Deep tissue massage is effective for chronic neck pain, lower back pain, aches shoulders, as well as many more. This type of massage relieves pain and helps restore normal movement. We work on muscle knots, or areas of inner muscle tenderness. Our massage helps eliminate pain, balance your motion range, and improve flexibility and circulation. Massage therapy is good for problems such as painful knees, pulled hamstring, or aching elbow. Massage has also been proven to cause better recovery time and overall increase performance in competitive sports, including weight lifting.

We offer a variety of medical conditions and conservative pain management treatments. By applying pressure, kneading, and compressing the soft tissues and muscles of the body we help to find problem areas and help alleviate your symptoms or pain. This is usually a helpful treatment for sports injuries, car accidents, or workplace injuries. Massage therapy also has a healthy effect on the body and its wellness. Our massage therapy is the perfect treatment for those recovering from auto accidents or sports injuries. We offer physical rehabilitation to accompany our massage sessions. Your body is in our hands.

It tends to take time to fully achieve and maintain the benefits of massage and bodywork. Getting one massage once or twice a year may be relaxing, but it is not going to undo chronic pain or keep your muscle tissue supple and responsive.

Bodywork

Central to all forms of bodywork is the belief that there are blocks in the flow of energy and fields that indirectly cause disease, and which, when unblocked, result in a return to the state of health.

Bodywork is a general term for therapeutic methods based on touch that center on the body for the promotion of physical health and emotional and spiritual well-being. This includes massage, various systems of touch and deep tissue manipulation, movement awareness, relaxation techniques, and practices designed to affect the body’s energy balance.

It is known to improve bodily structure and function (e.g., circulation and relaxation), and/or as a therapeutic modality to reduce pain and heal damaged musculoskeletal units

Central to all forms of bodywork is the belief that there are blocks in the flow of energy and fields that indirectly cause disease, and which, when unblocked, result in a return to the state of health.

Bodywork encompasses many kinds of therapeutic touch, including massage, acupressure, Craniosacral Therapy, Reflexology, Reiki, and many more. There are almost 300 methods, according to the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals.

These include ancient healing techniques such as Shiatsu and Thai massage, along with modern methods that are often named after their creator—Rolfing Structural Integration, The Feldenkrais Method, and The Trager Approach.

Bodywork ranges from very gentle work where the therapist uses light or even no touch, as in Reiki, to more extreme modalities such as Rolfing. This uses physical manipulation of fascia to release old holding patterns and misalignments that are responsible for chronic discomfort and pain. Other methods are aimed at re-educating the body’s movement patterns to improve functionality.

Most types of bodywork share goals, such as relief from pain, improved function, freedom of movement, a balanced mind, and a heightened sense of body awareness, vitality and well-being. They also stress active participation in your own health and wellness.

Many people turn to regular bodywork because of chronic pain.

You may find that it takes a variety of bodywork methods to create lasting change. One method might take you to a certain point, and then it’s time to try something else. In many ways it’s your own path of healing, and you should participate in it.

Hot Stone Massage

This is a specialized treatment where we use smooth, heated stones to warm up tight muscles, so we can work on pressure points and problem areas to alleviate tension and stress. Hot stones may either be placed on the body or used as an extension of our hands. This allows the us to work more deeply and quickly.

This is the perfect way to relax, especially if you experience chronic muscle soreness.

Along with relieving tension, hot stone massage can help to promote sleep, relieve pain related to autoimmune disease, boost immunity, and even decrease cancer symptoms like fatigue, nausea, depression, and pain.

A hot stone massage takes a lot of skill and sensitivity on the part of the therapist. The quality of the treatment depends on how well the therapist has been trained, how skilled he or she is. Handling hot stones in a way that makes you comfortable is a difficult art to master.

Before you arrive, the massage therapist will sanitize the stones and heat them in a bath of 120 to 150-degree water. The stones themselves are usually basalt, a black volcanic rock that absorbs and retains heat well and has been smoothed by natural forces in the river or sea.

