R. Scott Shaw

Reconnecting Body, Mind, and Spirit with the Healing Power of Touch

What is Therapeutic Massage?

Thousands of years ago, the great physician-philosopher Hippocrates recommended massage to all his patients.  Throughout history, military, political, religious and business leaders have followed this sensible advice.  Today, every university and professional football, baseball and hockey team employs at least one massage therapist.  But you say, "The most physical thing I do is lift my TV remote.  So, why should I receive a therapeutic massage?" Well, which machine would you trust for a drive to the corner store, the car you drive every day, or the rusting heap that hasn't been cranked in months?  The human body is an incredibly complicated machine: when it is least active, it is most in need of a good tune-up.  Healthcare professionals are body mechanics.  As Hippocrates knew, as today's medical practitioners know, therapeutic massage helps the body to help itself. 

Please rest assured that Scott Shaw's office is a no-judgment zone.  Bald or extremely hairy; thick or thin; very young or very old; athletic or sedentary--no matter what shape you and your body are in, you may be confident that Scott will not stand in judgment of you.  Scott is a professional, bound by ABMP's strict code of ethics to protect your privacy, dignity and safety, and to provide you with a professional therapeutic massage. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Like all your favorite foods, therapeutic massage is available in many "flavors." 

* Swedish Massage--is the base upon which all other therapeutic massage modalities have been built.  The long, flowing strokes and light kneading of tense muscles relaxes the mind and restores circulation throughout the body.  Swedish is very gentle and relaxing. If you've never had bodywork before, this is a good one to try first. 

* Deep Tissue Massage--as the name implies, penetrates deep into the tissue to release the connective tissue of the skin from the muscles and to break up adhesions within the muscles themselves.  Deep tissue is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury.  Deep tissue targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Scott uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle.  Please note: People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.

* Lomi Lomi Massage--has been practiced in Hawaii and other Pacific Island communities for thousands of years. This modality relaxes and rejuvenates  as words alone cannot describe.

* Thai Yoga Massage--stretches tight joints, restoring range of motion most adults haven't enjoyed since they were children doing backflips in the yard.

* Reflexology--is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet.  Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than simply that.  Reflexology involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body.

* Hot Stone Therapy--for those who have muscle tension but prefer lighter bodywork.  Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. The therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth is comforting and very relaxing.  When requested, Scott uses heated stone therapy in addition to standard Swedish Massage.

* Sports Massage--for the athlete in all of us.  Sports massage employs several modalities including Thai (joint movements) and Deep Tissue to relieve sore, tight muscles and restore range of motion.  

Note: If you suffer a sprain or deep soreness after a run or gym workout, apply ice (wrapped in a towel to protect the skin) for 5-15 minute periods every 2 hours for the first 48 hours to lessen the swelling that usually accompanies muscle tears and strains.  Rest an additional 24 hours, then begin applying heat using the same intervals.  Then set an appointment to see Scott or a qualified, certified massage therapist in your area--your body will be glad you did.