Lanigan Massage & Bodywork
Healing through massage near Sewickley since 2001
ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE / PAIN MANAGEMENT
NEURAL RESET THERAPY
MYOSKELETAL ALIGNMENT TECHNIQUES
MYOFASCIAL RELEASE THERAPY
NEUROMUSCULAR MASSAGE THERAPY (TRIGGER POINT THERAPY)
SPORTS MASSAGE
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE THERAPY
THERAPEUTIC CUPPING
DEEP TISSUE HOT STONE SWEDISH MASSAGE
CHAIR MASSAGE
OTHER MASSAGE MODALITIES
ADD-ON TREATMENTS
AROMATHERY - CUSTOMIZED MASSAGE OILS
RAINDROP THERAPY
CASTOR OIL PACK (IMMUNE BOOST)
IONIC FOOT DETOX
RED LIGHT THERAPY
RADIAL EXTRACORPOREAL SHOCK WAVE THERAPY
All massages (except chair massage) are an integration of any / all modalities based on your needs that day.
MASSAGE SERVICES
ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE / PAIN MANAGEMENT
Orthopedic massage is a specialized form of massage therapy focused on addressing musculoskeletal pain, injuries, and dysfunctions. It combines a variety of massage techniques, including deep tissue work, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and stretching, with a clinical approach to assess and treat soft tissue problems. The objective is not only to relieve pain but also to restore function and improve the health of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints.
Unlike general relaxation massage, orthopedic massage is tailored to the client's specific condition and needs. We often work in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists or chiropractors, to create a holistic treatment plan. Assessment and treatment protocols are based on orthopedic and anatomical knowledge, allowing us to target the root causes of discomfort or limitation.
Benefits of Adding Orthopedic Massage to a Massage Session
- Targeted Pain Relief - Orthopedic massage focuses on identifying and addressing specific areas of pain or dysfunction, which can be especially beneficial for clients recovering from injuries or dealing with chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
- Improved Mobility and Flexibility - Through techniques such as stretching and myofascial release, orthopedic massage can help improve joint range of motion and muscle flexibility, making daily movements easier and reducing the risk of future injuries.
- Enhanced Recovery - It supports faster healing by increasing blood circulation to affected areas, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue repair—ideal for athletes or individuals recovering from surgery or trauma.
- Personalized Treatment - The therapist’s assessment ensures that the massage session is tailored to the client’s unique needs, leading to more effective and lasting results compared to a standard massage approach.
- Prevention of Further Injury - By addressing underlying imbalances or weaknesses, orthopedic massage can help prevent the recurrence of injuries and support overall musculoskeletal health.
- Complementary to Other Treatments - Orthopedic massage can be integrated with physical therapy, chiropractic care, or other rehabilitation strategies, enhancing the overall effectiveness of a client’s treatment plan.
Adding orthopedic massage techniques to a regular massage session transforms the experience from simple relaxation to a therapeutic intervention that targets dysfunction, promotes healing, and supports long-term wellness.
What Will Orthopedic Massage Help? Any soft tissue dysfunction:
- Neck – Whiplash, Stiff neck, Head posture, Cervical disk pathology
- Shoulder – Thoracic outlet syndrome, Frozen shoulder, Rotator cuff tears, Shoulder impingement, Misaligned shoulders
- Elbow / Wrist / Hand – Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Degenerative arthritis
- Back – Lordosis, Kyphosis, Scoliosis, Lumbar disk pathology, Spondylolysis, Facet joint irritation
- Hip and Pelvis – Pelvic tilt, Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction, Piriformis syndrome, Low back pain, Sciatica
- Knee – Patella problems, Iliotibial Band (ITB) Friction Syndrome, Knee alignment problems, Locked knees, Ligament problems
- Lower Leg –Shin splints, Anterior compartment syndrome (ACS), Stress fractures, Muscle cramping, Lace bite
- Ankle - Achilles tendonitis, Ankle sprains and strains, Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Foot – Plantar fasciitis, Calcaneal misalignments, Fallen and high arches
For more information: Orthopedic Massage Isn’t the Same as Medical Massage — Is It?
