to managing pain, and their benefits can vary depending on the type of pain, its cause, and individual preferences. Pain medication, such as over-the-counter drugs or prescription medications, can provide temporary relief by masking the symptoms of pain. However, it often comes with potential side effects and doesn't address the root cause of the pain.

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Understanding Muscle Guarding: Why Your Body Tenses Up and How to Find Relief 

Muscle guarding, also known as protective muscle tension or splinting, refers to the involuntary contraction or tightening of muscles surrounding an injured or painful area. This reflexive response is initiated by the nervous system in an attempt to stabilize the affected region and prevent further damage. Essentially, it's your body's way of bracing itself against potential harm.

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What Type of Massage Do I Need?

What type of massage do you need? These are modalities offered here at Massage Solutions, the techniques Samantha has been trained in and can offer to clients. Deep tissue, sports massage, stretching sessions, neuromuscular therapy, myofascial release, myofascial cupping, prenatal (pregnant) massage.

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How To Be Comfortable During Your Massage: Breast Pillow 

Ladies, do you experience discomfort or pressure in your breasts while lying on your stomach? The first thing I want to address is the accessibility of a tool called a breast pillow. It offers cushioning to your shoulders and some space between the table and your upper body. This gives your breasts extra space for comfort.

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Fluid Motion: How Synovial Fluid and Massage Therapy Keep Joints Healthy 

Massage Solutions doesn’t just treat your muscles. The muscles are a starting point, a superficial understanding of a complicated, layered approach to whole body health. Fascia, synovial fluid, joint health, range of motion, flexibility, neuromuscular reeducation, nervous system regulation, parasympathetic system deactivation. Book a session and be amazed by the far reaching and overall benefits that can delve into every aspect of your person.

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Spoons and Forks: Chronic Illness

In the spoon theory, "spoons" represent units of energy or capacity to perform activities throughout the day. Everyday you wake up with a number of spoons to pay for activities. These spoons cannot be regained throughout the day. A physically healthy person will wake up with more spoons than someone with a chronic illness.

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Nerve Gliding: Ulnar and Median Nerve

Nerve gliding, also known as nerve flossing or neural mobilization, is a technique used to improve the mobility and function of nerves within the body. This involves gently moving a nerve back and forth within its surrounding tissues to reduce tension, improve flexibility, and alleviate symptoms associated with nerve compression or dysfunction.

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When Is Massage A Bad Idea?

Contraindications in massage refer to situations or conditions where massage therapy might not be suitable or safe for an individual. While massage is generally considered safe for most people, there are certain circumstances where caution should be exercised or where massage therapy should be avoided altogether.

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What Is Chronic Pain?

You have to feel safe in your body to heal. And if every movement is fraught with pain and the anticipation of pain, we become trapped and stuck. You can’t heal when you are in pain. You have to find ways of managing that pain before your body and mind can recover and recognize that it is safe. Bodywork, manual therapy, massage, whatever term you use, is the answer to most cases of chronic pain that does not respond to physical therapy or medications.

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Chronic Pain Management: Massage is the Answer

Yes, the road to managing chronic pain is fraught with challenges, but it is also paved with moments of profound healing and growth. With each massage, we take a step closer to understanding our bodies, to unraveling the mysteries of our pain, and to embracing the possibility of a brighter tomorrow.

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Should I Get a Massage If I Am Sick or Inebriated?

While massage therapy can be beneficial for relaxation and stress relief under normal circumstances, it's advisable to refrain from getting a massage if you're sick or inebriated. Prioritizing your health and safety, as well as considering the well-being of others, is essential when making decisions about receiving massage therapy. By choosing alternative self-care practices and seeking treatment when you're in a healthier state, you can ensure a positive and beneficial experience for yourself and those around you.

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Should I Talk During A Massage?

Here at Massage Solutions (Lexington, KY), I have various types of clients. Talking relaxes some people, particularly in the process of building rapport. It is completely understandable if you are a little nervous, whether it be from having the first massage of your life, or just being in the presence of a new person. It is my goal to put you at ease, so that you can get the most out of your experience. I enjoy getting to know my clients, but it is up to the individual on how they want to engage with me. 

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Can I Work Out After Getting a Massage?

My general advice is to avoid working out after a massage. Stretching and yoga are great additions after or before a session. If you do want to go on a run or do weightlifting on the same day you get a massage, I do recommend doing it prior to your massage. This also offers the benefit of an assisted cool down session during your massage or bodywork.

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Does Massage Therapy Help with Anxiety? 

Pain and stress are common reasons to seek out massage or bodywork, so feel free to share your goals for your session. You don’t have to express all of your daily struggles to receive optimized work. Simply saying, “My body is stressed,” can help direct work towards resetting your nervous system.

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Exploring the Benefits of Deep Compression Therapy: A Comprehensive Guide 

Deep compression therapy is a valuable therapeutic technique with diverse applications for promoting physical and mental well-being. Whether seeking relief from muscle tension and pain, enhancing athletic performance, or simply seeking relaxation and stress relief, individuals can benefit from incorporating deep compression therapy into their wellness routines.

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Understanding Hypertonicity AKA One Definition of a “Knot” 

Hypertonicity is characterized by increased muscle tone and stiffness. It can be uncomfortable and limiting, there are various management strategies available to help individuals alleviate symptoms and improve mobility. A massage therapist or bodywork professional can offer compression therapy to reduce and manage symptoms and improve mobility and body functionality.

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The Power of Preventative Maintenance

Just as we invest in routine maintenance for our cars or homes to prevent breakdowns, our bodies and minds also benefit from preventative maintenance to ward off stress, tension, and illness. Massage therapy serves as a powerful tool in this endeavor, offering holistic benefits for physical, emotional, and mental well-being. By integrating massage therapy into your preventative maintenance routine, you can nurture your body and mind, reduce the impact of stress, and cultivate a foundation of lasting wellness.

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