Treat Your Pain… Transform Your Life!

About Our Services

ADVANCED INTEGRATIVE MYOFASCIAL (AIM) THERAPY

Advanced Integrative Myofascial Therapy is a unique massage and bodywork treatment approach developed by for the treatment of pain and injuries.

Despite the excellent training in massage and bodywork that Jamie received over the years, she wasn't satisfied with the limited approach of the therapies she studied. As a result she decided to synthesize the best components of myofascial release, orthopedic massage and craniosacral therapy, along with aspects of other massage and bodywork approaches. The individual components of the treatment are provided in a particular sequence that maximizes the effectiveness of each technique as well as the effectiveness of the overall treatment .

The AIM treatment approach is practical for both acute and chronic musculoskeletal disorders. It is particularly effective in treating pain and musculoskeletal disorders which have not responded well to other types of treatment.  The hallmark of the AIM treatment approach is more effective pain relief and improved physical function, eg. flexibility etc. that lasts longer than other treatment methods.

For additional information on AIM, contact Jamie.

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE

Myofascial Release is a safe and effective bodywork technique focused on the connective tissue (fascial) component of the body. The approach involves applying gentle sustained pressure or traction into the connective tissue restrictions. Gentle pressure applied over a period of several minutes causes the tight connective tissue to lengthen, or release. This serves to relieve pain and restore joint movement and flexibility.

Fascial restrictions can be created by trauma (physical or emotional), surgery, inflammatory or infectious processes, or structural imbalances. This causes connective tissue to slowly tighten down and solidify like cement. Over time, the tightness can spread like a pulled yarn in a sweater. This tightness has the potential to alter our body alignment causing pain and impairment of movement. In addition to pain, myofascial restrictions can also cause fatigue and other odd symptoms that are seemingly unrelated to their cause.

Research evidence suggests that connective tissue can potentially have the approximate pulling strength of 2000 lbs. per square inch! That’s a ton! When connective tissue tightens down it pulls on sensitive tissue structures such as nerves. That’s why a person with connective tissue restrictions is bound to hurt. Releasing those restrictions can relieve pain and restore motion.

For additional information on Myofascial Release please see the FAQ section.

ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE

Orthopedic Massage is a multidisciplinary approach designed to restore structural balance of the musculoskeletal system. It focuses on the therapeutic assessment, manipulation and movement of soft tissues of the body to relieve pain and dysfunction. It’s an approach that addresses soft tissue injuries as well as the prevention of injuries and enhancement of sports performance. A special emphasis is placed on matching the treatment technique with the cause of the problem. Simple stretching and strengthening exercises are provided to support long term results.

DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

Deep Tissue Massage is a massage approach targeting specific muscles and connective tissue areas of the body. It’s designed to address chronically tight areas causing pain and muscle spasms. Slow, deliberate strokes are used to either lengthen or shorten the affected tissue creating structural balance in the musculoskeletal system. Deep tissue massage should not be confused with a massage simply applied with deep pressure.

NEUROMUSCULAR MASSAGE

Neuromuscular massage is a form of treatment focusing on the relationship between the muscles and nervous system. It’s particularly effective at treating trigger points which often refer pain to an area away from the affected muscle. A number of different techniques can be used to effectively alleviate pain caused by trigger points.

MUSCLE ENERGY TECHNIQUES

Muscle energy techniques (MET) are specifically designed to neurologically lengthen muscle tissue. This is achieved by re-setting muscle fibers back to their optimal, functional length. These techniques provide a longer lasting effect on shortened muscle tissue and are much more effective than simply stretching muscles.

SOFT TISSUE MOBILIZATION

Soft tissue mobilization is a combination of manual techniques designed to stretch tight connective tissue areas of the body. Movement of the tissue is applied in a specific direction to encourage lengthening of shortened tissue.

GERIATRIC MASSAGE

Geriatric Massage is a massage approach adapted to the address the unique needs of elders. It’s designed to improve the quality of life for those who wish to maintain active life styles, as well as those who are frail. Its benefits include pain relief, improved circulation, flexibility and balance which promote health and independence.

SWEDISH MASSAGE

Swedish Massage is the most common type of general massage. It involves the application

of classic massage strokes as well as active and passive joint movement. It improves the circulation of blood and lymphatic fluid thereby providing comfort, alleviating stiffness and promoting tissue repair. It influences the neurological and endocrine (hormone) systems

which can improve immune function, improve sleep, and improve symptoms of depression

and anxiety, among other things. Swedish Massage can be either very relaxing or energizing.

Light Mountain Healthworks       4593 Countryside Road SW, Bemidji, MN 56601

            © Light Mountain Healthworks, Inc.  2014