MASSAGE TECHNIQUES
This is a list of the multi-modality manual therapy approaches that Ben uses in any session. These techniques have been taught by the leaders in the massage therapy, physical therapy and chiropractic industries. Professional training and certifications of completion have been achieved in each modality. This is an ever growing list and does not include all books, courses, and anatomy education.
Ben Keyes, LMT
- C.O.R.E. Myofascial Therapist
- Structural Integration Therapist
- Advanced Sports Massage Therapist
- Certified Kinesio Tape Practitioner (CKTP)
- Medical Massage Practitioner - Master Level
- Certified Integrated Orthopedic Manual Therapist
- Certified Active Isolated Stretching (AIS - Mattes Method)
- Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD - Master Level)
- Myoskeletal Alignment Techniques (MAT)
- Certified Personal Trainer (National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM))
- Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)
- Certified Medi-Cupping
- Certified Massage Cupping
- Certified Cranial Unwinding
- Craniosacral Therapy
- Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT)
- Certified Cranial/Structural Core Distortion Release
- Certified Frontal/Occipital Decompression
- Structural Energetic Therapist (SET Practitioner)
- Certified Oncology Massage Practitioner
- Certified Functional Movement Therapist (FMT)
- Certified Rocktape 1, 2, & Advanced
- Lymphatic Drainage Plus
- Craniosacral Therapy
- Dolphin Neurostim - Pain Relief
- Dolphin Neurostim - Scar Therapy
- Certified Gua Sha
- Certified IASTM (instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization)
- Bindegewebsmassage/Connective Tissue Massage (CTM)
- Positional Release
- Muscle Energy Technique (MET)
Myofascial Therapy
This type of therapeutic, manual massage therapy releases restrictions around joints and muscles in a tissue called fascia. These fascial restrictions act much like wearing clothing that is too tight and can restrict your movement. Releasing restricted fascia improves your range of motion, increases strength and decreases pain. There are several myofascial techniques that we employ to be effective. This is considered a type of deep tissue massage, but is non-invasive in most cases. In our office we use Myofascial Release (MFR) and Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy.
This type of therapeutic, manual massage therapy releases restrictions around joints and muscles in a tissue called fascia. These fascial restrictions act much like wearing clothing that is too tight and can restrict your movement. Releasing restricted fascia improves your range of motion, increases strength and decreases pain. There are several myofascial techniques that we employ to be effective. This is considered a type of deep tissue massage, but is non-invasive in most cases. In our office we use Myofascial Release (MFR) and Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy.
Medical Massage
Medical massage employs a multi-modality approach utilizing knowledge in pathology and utilizes specific treatments appropriate to working with pain, and recovery from injury. The massage therapist may work from a prescription from the chiropractor or as your sole healthcare provider to assess and treat muscle imbalances that are at the source of pain. Various manual massage techniques are used including stretching, electric trigger point stimulation, massage cupping and Kinesio Tape.
Medical massage employs a multi-modality approach utilizing knowledge in pathology and utilizes specific treatments appropriate to working with pain, and recovery from injury. The massage therapist may work from a prescription from the chiropractor or as your sole healthcare provider to assess and treat muscle imbalances that are at the source of pain. Various manual massage techniques are used including stretching, electric trigger point stimulation, massage cupping and Kinesio Tape.
Sports Massage
Sports massage is designed to enhance athletic performance and recovery. There are two contexts in which sports massage can be useful to an athlete: pre-event for muscle activation and post-event for recovery. Pre-event massage is delivered at the performance site, usually with the athlete fully clothed. Fast-paced and stimulating, it helps to establish blood flow and to warm up muscles. During the massage, the athlete generally focuses on visualizing the upcoming event. Post-event massage is also delivered on site, through the clothes. The intent here is to calm the nervous system and begin the process of "flushing" the muscles of used/deficient blood and encourage fresh blood into fatigued muscles. Post-event massage can reduce recovery time, enabling an athlete to resume training much sooner than rest alone would allow.
Sports massage is designed to enhance athletic performance and recovery. There are two contexts in which sports massage can be useful to an athlete: pre-event for muscle activation and post-event for recovery. Pre-event massage is delivered at the performance site, usually with the athlete fully clothed. Fast-paced and stimulating, it helps to establish blood flow and to warm up muscles. During the massage, the athlete generally focuses on visualizing the upcoming event. Post-event massage is also delivered on site, through the clothes. The intent here is to calm the nervous system and begin the process of "flushing" the muscles of used/deficient blood and encourage fresh blood into fatigued muscles. Post-event massage can reduce recovery time, enabling an athlete to resume training much sooner than rest alone would allow.
