Deep tissue massage uses firm pressure and slow strokes to target deeper muscle layers and connective tissues, aiming to release chronic tension, knots (adhesions), and stiffness from overuse or injury, unlike lighter massages focused solely on relaxation, though it still promotes relaxation and mental unwinding.
At your first appointment, the chiropractor will assess your symptoms to determine whether chiropractic care is suitable for you and what techniques are likely to help.
Chiropractors use different techniques to treat problems with the muscles and joints, including:
- Spinal manipulation – applying controlled force to the joints of the spine and neck.
- Short, precise thrusting movements.
- Gradually moving your joints into
different positions.
- Pulling or stretching your muscles in different directions.
A Swedish massage is a popular, gentle full-body treatment using long, flowing strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, and vibration with oil or lotion to relax the entire body, improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, and promote overall well-being, focusing on the superficial tissues for deep relaxation. It's often recommended for massage beginners due to its soothing, less intense approach compared to deep tissue massage.
Physiotherapy is a treatment that can ease pain and improve movement if you have an injury, illness or disability. It uses exercise, massage and other techniques.
Physiotherapy is also often used to help improve your movement, strength and stamina after having surgery.
People of all ages can have physiotherapy, including children and older people.
A sports massage is a specialised manual therapy for anyone involved in physical activity, using deep tissue manipulation, stretching, and other techniques to enhance athletic performance, speed recovery, prevent injuries, and treat muscle imbalances or soreness from training or daily stress. Unlike relaxation massages, it focuses on specific muscle groups and aims to restore normal movement, break down scar tissue, improve circulation, and reduce tension, often tailored to individual needs like pre-event prep or post-injury rehab.
Reflexology is a technique that applies gentle pressure to your feet or hands. It aims to bring about a state of relaxation and help the body's own healing process.
Reflexology works in a similar way to acupressure and acupuncture.
Reflexologists believe there are certain points on the feet and hands that correspond to the organs and glands in the body. So by pressing and massaging these points it can stimulate energy pathways in the body.
Smooth, flat stones made of basalt (volcanic rock) which are heated and used by the therapist to massage the muscles, promoting deep relaxation, improving circulation, and relieving deeper tension.
Involves applying gentle pressure and circular movements on the scalp to relieve tension, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. It can also help relieve tension headaches and migraines.
Involves applying pressure to specific areas of the feet to relieve tension, improve circulation, and treat conditions like plantar fasciitis.