When you arrive, you will usually be asked to lay face down on a massage table. First, the therapist warms up the body with traditional Swedish massage, then massages you while holding a heated stone. As the stone cools, the therapist replaces it with another. The therapist uses many stones of various shapes and sizes—big ones on the big muscles, smaller ones on smaller muscles.

The therapist might also leave heated stones in specific points along your spine, in the palms of your hand, on your belly, or even between your toes to improve the flow of energy in your body.

Many therapists believe that the stones themselves have an energetic charge that needs to be maintained by placing them in a spiral pattern.

Be sure to speak up if the stones are too warm or the pressure too intense, and you can always ask them to stop using the stones if you don’t like how it feels. Additionally, if you like heat but not the stones, lava shells and steamed towels are another way to get heat into a massage.

A hot stone massage is more expensive than a basic Swedish massage because it requires more preparation and clean-up and usually requires more time with the therapist.

Hot stones warmed by a fire were originally used by Native Americans to treat aching muscles, but the modern revival of hot stones in massage is generally credited to Mary Nelson, a native of Tucson, Arizona, who trademarked her style of hot stone massage, called LaStone Therapy.

Hot Stone massage is not appropriate if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or are on medication that thins your blood. You shouldn’t get a hot stone massage if you are pregnant or have a sunburn, and you also may want to reconsider if you are menopausal, as it may trigger a hot flash.

Hydrotherapy Packs

Hydrotherapy has a fascinating history. It was a popular method of treatment for mental illness at the beginning of the twentieth century, and was used at many institutions, including the London Asylum for the Insane. Water was thought to be an effective treatment because it could be heated or cooled to variable temperatures. When it was applied to the skin, it could produce various reactions throughout the body.

One of the main benefits was its ability to take effect quickly. Hydrotherapy could be accomplished with baths, packs, or sprays.

Warm continuous baths were used to treat patients suffering from insomnia and those considered to be suicidal and assaultive. It calmed excited and agitated behaviour.

A patient could expect a continuous bath treatment to last from several hours to several days. Continuous baths were most effective when held in a quiet room with little light and audio stimulation. This allowed the patient to relax and possibly even fall asleep. Bath temperatures typically ranged from 92°F to 97°F, so as not to cause injury.

Packs consisted of sheets dipped in varying temperatures of water, which were then wrapped around the patient for several hours. Sprays functioned like showers and used either warm or cold water. Cold was used to treat patients diagnosed with manic-depressive psychoses, and those showing signs of excitement and acute motor activity. The application of cold water slowed down blood flow to the brain, decreasing mental and physical activity. The temperature for a cold pack ranged between 48°F and 70°F.

Today we use hydrocollator packs.

A hydrocollator is a stationary or mobile stainless-steel thermostatically controlled liquid heating device designed to heat bentonite-filled packs in water up to 160 degrees where the packs will be removed and wrapped in several layers of towelling and applied to the affected body area of a patient to relieve acute pain or relax certain muscle groups.

Lymph Massage

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a type of massage designed to encourage the natural drainage of the lymph, which carries waste products away from the tissues back toward the heart. The lymph system depends on intrinsic contractions of the smooth muscle cells in the walls of lymph vessels (peristalsis) and the movement of skeletal muscles to propel lymph through the vessels to lymph nodes and then to the lymph ducts which return it to the cardiovascular system. This technique uses a specific amount of pressure and rhythmic circular movements to stimulate lymph flow.

Mechanical Massage

This technique has many benefits that include improved circulation, reduced muscle tension and pain, increased lymphatic drainage and increased skin tone.

Poor circulation can lead to fatigue, illness and muscle ache. Mechanical massage stimulates the blood circulation by vibration and movement from specific techniques. The treatment creates friction that increases the number of capillaries and widens blood vessels. It assists in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system.

