Clinic Update

You may think that due to your busy schedule, seeking massage therapy services is too time consuming. Nonetheless, in spite of the rainy weather we encourage you to book an appointment with your massage therapist. You’ll be glad you did—massage therapy can alleviate your aches and pains while allowing for relaxation and stress relief. 5 reasons why you should book a massage 1. Relieves Muscle Soreness Massage therapy can reduce muscle stiffness and/or soreness resulting from long hours of work, intense physical activity or sleeping in a non-optimal position, etc. When muscles build up stress and tension it can reduce the blood flow to the soft tissues and restrict movement. Pain relief may result from improved circulation helping the muscles heal and restore movement brought about by a massage session. 2. Improves Sleeping Habits Lack of sleep can leave you feeling tired, drained, and unfocused. It can also cause poor cognitive function and a weakened immune system. Massage has been demonstrated to increase the production of serotonin and melatonin, both important in facilitating deep sleep. ! 3. Reduces Injury Risk Massage can improve the flow of blood in the body, increasing oxygen levels and keeping muscles energized, strong and healthy. This helps to prevent injury due to improved tissue elasticity. The additional oxygen also enhances performance during physical activities. 4. Decreases Anxiety and Improves Well-being It has been shown that regular massages can have a positive effect on overall well-being, by helping to decrease anxiety. Massages work by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system, which in turn can help to slow the heart rate and decrease blood pressure. These effects can be beneficial for those who are looking to improve their overall health and wellbeing. 5. Rehabilitate your injury Massage Therapy is an excellent tool for treating orthopedic issues. Massage can help improve range of motion and decrease pain in the affected area, whether it be a knee injury, lower back pain, wrist discomfort or jaw tightness. Registered Massage Therapists are trained to address these conditions and their symptoms giving you the relief you need and restoring your quality of life. We welcome you to experience our services! Let us help you take care of you NOW!

Hi Therapy Now Community, If you are pregnant, we just want to say “Congratulations!” If you are pregnant, you might be wondering if pregnancy massage (also known as prenatal massage) is safe. As pregnancies progress, mothers will experience significant changes to their bodies. As a result of the baby’s growth, expectant mothers will not only gain weight but also notice many other adjustments. Given the current circumstances, pregnant mothers might be looking for ways to combat discomfort without resorting to medicines. To address this need, it’s important to identify alternative treatments that are safe and effective. Yes, pregnancy massage is safe, given that you see a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT). Registered Massage Therapy in British Columbia is part of the regulated health profession and accredited by the College of Massage Therapy of British Columbia. To reach this status, therapists must take pregnancy massage as part of their curriculum and successfully pass a licensing exam in the province. Massage during pregnancy can help relieve discomfort that occurs during trimesters of pregnancy. Pregnant women often experience back pain, neck pain, sciatica, and headaches, and massage can help to relieve these discomforts. Massage can also help to improve circulation and reduce stress. Which Massage Pregnancy Positions are safe? This all depends on which trimester you are in. There are 3 positions a pregnant woman could be in on the massage table. Face up Face down Side-line Is it safe for me to have a massage while lying facing down while I am pregnant? If you are in your 1st trimester, you can lie face down. During this stage, the uterus protects the fetus well, and there is no reason to avoid sleeping on the stomach during the first trimester. In the 2nd trimester, as long as you are working with a Registered Massage Therapist and have a specialized massage pillow which completely elevates/supports your belly in most cases you will be safe. At Therapy Now Wellness clinic we have a two-part massage pillowing system called the BodyCushion that is specifically contoured to fit around your entire belly. The bottom pillow contours around your hips/pelvis and lower belly, this completely supports delicate ligaments and sensitive areas. The top pillow is carved out to support tender breasts and contoured around the top of the belly completely elevating it from the table. Both of these pillows work together to support the mama to be on the Massage table. The beauty of having two separate pillows is that they can be moved closer together/apart to accommodate the size of the belly. The main thing to note is that the belly never touches the table, it is cradled in between the pillows creating a safe nest to support your baby. As you enter your 3rd trimester of pregnancy, you may find that your belly grows quickly and can make it difficult to lie on your back. As soon as your belly touches the massage table while in the pregnancy pillow, it is recommended that you do not lie face down. Is it safe for me to have a massage while lying on my back while I am pregnant? While in the first trimester, you can lie on your back. In the second trimester, as long as you are comfortable you can lie on your back. During your third trimester, Experts suggest not lying flat on your back. This position compresses the vena cava and reduces blood flow and oxygen delivery to the fetus. Back sleeping may also contribute to sleep-related breathing difficulties for the mother. Another alternative though could be a semi-fowlers position which props the head and torso to between 15 and 45 degrees. Is it safe for me to lie on my side while I am pregnant? During all trimesters it is considered safe to have massage while lying on your side on your side. As a woman reaches the second and third trimesters, sleeping on the left side is generally considered to be the safest and most comfortable option. However, you it is okay to be on the right side for short periods of time while being massaged. At Therapy Now Wellness Clinic, we have had the delight of treating many women until their pregnancy delivery date. We have helped relieve and reduce sciatica symptoms, headaches, hip pain, swelling, etc. If you’re looking for a massage specifically tailored to pregnant women, please feel free to reach out to us and book an appointment.

