In the wide range of modalities within massage therapy, New York City has an abundance of bodyworkers whose skills are both general and highly specialized. When most people think of massage, they usually think of back and neck or full body massages. Most people don't even realize that they can get highly specific massages that hone in on one area or a few areas that could use a little extra attention. This technique is aptly called focus massage. NYC has some wonderful practitioners who use this method on athletes, people who have been injured, post-surgery patients, or people experiencing chronic pain.
Focus massage addresses the client's specific medical concerns by applying focus to a few areas of the body, rather than the whole body. You might be asking yourself, "Why would I want to get just a few areas massaged when I can get my whole body massaged?" The answer is simple: focus massage is better for specific areas, especially if there is a chronic issue. Focus treatments provide the proper care and intensity for problem areas. Since all of the time is concentrated on one or a few specific spots, you may not need as many focus sessions. Therefore, you should never feel as if you're cheating your body out of a full massage; rather, you are merely taking time out to favor those problem areas, which should make you feel better overall.
The following are some examples of areas where focus massage can be really beneficial: neck and shoulders (headaches or neck pain), mid back (general back pain), low back and/or glutes (sciatic issues), hip flexors (contribute to low back pain and "sway back" posture), arms (carpal tunnel problems), hamstrings and calves (also contribute to low back issues).
Did you know that there is really no such thing as a full body deep tissue massage? A focus massage is a true deep tissue massage. When you're deciding what kind of massage you want, think about what your body needs the most. The idea of a full body massage probably appeals to you more, but given such brief attention, will it really help the stiffness in your neck, or the recurring leg cramps? A full body massage feels amazing, but you'll be much happier in the long run if any chronic pain or discomfort has diminished. In fact, you'd be surprised at how much better you feel in 30 minutes to an hour.
Nobody should have to live with debilitating pain or limited range of motion because your body or your lifestyle is putting up obstacles to healing. Take control of your health and happiness; something as simple as a massage could be just what you need.
Written by Kacy Suther. In Touch Bodywork offers massage therapy. New York City residents can get sports massage, therapeutic massage and lymphatic drainage massage therapy. NYC massage info at http://www.intouchbodyworknyc.com .