Regarding the reduction of muscular tension, the rhythmical action of mechanical massage stimulates the muscle fibres. This creates more movement in between then and relaxes the muscles. This is important regarding the reduction of pain and prevention of muscle spasms.

The simultaneous vibration and percussion movements also increase the lymph flow in the body. Stimulating the lymphatic system is important regarding draining out waste products and toxins from the body. Pain is also relieved due to the rapid removal of waste products such as lactic acid.

Mechanical massage benefits skin tone. It can help disperse fatty deposits and reduce the appearance of cellulite. The continuation of heavy pressure on the adipose tissue alongside increased circulation can improve the texture of skin.

Neuromuscular Technique

The most effective type of massage therapy for lower back pain is neuromuscular therapy. It is also referred to as trigger point myotherapy. The American Academy of Pain Management recognizes this as an effective treatment for back pain caused by soft tissue injury (such as a muscle strain).

The treatment consists of alternating levels of concentrated pressure on the areas in question. Pressure is usually applied with the fingers, knuckles, or elbow. Once applied, the pressure should not vary for ten to thirty seconds.

Muscles that are in spasm will be painful to the touch. This is caused by ischemic muscle tissue. Ischemia means the muscle is lacking proper blood flow due to the spasm. Because the muscle is not receiving enough blood, it is not receiving enough oxygen. The lack of oxygen causes the muscle to produce lactic acid. This acid makes the muscle feel sore following physical activity.

After the muscle is relaxed via massage therapy, the lactic acid will be released and the muscle should start acting normally.

Neuromuscular therapy will feel painful at first, but the pressure of the massage should alleviate the problem. At this point, it is extremely important to communicate with the massage therapist regarding the pressure – whether the pressure is too much, too little, getting better, getting worse. Massage therapy pressure should never be overly painful. In fact, most people describe the pressure as good pain.

Following a neuromuscular therapy massage, any soreness that presents itself should fade after twenty-four to thirty-six hours. The muscles that were tight should remain noticeably more relaxed. Recurrences depend on your level of stress etc.

Remedial Soft Tissue Technique

This method involves direct physical action on the muscle and other soft tissues of your body. It targets your muscles, tendons, ligaments, or other connective tissue.

This type massage includes a whole range of depth, pressure and duration. Your massage therapist is a professional who understands what techniques are right for your body at any given time. The aim is to alleviate aches, pains and injuries.

Swedish and deep tissue massage are two of the most known soft tissue techniques.

Our soft tissue massage aids in relaxing muscles, improves the healing time of strained ligaments and muscular tissue, improves range of motion and joint flexibility, strengthens the immune system, improves oxygen flow, increases blood circulation and lymph flow, reduces the inflammation of joints and heart rate, releases endorphins, decreases muscle spasms and helps to relieve muscle tension.

Swedish Massage Trigger (or Myodysneuric) Point Therapy

A trigger point is a tight area within muscle tissue that causes pain in other parts of the body. A trigger point in the back, for example, may produce pain in the neck. The neck, now acting as a satellite trigger point, may then cause pain in the head. The pain may be sharp and intense or a dull ache.

Trigger point massage therapy is specifically designed to alleviate the source of the pain through cycles of isolated pressure and release. You actively participate through deep breathing as well as identifying the exact location and intensity of the discomfort.

The results and benefits of trigger point massage flow from releasing the constricted areas in the muscles, thus alleviating pain. You should experience a significant decrease in pain after just one treatment. Receiving this type massage on a regular basis can helps to manage pain and stress, particularly from chronic injuries.

Swedish massage and deep tissue massage are two popular, yet distinct therapeutic approaches designed to address different needs and preferences.

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is often characterized as a gentle, overall relaxation technique. It involves a series of flowing strokes and light to medium pressure applied across most of the body. Key techniques include:

Effleurage: Long, gliding strokes that help warm up the muscles and improve circulation.

Petrissage: Gentle kneading and rolling that can alleviate muscle tension.

