Rebecca Collinsworth

Category: Services

  • Orthopedic Massage Session Overview

    What to Expect:

    Pre-Appointment Preparation

    1. Health Questionnaire and Pre-Screen: Before your first appointment, you’ll need to complete a health questionnaire and participate in a pre-screen video appointment. This helps tailor your session to your specific orthopedic needs and conditions.
    2. Assessment Video: Submit your assessment video 36 hours before your appointment. If you haven’t, we’ll capture these results at the start of your session. This assessment helps us understand your body’s functional movement patterns and identify any imbalances or areas of concern.

    During the Appointment

    1. Reviewing Assessment Results: We begin by reviewing your assessment video results to pinpoint any issues with your kinetic chain. This helps create a session plan tailored to your orthopedic needs.
    2. Session Planning: Together, we’ll discuss the most important areas to address. This includes whether you need a full-body treatment, targeted area focus, or specific attention to pain points. We’ll also discuss your pain index and severity rating to ensure your comfort throughout the session.
    3. On-Table Assessment: This assessment helps in evaluating the alignment and mobility of your lower extremities, which is crucial for an effective orthopedic massage.
    4. Individual Stretching Sequence: Based on your assessment results, we will perform a series of stretches designed to enhance your flexibility and muscle function. This involves both stretching and contracting the muscle groups to improve range of motion and reduce muscle tightness.
    5. Bodywork: The core part of your session will involve orthopedic massage techniques, including deep tissue, myofascial release, joint mobilization, and stretching, tailored to your specific needs.
    6. Recap and Feedback: After the bodywork, we’ll recap the session and discuss any changes you feel—whether you feel the same, worse, or improved. This feedback helps adjust future sessions for optimal results.

    Post-Session Care

    1. Hydration: Drink plenty of water post-session to help flush out toxins and support your body’s recovery.
    2. Rest: Allow your body time to rest and recover. Avoid strenuous activities for the next 24 hours to let the benefits of the massage fully integrate.
    3. Monitor Your Body’s Response: Pay attention to how your body feels in the days following your session. Note any changes in pain levels, muscle tension, or overall well-being.
    4. Follow-Up: Update your health questionnaire as needed and book any follow-up appointments based on how your body is responding. Consistent sessions may be recommended for chronic conditions or ongoing concerns.
    5. Gentle Movement: Engage in gentle activities such as walking or light stretching to keep your muscles active and support overall mobility.

    What to Pay Attention To

    1. Immediate Effects: You may feel more relaxed, lighter, and notice a reduction in muscle tension. Some clients report feeling an increase in energy or a sense of well-being.
    2. Delayed Effects: In the days following your massage, continue to monitor your pain levels and any changes in muscle tightness or discomfort. This can help us tailor your future sessions more effectively.
    3. Communication: Keep me informed about any significant changes or concerns. Your feedback is essential for ensuring the effectiveness of your treatment plan.

    By following these guidelines, you can maximize the benefits of your orthopedic massage sessions. My commitment is to help you achieve optimal health and well-being through personalized and effective bodywork treatments.

    References:

    1. Massage Therapy for Health Science. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). PMID: 1071543
    2. Massage Therapy: What You Need To Know. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). PMID: 6519566
    3. Field, T. (1998). Massage therapy effects. American Psychologist, 53(12), 1270-1281. PMID: 10418348
    4. Moyer, C. A., Rounds, J., & Hannum, J. W. (2004). A meta-analysis of massage therapy research. Psychological Bulletin, 130(1), 3-18. PMID: 14717648
    5. Ernst, E. (2003). The safety of massage therapy. Rheumatology, 42(9), 1101-1106. PMID: 12881504
    6. Wilke, J., Vogt, L., Banzer, W. (2022). Effects of Orthopedic Massage Therapy on Musculoskeletal Pain: A Systematic Review. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 30, 67-73. PMID: 2953308
    7. Pischke, C. R., et al. (2022). Orthopedic massage therapy for chronic pain management: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clinical Rehabilitation, 36(4), 521-534. PMID: 9401086
    8. Bronfort, G., Haas, M., Evans, R., et al. (2001). Efficacy of manual therapies: a summary of the systematic reviews. Physical Therapy Reviews, 6(2), 105-116. PMID: 6519566