Orthopedic Massage
Orthopedic Massage integrates several different modalities to treat soft-tissue pain and injury. Treatment approaches are determined based on results of orthopedic testing and manual resistance tests. Emphasis is placed on understanding both the injury and its rehabilitation criteria. Three basic elements adhered to are assessment, matching the treatment to the injury, and adaptability of treatment to reach maximum recovery. Self-care done at home, in a gym, or supervised by a physical therapist may be recommended. Self-care may include corrective exercises and/or stretches, and will only be recommended based on assessment.
Orthopedic Massage integrates several different modalities to treat soft-tissue pain and injury. Treatment approaches are determined based on results of orthopedic testing and manual resistance tests. Emphasis is placed on understanding both the injury and its rehabilitation criteria. Three basic elements adhered to are assessment, matching the treatment to the injury, and adaptability of treatment to reach maximum recovery. Self-care done at home, in a gym, or supervised by a physical therapist may be recommended. Self-care may include corrective exercises and/or stretches, and will only be recommended based on assessment.
Kinesio® Taping Method (Kinesiology Taping)
As seen in the 2008 Beijing Summer Games, kinesiology tape is an elastic therapeutic tape that will prolong the effects of your massage therapy session for as long as you wear it. It is meant to be worn for up to 7 days. And yes, it is waterproof so you can wear it when you bathe. It is used to relax over-stressed muscles or to stimulate muscle contraction of weak or underused muscles. The right application will eliminate muscle imbalances and pain while taking excessive pressure off joints, or simply assist the Lymphatic System in moving lymph or superficial bruising.
Ben says, "There are several brands of kinesiology tape on the market. StrengthTape is the brand that I use because of its ability to stick better than any other brand I've tried." It is made from woven cotton fibers with 100% medical grade acrylic adhesive. With no latex, the tape can be worn for extended periods (3-7 days) with no skin irritation. It does not limit range of motion like traditional athletic tape. The lifting effect of kinesiology tape improves circulation and reduces swelling.
As seen in the 2008 Beijing Summer Games, kinesiology tape is an elastic therapeutic tape that will prolong the effects of your massage therapy session for as long as you wear it. It is meant to be worn for up to 7 days. And yes, it is waterproof so you can wear it when you bathe. It is used to relax over-stressed muscles or to stimulate muscle contraction of weak or underused muscles. The right application will eliminate muscle imbalances and pain while taking excessive pressure off joints, or simply assist the Lymphatic System in moving lymph or superficial bruising.
Ben says, "There are several brands of kinesiology tape on the market. StrengthTape is the brand that I use because of its ability to stick better than any other brand I've tried." It is made from woven cotton fibers with 100% medical grade acrylic adhesive. With no latex, the tape can be worn for extended periods (3-7 days) with no skin irritation. It does not limit range of motion like traditional athletic tape. The lifting effect of kinesiology tape improves circulation and reduces swelling.
Myofascial Therapy, Myofascial Release (MFR)
Myofascial Therapy is a combination of manual approaches that will address fascial restrictions that are commonly the cause of pain and dysfunction in the body. Shearing forces applied in a slow, specific direction will affect the deepest layers of soft tissue. When applied correctly, it is not painful. Ben's training in Structural Integration was what helped him develop into the myofascial expert he is now. As more research is peer reviewed and published, Ben changes his approach in his commitment to get results with every session.
"MFR" is the three-dimensional application of sustained pressure and movement into the fascial system in order to eliminate fascial restrictions. Upon locating an area of fascial tension, gentle pressure is applied in the direction of the restriction. Myofascial release is an effective therapeutic approach in the relief of cervical pain, back pain, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, neurological dysfunction, restriction of motion, chronic pain, and headaches.
Myofascial Therapy is a combination of manual approaches that will address fascial restrictions that are commonly the cause of pain and dysfunction in the body. Shearing forces applied in a slow, specific direction will affect the deepest layers of soft tissue. When applied correctly, it is not painful. Ben's training in Structural Integration was what helped him develop into the myofascial expert he is now. As more research is peer reviewed and published, Ben changes his approach in his commitment to get results with every session.
