Massage is a system of manipulation of the soft tissues of the body with the hands. For thousands of years it was the principal method of treating musculoskeletal problems. Touch is the most effective form of healing. The energy that flows through the hands can refresh, regenerate and revitalise. It produces both physical and physiological benefits. It can be used as an injury prevention technique as well as a treatment for injury. Working on many different levels makes massage such a versatile and effective treatment method. Remedial massage is one of the most readily available ways to prevent and treat muscle injuries, pain and soreness.

Massage is based on the fact that soft tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia respond to touch. Most pain is myofascial (soft tissue) in origin. Trigger points (sensitive points in the muscles, which radiate or refer pain to various parts of the body) can mimic many conditions. Muscles not only move our joints, they stabilize them, and provide armour for the internal organs. Minor problems with these functions cause more pain than people realise.

Most headaches originate in the muscles of the neck and head. Much of the pain of such conditions as angina comes from the hyper contraction of the chest muscles. Much abdominal and pelvic pain can be caused by trigger points in these muscles. Lower back and sciatic pain are far more likely to originate in muscles than in vertebral disc problems.

Although many clients who consult a remedial massage therapist have pain as a result of specific injuries (whiplash, falls, sports injuries etc) , RSI – repetitive strain injuries, and other work related problems, the vast majority however may originate in postural (structural) alignment problems that sometimes go back to child hood or adolescence.