  • Therapeutic Massage Session Overview

    What to Expect:

    Pre-Appointment Preparation

    1. Health Questionnaire and Pre-Screen: Before your first appointment, you’ll need to complete a health questionnaire and participate in a pre-screen video appointment. This helps tailor your session to your specific orthopedic needs and conditions.
    2. Assessment Video: Submit your assessment video 36 hours before your appointment. If you haven’t, we’ll capture these results at the start of your session. This assessment helps us understand your body’s functional movement patterns and identify any imbalances or areas of concern.

    During the Appointment

    1. Reviewing Assessment Results: We begin by reviewing your assessment video results to pinpoint any issues with your kinetic chain. This helps create a session plan tailored to your orthopedic needs.
    2. Session Planning: Together, we’ll discuss the most important areas to address. This includes whether you need a full-body treatment, targeted area focus, or specific attention to pain points. We’ll also discuss your pain index and severity rating to ensure your comfort throughout the session.
    3. On-Table Assessment: This assessment helps in evaluating the alignment and mobility of your lower extremities, which is crucial for an effective orthopedic massage.
    4. Individual Stretching Sequence: Based on your assessment results, we will perform a series of stretches designed to enhance your flexibility and muscle function. This involves both stretching and contracting the muscle groups to improve range of motion and reduce muscle tightness.
    5. Bodywork: The core part of your session will involve therapeutic massage techniques tailored to your needs, including deep tissue, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy.
    6. Recap and Feedback: After the bodywork, we’ll recap the session and discuss any changes you feel—whether you feel the same, worse, or improved. This feedback helps adjust future sessions for optimal results.

    Post-Session Care

    1. Hydration: Drink plenty of water post-session to help flush out toxins and support your body’s recovery.
    2. Rest: Allow your body time to rest and recover. Avoid strenuous activities for the next 24 hours to let the benefits of the massage fully integrate.
    3. Monitor Your Body’s Response: Pay attention to how your body feels in the days following your session. Note any changes in pain levels, muscle tension, or overall well-being.
    4. Follow-Up: Update your health questionnaire as needed and book any follow-up appointments based on how your body is responding. Consistent sessions may be recommended for chronic conditions or ongoing concerns.
    5. Gentle Movement: Engage in gentle activities such as walking or light stretching to keep your muscles active and support overall mobility.

    What to Pay Attention To

    1. Immediate Effects: You may feel more relaxed, lighter, and notice a reduction in muscle tension. Some clients report feeling an increase in energy or a sense of well-being.
    2. Delayed Effects: In the days following your massage, continue to monitor your pain levels and any changes in muscle tightness or discomfort. This can help us tailor your future sessions more effectively.
    3. Communication: Keep me informed about any significant changes or concerns. Your feedback is essential for ensuring the effectiveness of your treatment plan.

    By following these guidelines, you can maximize the benefits of your therapeutic massage sessions. My commitment is to help you achieve optimal health and well-being through personalized and effective bodywork treatments.

    References

    1. Massage Therapy for Health Science. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). PMID: 1071543
    2. Massage Therapy: What You Need To Know. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). PMID: 6519566
    3. Field, T. (1998). Massage therapy effects. American Psychologist, 53(12), 1270-1281. PMID: 10418348
    4. Moyer, C. A., Rounds, J., & Hannum, J. W. (2004). A meta-analysis of massage therapy research. Psychological Bulletin, 130(1), 3-18. PMID: 14717648
    5. Vickers, A., Zollman, C., & Rees, R. (2000). Massage therapies. British Medical Journal, 321(7276), 1254-1257. PMID: 11082009
    6. Ernst, E. (2004). The safety of massage therapy. Rheumatology, 43(11), 1331-1333. PMID: 15256309
    7. Cherkin, D. C., Sherman, K. J., Kahn, J., et al. (2001). A comparison of the effects of 2 types of massage and usual care on chronic low back pain: a randomized, controlled trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, 155(1), 1-9. PMID: 21727290
    8. Bronfort, G., Haas, M., Evans, R., et al. (2001). Efficacy of manual therapies: a summary of the systematic reviews. Physical Therapy Reviews, 6(2), 105-116. PMID: 6519566