Tapotement: Rhythmic tapping or percussive movements that energize the muscles.

Vibration: Shaking or trembling movements intended to relax muscles further.

This style is ideal for those seeking stress relief, improved blood circulation, or simply a relaxing experience. It’s particularly suited to individuals new to massage or those who prefer a lighter touch.

Deep Tissue Massage

By contrast, deep tissue massage targets the underlying layers of muscles and connective tissue using slower, more focused strokes. Its techniques are designed to:

Break down muscle adhesions: The therapist uses concentrated pressure to release chronic muscle knots or “trigger points.”

Enhance mobility: By working deeply into tension areas, it may help restore movement and alleviate chronic pain.

Address specific issues: It’s often recommended for conditions such as chronic back or neck pain, sports injuries, or postural strains.

Deep tissue massage sessions may feel more intense and, at times, slightly uncomfortable due to the deeper pressure applied. However, many find it beneficial for long-term relief from persistent muscle tightness and discomfort.

Choosing the Right Approach

Swedish massage is excellent for overall relaxation, stress management, and gentle muscle stimulation.

Deep tissue massage is better suited for targeting chronic muscle tension, pain, and postural issues, especially if specific problem areas require focused attention.

Both massage types are highly adaptable to individual needs. It’s important to communicate with Savannah about your pressure preferences and any areas of concern so the session can be tailored appropriately.

Neuromuscular Deep Tissue (NDT) therapy is a hands-on treatment designed to target deeper layers of muscle and associated fascial tissues.

This approach uses slow, firm pressure as well as friction and cross-fiber massage techniques to release chronic tension, break down adhesions, and improve overall neuromuscular function.

I often assess posture and movement patterns, aiming not only to reduce pain but also to restore balanced muscle activation and improve mobility.

While this approach is broad—addressing overall muscle structure along with the interplay between muscles and nerves—it is especially beneficial for those suffering from chronic muscular pain, sports injuries, or repetitive strain that has led to long-term tissue stiffness or misalignment.

In practice, neuromuscular deep tissue work may incorporate elements of myofascial release, helping to re-establish proper tissue alignment and promote an enduring improvement in movement patterns.

Trigger Point Therapy (TPT)

Trigger point therapy focuses on resolving localized hyperirritable spots within muscle tissue—commonly known as trigger points or “knots.” These small nodules within tense bands of muscle fibers can cause not only local pain but often refer discomfort to other areas of the body.

In TPT, we identify these specific points through palpation and applied, focused, sustained pressure until a local twitch response is observed. This twitch often signals a release of tension, easing spasms and reducing pain.

Trigger point therapy is widely used to treat chronic issues such as tension headaches, neck and shoulder pain, low back pain, and conditions related to muscle overuse.

By addressing both the symptom (the pain) and, ideally, the underlying causes (such as poor posture or repetitive strain), TPT can help restore a more balanced muscle function and improve overall range of motion.

Techniques from trigger point therapy are often incorporated into a broader deep tissue treatment session to support long-term relief.

How They Complement Each Other

Both neuromuscular deep tissue therapy and trigger point therapy share the common goal of alleviating chronic muscular tension and improving neuromuscular coordination.

However, whereas neuromuscular therapy typically takes the more comprehensive approach of evaluating overall muscular balance, posture, and movement patterns; trigger point therapy zeroes in on specific, localized areas of muscle overactivity.

Many skilled practitioners blend these techniques into a single session, tailoring the treatment to address both the widespread tension and the pinpointed trigger points that contribute to pain.

With a customized combination of methods, these therapies can offer both immediate relief and lasting improvements in muscle function, thereby reducing the likelihood of recurring issues.

MR is a hands-on therapeutic technique that targets fascia; a wide web of connective tissue enveloping your muscles, bones, nerves, and organs. It works to release tension, improve mobility, and alleviate pain.