NEURAL RESET THERAPY (NRT)
Neural Reset Therapy (NRT) is a manual therapy technique designed to rapidly reduce muscle tension and pain by directly influencing the nervous system. Unlike traditional massage or deep tissue techniques that focus on manipulating muscle fibers, NRT targets the neural pathways that control muscle contraction. The therapy is based on the principle that muscles are controlled by the nervous system, and that resetting these neural signals can provide immediate relief from pain and tightness.
During an NRT session, we use gentle movements and specific stimuli—such as light pressure or vibration—to activate nerve receptors in the muscles. This stimulation sends signals to the brain, prompting it to "reset" the muscle's tension level. The result is often a rapid and noticeable relaxation of the targeted muscles, without the discomfort or soreness that can sometimes follow deep tissue massage.
Advantages of Adding Neural Reset Therapy to Massage
- Faster Relief from Pain and Tension: Because NRT works by resetting the neural control of muscles, clients often experience immediate reductions in pain and tightness. This can enhance the overall effectiveness of a massage session and provide quicker results.
- Non-Invasive and Gentle: NRT techniques are typically gentle and do not require deep pressure or forceful manipulation. This makes it suitable for clients who may be sensitive to traditional massage methods or who are recovering from injury.
- Long-Lasting Effects: By addressing the root cause of muscle tension—the neural signals—NRT may lead to longer-lasting relaxation and improved muscle function compared to massage alone.
- Reduced Post-Massage Soreness: Since NRT does not rely on heavy pressure, clients are less likely to experience the soreness that can sometimes follow deep tissue work.
- Complementary to Other Modalities: NRT can be easily integrated into massage sessions and combined with other bodywork techniques to provide a more comprehensive approach to pain relief and relaxation.
- Enhanced Range of Motion and Function: Clients often report improved flexibility and range of motion following NRT, as muscle tension is reduced more efficiently.
Neural Reset Therapy offers a unique and effective approach to addressing muscle tension and pain by working directly with the nervous system. Integrating NRT into massage sessions can provide faster relief, greater comfort, and longer-lasting benefits.
MYOSKELETAL ALIGNMENT TECHNIQUES
Myo - (prefix): A prefix denoting a relationship to muscle.
Skeletal (adjective): Of, relating to, or functioning as a skeleton.
Myoskeletal Alignment is a term developed and coined by Erik Dalton, PhD, in the early 80s after seeing a need for a more integrative perspective on pain management in the human body. Myoskeletal alignment technique (MAT) is a type of bodywork which blends the principles of osteopathy and structural integration to relieve chronic pain, and to reduce the potential for the emergence of pain which could become chronic over time.
Myoskeletal Alignment focuses on treating stubborn pain conditions by mobilizing joints through muscle manipulation. Tight, stressed muscles contribute to pain by limiting freedom of movement, while weak muscles provide inadequate support for the body. This in turn leads to posture problems, stiffness, and other symptoms which create an endless cycle of pain. By addressing the fundamental issues in the muscles and fascia, practitioners hope to eliminate the associated symptoms.
For more information:
What Is Myoskeletal Alignment Technique®? - Erik Dalton
Myoskeletal Alignment Techniques Help Muscles, Joints
​MYOFASCIAL RELEASE THERAPY
The first treatment step in Orthopedic Massage is Myofascial Release. Myo (muscle) fascial (connective tissue) Release is a technique designed to release tension in the fascia – the tough, connective tissue that connects and surrounds muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, arteries, veins and organs. The fascia can become tight or distorted as a result of injury, illness, poor posture and inflammation. This can cause abnormal pressure on the surrounding tissues (such as the muscles) covered by the fascia, which can lead to pain or lack of mobility. Many individuals suffer from pain caused by nothing more than untreated fascial problems.
This is a highly interactive stretching technique that requires feedback from the patient to determine the direction, force and duration of the stretch to facilitate maximum relaxation of the restricted tissues. The combination of heat, pressure, and gentle stretch will melt and mobilize the fascia, thereby freeing the underlying tissue to move unrestricted.
For more information:
The Massage Therapist’s Guide to Myofascial Release
Myofascial Release Therapy
NEUROMUSCULAR (TRIGGER POINT) MASSAGE THERAPY
The second treatment step in Orthopedic Massage is Neuromuscular Massage. Neuromuscular massage is an advanced system of soft tissue manipulation that specializes in relieving pain and dysfunction by balancing the nervous system with the muscular and skeletal systems through the treatment of the areas of muscle spasm (trigger points). It is specific to a particular problem or injury.