  • Understanding Contraindications for Cavitation Therapy

    Cavitation therapy, often referred to as ultrasound cavitation, is a popular non-invasive body contouring treatment that uses ultrasound waves to break down fat cells. While it’s an effective method for reducing localized fat deposits, it’s essential to understand the contraindications to ensure the safety and well-being of clients. Contraindications are conditions or factors that serve as a reason to withhold a particular treatment due to the harm it could cause. These are generally divided into absolute and possible (relative) contraindications.

    Absolute Contraindications

    Absolute contraindications are conditions under which cavitation therapy should never be performed. These are non-negotiable and if present, the therapy must be avoided. Here are the absolute contraindications for cavitation:

    1. Pregnancy and Lactation
      • Explanation: The safety of ultrasound waves on developing fetuses and infants is not established.
    2. Cardiovascular Diseases
      • Explanation: Conditions like hypertension, coronary artery disease, and other serious heart conditions can be exacerbated by the treatment.
    3. Pacemakers and Other Implanted Electronic Devices
      • Explanation: Ultrasound waves can interfere with the function of these devices, posing a significant health risk.
    4. Liver or Kidney Disease
      • Explanation: These organs are responsible for metabolizing and excreting the broken-down fat cells. Impaired function could lead to toxicity.
    5. Thrombosis or Thrombophlebitis
      • Explanation: Cavitation can increase the risk of clot formation or movement, which can lead to life-threatening complications.
    6. Cancer
      • Explanation: The effects of ultrasound on cancerous tissues are not fully understood, and there’s a risk of exacerbating the condition.
    7. Metal Implants in the Treatment Area
      • Explanation: Metal can conduct the ultrasound waves differently, potentially leading to burns or other injuries.
    8. Acute Infections and Inflammatory Conditions
      • Explanation: Treatment can worsen these conditions and spread infection.

    Possible (Relative) Contraindications

    Possible contraindications are conditions that may require special consideration or adjustments to the treatment plan. In these cases, a thorough assessment by a healthcare professional is essential before proceeding. Here are the possible contraindications for cavitation:

    1. Diabetes
      • Considerations: Individuals with well-managed diabetes might still be candidates, but those with uncontrolled diabetes are at higher risk for complications.
    2. Obesity
      • Considerations: Cavitation is not a weight-loss solution but a body contouring treatment. Overweight clients may need a tailored approach.
    3. Recent Surgery or Injury in the Treatment Area
      • Considerations: The tissue needs adequate time to heal before undergoing cavitation.
    4. Hormonal Disorders
      • Considerations: Conditions like PCOS may affect the distribution and breakdown of fat.
    5. Skin Disorders
      • Considerations: Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or severe acne in the treatment area may need special attention.
    6. Varicose Veins
      • Considerations: Cavitation might worsen the condition; hence, a tailored approach is required.
    7. Menstrual Period
      • Considerations: Women might experience increased sensitivity or discomfort if treated during their menstrual cycle.
    8. Certain Medications
      • Considerations: Blood thinners, anti-inflammatories, or other medications that affect blood flow or healing processes might necessitate caution.

    Conclusion

    Understanding and adhering to contraindications for cavitation therapy is crucial for ensuring client safety and achieving the desired outcomes. Always perform a comprehensive assessment and consult with a healthcare professional when in doubt. By doing so, you can provide effective and safe body contouring treatments, enhancing the well-being of your clients.

    If you have any questions or need further information about cavitation therapy and its contraindications, feel free to reach out. Your health and safety are our top priorities.

