Each therapeutic massage session at Restorative Massage Therapy is customized based on the client’s specific needs. Depending on the client’s concerns and goals for the session, most sessions will use a combination of the modalities listed below.
Massage Modalities:

Gentle work on the small muscles at the back of the neck (occipital muscles) can help relieve neck pain, tension headaches and migraines.
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- Swedish Massage – A great option for relaxation massage. The rhythmic motions and long, gliding strokes help improve blood flow. Kneading and circular motion with moderate to deep pressure and gentle stretching help reduce muscle tension.
- Myofascial Release – This slow paced, gentle work utilizes very slow compressions to help release the connective tissue (fascia). Often holding an area with gentle pressure for two minutes at a time, this approach allows the body to release deeply-held tension in a way that may provide longer-lasting results. No oils or lotions are used in this work.
- Acupressure for Massage – Acupressure focuses on relieving disruptions in the meridians, thus allowing energy to flow properly along the meridian channels (or rivers as some people call them) to restore proper function to the body. Often the massage therapist will hold one point for several minutes while massaging a corresponding point in another area of the body. Acupressure is a gentle method that is especially helpful for relieving muscular pain, headaches and backaches.
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage – Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a type of very gentle massage which encourages the natural drainage of the lymphatic fluid, which carries waste products away from muscle tissues. It is incredibly effective for reducing swelling and inflammation in a variety of conditions, including: lymphedema, autoimmune disorders (fibromyalgia, lupus, etc.) and especially congestion associated with seasonal allergies.
- Neuromuscular Therapy – The premise of Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) is that in muscles that have suffered some type of trauma, there may be small granules of that muscle fiber that have never recovered. The fibers around that injured muscle granule then go into a “guarding” mode to keep the area “safe.” These guarded areas are called a trigger point. By applying pinpoint pressure, the guarded fibers around that granule are enabled to release, restoring proper mobility to that area of the muscle. Trigger points can affect localized areas or may refer pain to another part of the body.
- CranioSacral Therapy – Craniosacral therapy (CST) uses gentle touch manipulation of your head, neck, and the bottom of your spine. Your neck, back, and hips will feel looser and freer.
- Prenatal Massage – Designed to help the expectant mother relax and find comfort in her ever-changing body, prenatal massage include special positioning with a mix of integrated massage therapy treatments. Learn more about Prenatal Massage Therapy and Postpartum Massage for after baby arrives.
- Thai Foot Massage – Thai Foot Massage technique that provides relaxation, balance in the body’s various systems, and healthy blood circulation. It can be wonderful for anyone who’s frequently on their feet or experiences aches in the lower legs and feet. Thai Foot Massage helps calves, ankles and feet feel more open and less compressed.
Gentle stretching during a massage session can help relieve tension and create a sense of openness and loosen stiff joints.