- Over 90% of pain complaints are associated with trigger points
- Over 70% of pain complaints are the direct result of trigger points
Neuromuscular massage consists of applying concentrated pressure to the trigger points. Muscles that are in spasm are painful to the touch because they are lacking proper blood flow and therefore not receiving enough oxygen. It is this lack of oxygen that causes the muscle to produce lactic acid and create adhesions. By applying pressure to the trigger points, adhesions are broken down and the muscle can relax. The lactic acid will be released and the muscle can then start receiving enough blood and oxygen to regain normal functionality, thereby restoring the neuro (nervous) muscular functionality.
For more information:
What is Neuromuscular Massage Therapy?
The Massage Therapist’s Guide to Neuromuscular Therapy
SPORTS MASSAGE
Sports massage is designed to reduce injuries, alleviate inflammation, and speed up recovery after an athletic event.
Basic Maintenance and Rehabilitation
- PNF stretching - Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation
- Combines muscle contraction and relaxation with passive and partner-assisted stretching
- Originally developed as a form of rehabilitation, and to that effect it is very effective
- Widely regarded as the best method to increase overall flexibility (range of motion), as well as muscular strength
Pre-Event
- Quick treatments used as part of your warm-up to increase your circulation and flexibility
Post-Event
- Help to quiet the nervous system and relax you from the effects of competition
- Keeps pain and soreness to a minimum
- Increases circulation which increases the removal of acids, toxins, and muscle spasms
- Prevents delayed onset of muscle soreness
For more information:
The Ultimate Guide to Sports Massage: Benefits, Techniques, and Career Insights
Is Sports Massage Therapy Right For You? | Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE THERAPY
Lymphatic drainage therapy can also be thought of as immune system support and full body detoxification. It is a form of massage that enhances the efficiency of the body’s lymphatic system – a critical system for supporting the immune system and removing excess fluids and toxins from the body. It normally functions at about 10% of its capacity, leaving 90% as a functional reserve. Lymphatic drainage therapy activates this 90% so it is functioning closer to 100% of its capacity.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy stimulates muscle contractions in lymph and blood vessels, which increases lymphatic and blood flow. This increased lymphatic fluid circulation:
- Drains toxins, macromolecules (proteins), and fat from the body
- Stimulates the immune system – More antigens are carried to the lymph nodes, increasing antigen/antibody
- Increases the parasympathetic response – This diminishes the sympathetic response (“fight or flight”) – very relaxing
- Reduced pain – Alleviates tissue fluid stagnation and may inhibit pain receptors
- Reduces muscle spasms of both voluntary (muscle cramps) and involuntary (constipation, menstrual cramps) muscles
- What Will Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy Help?
- Skin/Hair – Complexion, Wrinkles, Scars, Cellulite, Hair loss, Acne, Rosacea, Eczema, Seborrhea
- Metabolic System – Stress, Fatigue, Chronic pain, Sleeping disorders, Snoring, Detoxification, Jet lag, Alcohol hangover
- Nervous System – Headaches, Stroke, Concussion, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Vertigo, Epilepsy
- Reproductive System – PMS, Breast pain from swollen breasts, Menstrual cramps, Pregnancy, Menopause, Infertility
- Liver / Intestines – Chronic constipation, gastritis, stress ulcers, or appendicitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Ear-Nose-Throat – Tinnitus (Ringing in ears), Vertigo, Hearing loss, Chronic sinusitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis
- Lungs – Chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, Emphysema, Cystic fibrosis, Hay fever
- Physical – Trauma, Sprains, Dislocations, Fractures, Neck Pain, Whiplash, Lower back pain, Sciatica
- Sports – Muscle spasms, Swelling, Metabolic wastes and lactic acid removal, Torn muscles, Joint dislocations, Fractures
- Surgery – Pre- and post-surgery (Drains passages and prepares tissue), Reduces scars, Cosmetic surgery, Burns
- Rheumatology – Rheumatoid arthritis, Fibromyalgia syndrome, Osteoporosis, Bursitis, Tendonitis, Carpal Tunnel, Tennis Elbow, Stiff neck
- Geriatrics – Tissue regeneration and oxygenation, Deep cleansing, Stimulates immune system
I am sorry, but I am not yet qualified to work with "true" lymphedema. If you need this treatment, please refer to one of the following:
- the Upledger Institute's "Find a Practitioner" page - look for lymph drainage therapy with 3+ classes http://www.iahp.com/pages/search/index.php
- Call the Pittsburgh School of Massage Therapy at 412-241-5155
For more information:
Lymphatic Massage Can Be a Valuable Addition to Your Practice
Research Updates in Lymphatic Drainage | Massage Therapy Journal
THERAPEUTIC CUPPING
Cupping is an alternative medicine in which cups are placed on the skin to create suction (negative pressure) in order to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation and activate lymphatic drainage.
