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Traditional Massage or Myofascial Bodywork: Which is Right For You?
July 21, 2022 at 7:00 AM
Body Care

The scientifically proven benefits of massage and other bodywork therapies are astounding. They can have a major impact on a patient's life. Myofascial bodywork is a series of deep tissue therapies that can have many similar effects to traditional massage, but with additional benefits.

At Alma Healing Arts, we specialize in providing certified and licensed bodywork therapy and massage in Bergen County. If you have been struggling with pain and injury, get in touch to learn more about how our services can support your healing journey.

Keep reading to learn more about the power of myofascial bodywork treatments and how the practice differs from traditional massage.

What is myofascial bodywork?

Fascia is the deeper tissue that surrounds muscles in the body. Myofascial bodywork is a type of therapy that aims to achieve alignment between deeper layers of muscles and tissue.

For patients with chronic pain, it can be extremely beneficial as it helps to restore balance after injury or trauma. Myofascial release therapy can improve range of motion and aid in the healing of post-surgical issues.

Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT)

NMT is a type of soft tissue manual therapy. During an NMT session, a therapist will apply quasi-static pressure to the body. Using trigger points, this can stimulate muscles and improve posture, biomechanical dysfunction, nerve compression syndrome, and ischemia.

Healing Touch Energy Therapy

In order to support emotional and physical healing, practitioners consciously use their hands to manipulate the magnetic field that surrounds a patient’s body. This approach is highly energy-based and heart-centered. It operates under an understanding of the power of touch to influence the human energy system.

Cupping

Cupping is a safe and effective healing technique that uses suction or heat vacuums to promote the release of toxins and other blockages to the lymphatic or digestive system. Cupping has been practiced for centuries and recent research supports the treatment’s effectiveness.

Some of the effects of supping can include:

  • A release of toxins
  • Activated lymphatic system
  • Cleared colon blockages
  • Clearing of veins, arteries, and capillaries
  • Activating skin and tissue up to four inches deep
  • Improve the appearance of stretch marks and varicose veins

Gua Sha

This ancient East Asian healing technique works by stroking the surface of the body with a specific instrument. It is used to remove obstructions and improve organ function.

Moxibustion

A type of heat therapy, the practice of moxibustion involves burning dried plants near the skin in order to invigorate the flow of Qi in the body. This type of therapy is practiced to help the body overcome pathologic influences.

The difference between myofascial bodywork and traditional massage

Myofascial bodywork uses a variety of ancient and heavily studied techniques to effect change on the surface and in the deep tissues of the body.

While many strokes and techniques are similar between both practices, myofascial bodywork techniques are slower and the pressure is more concentrated on specific areas of tension.

This makes it easier for the effects to work in the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue.

Other types of massage

Prenatal massage can help improve blood flow and promote healthy levels of oxygen and nutrients in the body. It can also help with digestion and tissue health for both the mother and child.

When the body is relaxed, it releases hormones that are scientifically proven to improve mood and cardiovascular health which are both critical for prenatal health and healthy fetal development.

If you’re pregnant and interested in massage or myofascial work, contact your local practitioner to learn which option is ideal for your unique needs.

Myofascial Bodywork and Massage in Bergen County, NJ

That concludes our guide to the differences between traditional massage and myofascial bodywork.

If you’re interested in booking an appointment with certified bodywork therapist Misty Kammarada, get in touch.