"MFR" is the three-dimensional application of sustained pressure and movement into the fascial system in order to eliminate fascial restrictions. Upon locating an area of fascial tension, gentle pressure is applied in the direction of the restriction. Myofascial release is an effective therapeutic approach in the relief of cervical pain, back pain, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, neurological dysfunction, restriction of motion, chronic pain, and headaches.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) - Master Level
Lymphatic Drainage is a type of gentle massage which is intended to encourage the natural drainage of the lymph. Since the lymph is derived from the interstitial fluid, its composition continually changes as the blood and the surrounding cells continually exchange substances with the interstitial fluid. Lymph returns protein and excess interstitial fluid to the circulation. Lymph may pick up bacteria and bring them to lymph nodes where they are destroyed. Lymph also transports fats from the digestive system. The lymphatic system depends on intrinsic contractions of the smooth muscle cells in the walls of lymph vessels (peristalsis) and the movement of skeletal muscles to propel lymph through the vessels to lymph nodes and then beyond the lymph nodes to the lymph ducts which return lymph to the cardiovascular system. Lymphatic drainage uses a specific amount of pressure (less than 9 ounces per square inch) and rhythmic circular movements to stimulate lymph flow which aids in reducing swelling and improving the immune system.
Lymphatic Drainage is a type of gentle massage which is intended to encourage the natural drainage of the lymph. Since the lymph is derived from the interstitial fluid, its composition continually changes as the blood and the surrounding cells continually exchange substances with the interstitial fluid. Lymph returns protein and excess interstitial fluid to the circulation. Lymph may pick up bacteria and bring them to lymph nodes where they are destroyed. Lymph also transports fats from the digestive system. The lymphatic system depends on intrinsic contractions of the smooth muscle cells in the walls of lymph vessels (peristalsis) and the movement of skeletal muscles to propel lymph through the vessels to lymph nodes and then beyond the lymph nodes to the lymph ducts which return lymph to the cardiovascular system. Lymphatic drainage uses a specific amount of pressure (less than 9 ounces per square inch) and rhythmic circular movements to stimulate lymph flow which aids in reducing swelling and improving the immune system.
Massage Cupping and MediCupping
Silicone cups, manual hand pumped cups, and machine assisted cupping create suction and vacuum pressure is used to lift connective tissue, loosen adhesions, bring hydration and blood flow to body tissues, move deep inflammation to the skin surface for release, and drain excess fluids by opening lymphatic pathways. Massage Cupping therapy is incredibly versatile and the basic movements can easily be customized to apply a wide variety of techniques, from lymphatic drainage to deep tissue release. This technique complements many health modalities ranging from spa treatments and medical massage to chiropractic, physical and occupational therapies. MediCupping is cupping done with a machine assisted vacuum to produce a consistent amount of negative pressure therapy.
Silicone cups, manual hand pumped cups, and machine assisted cupping create suction and vacuum pressure is used to lift connective tissue, loosen adhesions, bring hydration and blood flow to body tissues, move deep inflammation to the skin surface for release, and drain excess fluids by opening lymphatic pathways. Massage Cupping therapy is incredibly versatile and the basic movements can easily be customized to apply a wide variety of techniques, from lymphatic drainage to deep tissue release. This technique complements many health modalities ranging from spa treatments and medical massage to chiropractic, physical and occupational therapies. MediCupping is cupping done with a machine assisted vacuum to produce a consistent amount of negative pressure therapy.
Structural Energetic Therapy® (SET)
SET is a full body therapy that produces maximum rehabilitation of physical conditions causing pain and builds physical performance potential to its maximum. SET is the integration of Cranial/Structural techniques (our “golden nugget”) with specialized soft tissue protocols designed to work together to release the primary core (spiral) distortion, and the distortions of sub-patterns, with the ultimate goal of restoring balance, strength and function in the body long term.Structural imbalances are responsible for over 90% of our painful symptoms throughout the body, and can cause varying degrees of limitations and dysfunctions. The core (spiral) distortion that is present from development in the fetus causes a rotation in the pelvis, a structural weight bearing weakness at the base of the spine causing exaggerated curvatures in the spine (scoliosis), and other compensations, weaknesses, and strain patterns in the body. Accidents, illness, stress, emotional challenges, injuries, and other life activities cause the body to collapse further into this distortion resulting in pain and dysfunction.
The combined techniques of Structural Energetic Therapy® address the area of your pain first, and then bring the rest of your body into balance to support those changes. These techniques include kinesiology and muscle testing, postural analysis, Cranial/Structural techniques, directed myofascial unwinding, emotional energy release, acupressure, scar tissue and adhesion release, deep tissue therapy and other therapeutic bodywork techniques.