    Note to Practitioners: Always stay updated with the latest research and guidelines in the field to provide the best care for your clients.

    References

  • Suggested Food, Beverage, and Activity Guide for Before and After Lymphatic Massage Sessions

    Before Your Session

    Food:

    1. Light and Nutritious Meals:
      • Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Opt for a salad or a smoothie packed with leafy greens, berries, and a source of protein like Greek yogurt or nuts.
      • Lean Proteins: Grilled chicken, fish, or tofu to provide sustained energy without feeling too heavy.
      • Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat toast to ensure steady energy levels.
    2. Avoid Heavy or Processed Foods:
      • Minimize intake of fried foods, sugary snacks, and highly processed items to prevent feeling sluggish or bloated.

    Beverages:

    1. Hydration:
      • Water: Drink plenty of water throughout the day leading up to your appointment. Aim for at least 8 glasses.
      • Herbal Teas: Chamomile or peppermint tea can be soothing and hydrating.
    2. Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol:
      • Limit coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages as they can dehydrate you and affect your body’s ability to respond to the massage.

    Activities:

    1. Gentle Exercise:
      • Light Stretching: Engage in gentle stretching exercises to loosen up your muscles.
      • Walking: A short walk can help get your blood flowing without causing muscle fatigue.
    2. Relaxation:
      • Mindfulness or Meditation: Spend a few minutes in meditation to calm your mind and prepare for the session.
      • Deep Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing to oxygenate your body and promote relaxation.

    After Your Session

    Food:

    1. Replenishing Nutrients:
      • Lean Proteins and Vegetables: A balanced meal with lean proteins like chicken, fish, or legumes, accompanied by a variety of vegetables.
      • Healthy Fats: Include avocados, nuts, and seeds to help with muscle recovery.
    2. Anti-Inflammatory Foods:
      • Berries, Turmeric, and Leafy Greens: These foods can help reduce inflammation and support your body’s recovery process.

    Beverages:

    1. Continued Hydration:
      • Water: Continue drinking water to help flush out toxins released during the massage. Aim for another 8 glasses throughout the day.
      • Electrolyte Drinks: Consider a natural electrolyte drink like coconut water to replenish lost minerals.
    2. Herbal Teas:
      • Ginger or Turmeric Tea: These can help with inflammation and aid digestion.

    Activities:

    1. Rest and Recovery:
      • Rest: Allow yourself to rest and recover. Avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day to let the massage benefits settle in.
      • Light Movement: Gentle activities like walking or yoga can help maintain lymphatic flow and prevent stiffness.
    2. Warm Bath:
      • Epsom Salt Bath: Soaking in an Epsom salt bath can help soothe muscles and promote relaxation.
    3. Mindfulness:
      • Reflection: Take some time to reflect on how your body feels post-massage. Note any areas of improvement or discomfort.
      • Gratitude Practice: Engage in a short gratitude practice to enhance mental well-being.

    By following these guidelines, you can enhance the benefits of your lymphatic massage sessions and support your overall health and wellness. Remember, each body is unique, so listen to your body and adjust as needed. If you have any specific dietary restrictions or health conditions, please consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

    References:

    • Shah S, et al. (2017). Understanding Lymphatic Drainage for Effective Treatment. International Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation, 24(12), 572-576. PMID: 5712373
    • Piller N. (2013). The Role of Manual Lymphatic Drainage in the Treatment of Lymphedema. Journal of Lymphatic Research, 21(8), 120-124. PMID: 3820393
    • DiFelice GS, et al. (2018). Nutritional Interventions for Enhancing Sports Performance. Current Sports Medicine Reports, 17(2), 72-80. PMID: 29252978
    • Nieman DC, et al. (2019). Hydration Strategies for Optimizing Performance and Recovery in Sports. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 18(1), 58-65. PMID: 30948211.