At its core, this method recognizes that fascia can become tight or restricted due to injury, repetitive stress, poor posture, or accumulated trauma, potentially leading to discomfort and reduced range of motion.

Fascia is a continuous, fibrous network that supports and stabilizes your entire body. When this tissue becomes stiff or stuck, it can create knots or trigger points thereby compounding pain and impairing movement. Myofascial release techniques aim to gently warm up and stretch the fascia, encouraging it to return to a more pliable, natural state. Think of it as un-wrinkling a tightly crumpled piece of fabric. The process can restore both function and comfort.

During a myofascial release session, Savannah uses slow, sustained pressure (often with hands, elbows, or specialized tools) to identify and ease areas of tightness.

Unlike deep tissue massages that use short, intense bursts of pressure, myofascial release typically involves gentle, steady holds that allow the fascia to ‘melt’ into a more relaxed state over time.

This method is not about causing pain. Rather, it is centered on a subtle, exploratory touch that invites the tissues to fully let go of built-up restrictions.

Active cupping is a dynamic twist on traditional cupping therapy that harnesses not only the suction from the cups but also the benefits of active movement during the session.

For the traditional method, cups are applied to the skin to create negative pressure that draws the tissues upward; this process aims to boost blood flow, relieve muscle tension, and promote healing.

Active cupping goes further by having you engage in movement while the cups are on, which actively mobilizes the underlying fascia and muscles. This dynamic element helps to further break down any adhesions between the fascia and muscle tissue, potentially leading to improved mobility and reduced stiffness.

Savannah will guide you through specific movements that target your areas of limited mobility. These movements not only enhance the separation of the fascia from the underlying muscles but also help the body to “remember” the new, improved range of motion.

Treatment often leaves minor visible circular marks or bruises that fade relatively quickly. I am more than happy to discuss it with you.

From a Western medicine perspective, active cupping is based on the idea that the human body is a layered structure: Skin first, followed by subcutaneous fat, fascia, and then muscle.

Over time, due to inactivity, inflammation, or repetitive strain, the fascia (connective tissue that wraps your muscles) can become “stuck” to the muscles, limiting the range of motion.

When the cups are applied, their suction lifts the combined layers of skin, fat, and fascia.

By then moving actively, you encourage the fascia to glide over the muscle tissue, releasing the adhesions that are often responsible for tightness or restricted motion.

The result is frequently a sensation of looseness and improved movement shortly after a session, with effects that can last for days or even longer.

In practice, active cupping sessions should be guided by a trained therapist who will first apply the cups to target areas.

Active cupping is particularly popular among athletes, people recovering from injuries, and those who simply want to improve their everyday mobility.

Some people find that integrating active cupping into their broader self-care routine, along with other techniques like massage, stretching, or strength training, provides a compounded benefit that supports overall musculoskeletal health.

If you’re curious about how this technique could specifically help you, consider discussing it with me, as I can tailor the session to your individual needs and movement patterns.

We can explore how active cupping can work in tandem with other movement-based therapies or perhaps discuss protocols for post-cupping exercises to maintain the gains in mobility!

– Savannah

Happenstance often brings change. For me, it was the breaking of an ankle. I was a long-term competitive dancer and extremely active as a person. That was now on hold, if I was lucky.

Healing this type of injury can be complex and painful.

Massage Therapy seemed to be the one treatment that helped. It didn’t just make me feel better. The sessions relaxed me and the swelling decreased. More mobility and flexibility in the joint and surrounding tissues was created by the treatment.

I found my calling!

I enrolled at the Ashland Institute of Massage and trained under incredible and experienced LMTs.

Upon graduating my journey took me to work at a wellness clinic for several years. There, I advanced my knowledge and honed my skills.

On a personal level I enjoy a simple life with an emphasis on reading, hiking and travel.

The most important things in my life are my family, friends and my pet.

Someday, I wish to be a published author and hopefully raise my own family.

I look forward to working with you on ‘your’ recovery & wellness journey!