Lower back pain is a common ailment that affects individuals of all ages and backgrounds. It can significantly impact daily activities and overall well-being. Fortunately, there are effective ways to reduce and manage lower back pain. In this article, we will explore the common causes of lower back pain and provide expert advice from massage therapy and kinesiology specialists on how to alleviate discomfort and promote long-term relief. Muscle Strain Muscle strain is a leading cause of lower back pain. Poor posture, repetitive movements, improper lifting techniques, or sudden excessive stress on the lower back can strain the muscles and ligaments. To reduce pain, the specialists recommend: Applying ice or heat packs to the affected area. Engaging in gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. Maintaining proper posture during daily activities. Incorporating regular movement and avoiding prolonged periods of inactivity. Poor Posture Maintaining poor posture during prolonged sitting or standing can contribute to lower back pain. Slouching or hunching forward disrupts the natural alignment of the spine and strains the lower back muscles. The massage therapy and kinesiology specialists suggest: Practicing good posture by sitting and standing with a straight spine. Using ergonomic supports, such as lumbar rolls or adjustable chairs. Taking frequent breaks to stretch and correct posture throughout the day. Engaging in exercises that strengthen core muscles and promote postural stability. Herniated Disc A herniated disc occurs when the soft cushioning discs between the vertebrae in the spine rupture or become displaced. This condition can cause lower back pain and radiating leg pain (sciatica). The specialists recommend: Seeking massage therapy sessions that target the affected areas and promote relaxation. Engaging in exercises recommended by a kinesiology specialist to strengthen the supporting muscles. Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain or put excessive pressure on the spine. Consulting with a massage therapist and kinesiologist for personalized treatment plans. Spinal Arthritis and Spinal Stenosis Degenerative conditions such as spinal arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis, spondylosis) and spinal stenosis can contribute to lower back pain. The massage therapy and kinesiology specialists suggest: Receiving massage therapy sessions that focus on relieving muscle tension and improving circulation. Engaging in exercises prescribed by a kinesiology specialist to promote joint mobility and flexibility. Implementing posture correction techniques to alleviate pressure on the affected areas. Seeking guidance from both massage therapists and kinesiologists for a holistic approach to pain management. Scoliosis and Traumatic Injuries Scoliosis, an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, and traumatic injuries (e.g., falls, accidents) can also contribute to lower back pain. The specialists advise: Receiving massage therapy sessions that address muscle imbalances and promote relaxation. Engaging in exercises prescribed by a kinesiology specialist to improve spinal alignment and stability. Incorporating strengthening exercises to support the spine and promote overall strength. Practicing relaxation techniques and stress management strategies to reduce tension and aid in healing. Lower back pain can stem from various causes, and effective management requires a comprehensive approach tailored to each individual’s needs. By understanding the underlying causes and implementing the advice of massage therapy and kinesiology specialists, it is possible to reduce lower back pain and improve overall well-being. Remember to consult with qualified healthcare professionals for personalized assessments and treatment plans to address your specific condition. To book an appointment for your back with our kinesiologist, acupuncturist, or massage therapist, please contact our Therapy Now Wellness Clinic in Surrey BC at 604-401-0459. Our friendly staff will assist you in scheduling your desired session with the appropriate specialist. We look forward to helping you alleviate your pain and improve your overall well-being.

Exciting News: Petra Jurcak, Our Registered Massage Therapist, Returns! We’re thrilled to announce that our beloved Registered Massage Therapist, Petra Jurcak, is making her comeback! Starting from Tuesday, September 19, Petra will be back to provide her exceptional massage therapy services. We’re grateful for your patience and understanding during her healing process, as she continues to regain her strength. It’s possible that her pressure may not be as robust as before, but rest assured that she’s committed to her rehabilitation while treating all her valued clients. We can hardly contain our excitement, and we know many of you share our enthusiasm for Petra’s return. Moving forward, please note that Petra will be available exclusively on Tuesdays. This is a wonderful opportunity to book your massage therapy session with Petra and experience the rejuvenating benefits she has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you back to our clinic and having Petra back in action!