Massage is a holistic treatment method of the application of physical touch to affect the different systems of the body. These systems are primarily the muscular, skeletal, digestive, respiratory, circulatory, lymphatic, endocrine, mental, and nervous systems.

There are many different approaches and applications of Massage. Some examples are as follows:

  Deep Tissue - the more common soft tissue massage performed at Dr. Plotnikoff's office. Also known as "therapeutic". This approach is very intense and maybe painful although the benefits following treatment can be amazing especially followed by a Chiropractic adjustment.

  Shiatsu - a Japanese style of massage where the patient remains dressed and usually the patient is treated on the floor. Normally used as a system balancing treatment of all body functions. Works well with Acupuncture and Trigenics.

  Holistic Pulsing - once again the clothes are on and the patient is gently rocked resulting in the release of tension.

  Swedish - generally a whole body massage using oils on the skin to facilitate treatment.

  Aroma therapy - this form uses essential oils to enhance treatment by placing the oils to different parts of the body. Pure essential oils have amazing healing properties.

Dr. Plotnikoff encourages that you add a massage therapist to your health team. Regular massages are an excellent way to de-stress yourself. Dr. Plotnikoff explains in the following message:

"Our fast pace lifestyles cause more stress which leads to constant muscular tension. This tension reduces blood flow, vital oxygen, lymphatic flow, and nervous system flow to the muscles and organs. This can lead to the beginnings of constant pain and build up of toxins in the body. Tension can lead to fatigue, feeling of heaviness, aches and pains, and stiffness. This can precipitate to strains and injuries and place increased stress onto the vertebral joints causing unstable joints, new problems, and the need for repeated Chiropractic adjustments for the same problem." 

In addition Dr. Plotnikoff recommends massage prior to your Chiropractic adjustment to loosen the soft tissues to allow for an easy adjustment. Here are some other benefits of Massage therapy:

Improved circulation

Improved lymphatic drainage

Improve breathing function thereby increasing oxygen uptake

Detoxify the body

Improve muscle tone

Soothe and relax injuried muscle

Emotional release

Stress reducer

Relax the mind and body