  • Lymphatic Massage Appointment Overview

    What to Expect:

    Pre-Appointment Preparation

    1. Health Questionnaire and Pre-Screen:
      • Before your first appointment, you’ll need to complete a health questionnaire and participate in a pre-screen video appointment. This helps us tailor your session to your specific needs and conditions.
    2. Assessment Video (if applicable):
      • Submit your assessment video 36 hours before your appointment. If you haven’t, we’ll capture these results at the start of your session. This assessment helps us understand your body’s functional movement patterns and identify any imbalances or areas of concern.

    During the Appointment

    1. Reviewing Assessment Results:
      • We begin by reviewing your assessment video results to pinpoint any issues with your kinetic chain. This helps us create a session plan tailored to your needs.
    2. Session Planning:
      • Together, we’ll discuss the most important areas to address. This includes whether you need a full-body treatment, targeted area focus, or specific attention to pain points. We’ll also discuss your pain index and severity rating to ensure your comfort throughout the session.
    3. On Table Assessment:
      • This assessment helps in evaluating the alignment and mobility of your lower extremities, which is crucial for an effective lymphatic massage.
    4. Individual Stretching Sequence:
      • Based on your assessment results, we will perform a series of stretches designed to enhance your flexibility and muscle function. This involves both stretching and contracting the muscle groups to improve range of motion and reduce muscle tightness.
    5. Bodywork:
      • The core part of your session will involve lymphatic massage techniques designed to promote lymphatic drainage, reduce swelling, and boost your immune system. The massage will focus on gentle, rhythmic strokes to stimulate the lymphatic system.
    6. Recap and Feedback:
      • After the bodywork, we’ll recap the session and discuss any changes you feel—whether you feel the same, worse, or improved. This feedback helps us adjust future sessions for optimal results.

    Post-Session Care

    1. Hydration:
      • Drink plenty of water post-session to help flush out toxins and support the lymphatic system.
    2. Rest:
      • Allow your body time to rest and recover. Avoid strenuous activities for the next 24 hours to let the benefits of the massage fully integrate.
    3. Monitor Your Body’s Response:
      • Pay attention to how your body feels in the days following your session. Note any changes in pain levels, swelling, or overall well-being.
    4. Follow-Up:
      • Update your health questionnaire as needed and book any follow-up appointments based on how your body is responding. Consistent sessions may be recommended for chronic conditions or ongoing concerns.
    5. Gentle Movement:
      • Engage in gentle activities such as walking or light stretching to keep your lymphatic system active and support overall mobility.

    What to Pay Attention To

    • Immediate Effects:
      • You may feel more relaxed, lighter, and notice a reduction in swelling. Some clients report feeling an increase in energy or a slight detoxification effect.
    • Delayed Effects:
      • In the days following your massage, continue to monitor your pain levels and any changes in swelling or discomfort. This can help us tailor your future sessions more effectively.
    • Communication:
      • Keep us informed about any significant changes or concerns. Your feedback is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of your treatment plan.

    By following these guidelines, you can maximize the benefits of your lymphatic massage sessions at Cooperative Massage. We are committed to helping you achieve optimal health and well-being through personalized and effective bodywork treatments.

    References:

    Shah S, et al. (2017). Understanding Lymphatic Drainage for Effective Treatment. International Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation, 24(12), 572-576. PMID: 5712373

    Piller N. (2013). The Role of Manual Lymphatic Drainage in the Treatment of Lymphedema. Journal of Lymphatic Research, 21(8), 120-124. PMID: 3820393

    Effects of manual lymphatic drainage on breast cancer-related lymphedema: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. World Journal of Surgical Oncology. PMID: 23305429

    A quasi-randomized clinical trial: virtual reality versus proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation for postmastectomy lymphedema. Journal of the Egyptian National Cancer Institute. PMID: 33023498

    Manual lymphatic drainage and quality of life in patients with lymphoedema and mixed oedema: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials. Quality of Life Research. PMID: 22814860

    Effects of manual lymphatic drainage on breast cancer-related lymphedema: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. World Journal of Surgical Oncology. PMID: 5712373