Does driving in your car for hours on the way to Destin make your lower back and hips feel tight?
Yes, muscles that remain in a short static position for a prolonged time period need to be activated.
Why do my neck and shoulders hurt when I’m sitting at my desk?
More than likely, there is an uneven skeletal load between vertebrae and scapula. Muscles are also hampered by having certain muscle groups in a continually contracted position.
When I start an exercise program, why do I feel like my body is stiff, sore, and sometimes less coordinated?
DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) is common when loads, duration, and repetition are increased too much. The body does not have enough recuperation time between workouts.
Does massage therapy help when my stress levels are high?
Yes, a Swedish massage helps relax the central nervous system.
Why does kyphotic posture lead to neck and shoulder pain?
Certain muscle groups are put on an eccentric holding pattern.
When I sit at my desk, why does my range of motion feel limited when I turn my neck?
Chances are, your head is in a forward head posture position. This causes the geometrical angle of the facet joints (zygapophyseal) to not articulate at an optimal angle for rotation.
What can I do to maintain or improve my spinal health?
It is important to practice proper control of pelvic tilt, hip hinge, positioning of the knees, and proper ankle flexion (dorsiflexion). All of these can help take excessive loads off of the spinal musculature.
What can I do to improve my overall posture?
Start walking with a conscious effort to keep your shoulders back and engage your core muscles. Over time, releasing tight muscles through foam rolling and consciously engaging weaker muscles can help establish healthier movement patterns.
Why does my lower back ache?
Aside from a pathological condition that may be present, pelvic tilt (anterior, neutral, or posterior) has a direct impact on how much load is imposed on the lower lumbar spine.
How can massage therapy help improve your posture as you age?
By relaxing and releasing tension in tight muscles, you may find it easier to stand up straighter and move more efficiently.
Is it common to experience soreness after a massage?
Yes. If you do not get massages regularly, you may experience some muscle soreness after a massage. As your body becomes more accustomed to massage therapy, you may experience less post-massage soreness.
How do I know how much pressure I need for a massage?
If it is your first massage, try a Swedish massage. Use that as a baseline for determining how much pressure feels comfortable for you. You can always communicate with your therapist if you would prefer more or less pressure.
Should I experience pain or discomfort during my massage?
Generally, no. However, if you are receiving a deep tissue massage to address knots, adhesions, and muscle tissue, there may be brief periods of discomfort. You should always communicate with your therapist and let them know if they should decrease the amount of pressure until you are comfortable.
Should I experience bruising after a massage?
Usually, no. However, if you have sensitive skin and the therapist is providing deeper pressure to relieve areas of tension, occasional bruising may occur. Certain treatments, such as cupping, can also temporarily leave visible marks.
I feel like I have knots in my muscles. Do I want a Swedish massage?
Probably not if addressing muscle knots is your primary goal. Swedish massage typically uses lighter pressure and long, flowing strokes and is primarily intended for relaxation. A deeper or more targeted massage may be more appropriate for addressing knots and adhesions in muscle tissue.
My upper body feels like it needs the most work. Do I need to have a full-body massage?
No. In many cases, a full massage session can be focused on the upper body if that is where you need the most attention. However, a full-body massage can help relax a greater number of muscle groups. Discuss your goals with your massage therapist before your session begins.
I have a lot of muscle tension in my upper shoulders and back. The last therapist I had hurt me when they were trying to loosen the tissue. Is that okay?
Not if you were uncomfortable throughout the massage. Pressure should always remain within your tolerance. Limited breathing, holding your breath, or clenching your fists or toes can all indicate that the pressure is too deep at that time. Do not hesitate to ask your therapist to lighten the pressure. Communication is an important part of a comfortable and effective massage.