Indications:
- Stimulate Lymphatic System to Facilitate in Detox
- Reduce Inflammation
- Reduce Pain
- Relieve Muscle & Joint Pain
- Treat Headaches
- Relieve Neck and Shoulder Tension
- Relieve Back Pain
- Reduce Fibromyalgia Symptoms
- Reduce Abdominal Cramps
- Improve General Wellness
- Improve Blood Circulation
- Increase Metabolism
- Improve Digestive Function
- Improves Common Cold
- Body Sculpting
- Improve or Eliminate Cellulite
- Firm & Tone Skin
- Reduce Stretch Marks and Soften Scars
- Reduce Spider Veins
For more information:
The Emerging Science on the Benefits of Cupping
DEEP TISSUE HOT STONE SWEDISH MASSAGE
This is what most people think of when we say, “massage”, only with hot stones. This is a general relaxing yet therapeutic massage, but not specific to any injury or specific problem. Usually a full-body massage unless otherwise requested. My 1-hour massage is basically a sweep of the body with the hot stones. The 1½-hour version includes foot reflexology and more specific bodywork or orthopedic work.
The hot stones are used to sedate and dilate the blood vessels. They help to take the body into a deeper state of relaxation as well as melt away the tension in the fascia (connective tissue) and muscles faster and easier. This is the epitome of relaxing.
Psychological Effects:
- Reduce stress
- Reduce anxiety
- Increase mental clarity and focus
Physiological Effects:
- Increases the circulation of the blood, thereby increasing the oxygen and nutrients to the cells
- Increases the circulation of the lymph and aids in the removal of metabolic wastes
- Restores metabolic balance
- Increases joint mobility and fascial (connective tissue) mobility
- Relaxes fascia and muscles, thereby decreasing pain
SYNERGY STONES HEAT~WAVE MASSAGE
Contoured to fit smoothly against the curves of the body, these stones blend soothing warmth, custom pressure and advanced massage techniques into an Ultra-Relaxing and Therapeutic experience called the HEAT~WAVE Massage! Hand made of solid natural Stoneware near Seattle, WA., and developed by Scott Wynn, a massage professional with nearly 20 years experience, these revolutionary HEAT~WAVE Massage tools blend the deeply relaxing warmth of traditional hot stones with the health benefits of deeper therapeutic massage.
CHAIR MASSAGE
Chair massage is a great way to make massages available to people outside of the massage office. The ergonomically designed chair is portable and can be taken just about anywhere. It offers many of the same benefits as a table massage without having to remove clothing.
Workplace Chair Massage - We have a program in which we will come into the workplace and provide chair massage for the employees. Many companies are realizing the benefits of offering stress reduction or wellness programs to their employees.
- There is a $4 to $7 return for every $1 of investment on Employee Wellness Programs – through accident reduction and lower use of medical plans – Employee Assistance Professional Association
- Stress accounts for $26 billion in medical and disability payments and $95 billion in productivity losses annually – Occupational Health and Safety News and the National Council on Compensation Insurance
- Workplace massage is one of the most effective “stress-busters” available
- Lower healthcare costs
- Increases the morale, satisfaction, and loyalty of the workers
- Enhances concentration, efficiency and creativity
- Programs can be set up to accept either direct payments from employees, company payments, or co-payments where both the company and worker contribute a portion of the payment.
- Any monies contributed by the company are a 100% tax-deductible employee health benefit.
OTHER MASSAGE MODALITIES
I also am trained in many other techniques which may be incorporated into the massage as necessary. These include: Hydrotherapy, Reflexology, Reiki II, CranioSacral Therapy, Polarity Therapy, and Touch for Health.