SET is a full body therapy that produces maximum rehabilitation of physical conditions causing pain and builds physical performance potential to its maximum. SET is the integration of Cranial/Structural techniques (our “golden nugget”) with specialized soft tissue protocols designed to work together to release the primary core (spiral) distortion, and the distortions of sub-patterns, with the ultimate goal of restoring balance, strength and function in the body long term.Structural imbalances are responsible for over 90% of our painful symptoms throughout the body, and can cause varying degrees of limitations and dysfunctions. The core (spiral) distortion that is present from development in the fetus causes a rotation in the pelvis, a structural weight bearing weakness at the base of the spine causing exaggerated curvatures in the spine (scoliosis), and other compensations, weaknesses, and strain patterns in the body. Accidents, illness, stress, emotional challenges, injuries, and other life activities cause the body to collapse further into this distortion resulting in pain and dysfunction.
The combined techniques of Structural Energetic Therapy® address the area of your pain first, and then bring the rest of your body into balance to support those changes. These techniques include kinesiology and muscle testing, postural analysis, Cranial/Structural techniques, directed myofascial unwinding, emotional energy release, acupressure, scar tissue and adhesion release, deep tissue therapy and other therapeutic bodywork techniques.
Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) - The Mattes Method
Active isolated stretching is a method of muscle lengthening and of releasing tension in the myofascial tissue which encapsulates your muscles. It involves dynamic, facilitated stretching of all major muscle groups. In addition, it provides functional and physiological assistance to the restoration of superficial and deep fascial tissue.
Everyone is familiar with stretching. Leaning over to touch your toes stretches your hamstrings, holding your foot to your bottom stretches your quadriceps; right? Perhaps not! For many years, these prolonged, static (no movement) stretches were thought to be the gold standard. Active Isolated Stretching instantly improves range of motion by working with your body's physiology. You'll see and feel the difference instantly!
Active isolated stretching is a method of muscle lengthening and of releasing tension in the myofascial tissue which encapsulates your muscles. It involves dynamic, facilitated stretching of all major muscle groups. In addition, it provides functional and physiological assistance to the restoration of superficial and deep fascial tissue.
Everyone is familiar with stretching. Leaning over to touch your toes stretches your hamstrings, holding your foot to your bottom stretches your quadriceps; right? Perhaps not! For many years, these prolonged, static (no movement) stretches were thought to be the gold standard. Active Isolated Stretching instantly improves range of motion by working with your body's physiology. You'll see and feel the difference instantly!
Cranial Unwinding and Craniosacral Therapy (CST)
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, noninvasive method of evaluating and enhancing the function of a physiological body arrangement called the craniosacral system. Developed by John E. Upledger, DO, OMM, this manual therapy enhances the body's natural healing processes and has proven effective in treating a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction. The roots of this therapy are in cranial osteopathy, developed by Dr. William G. Sutherland. The craniosacral system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid (CFS) that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the skull, face, and mouth--which make up the cranium--down to the sacrum or tailbone. Since this system influences the development and function of the brain and spinal cord, any imbalance or dysfunction in the craniosacral system could cause sensory, motor, or neurological disabilities. These problems may include chronic pain, eye difficulties, scoliosis, motor-coordination impairments, learning disabilities, and other dysfunctions of the central nervous system. Craniosacral therapy encourages the body's natural healing mechanisms to improve the functioning of the central nervous system, dissipate the negative effects of stress, and enhance health and resistance to disease. The craniosacral therapy practitioner uses a light touch to assist the natural movement of fluid within the craniosacral system. Therapists generally use only five grams of pressure, roughly the weight of a nickel, to test for restrictions in various parts of the craniosacral system. It's often possible for the evaluation alone to remove the restriction and allow the system to correct itself. Cranial Unwinding is a version of this work.
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, noninvasive method of evaluating and enhancing the function of a physiological body arrangement called the craniosacral system. Developed by John E. Upledger, DO, OMM, this manual therapy enhances the body's natural healing processes and has proven effective in treating a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction. The roots of this therapy are in cranial osteopathy, developed by Dr. William G. Sutherland. The craniosacral system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid (CFS) that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the skull, face, and mouth--which make up the cranium--down to the sacrum or tailbone. Since this system influences the development and function of the brain and spinal cord, any imbalance or dysfunction in the craniosacral system could cause sensory, motor, or neurological disabilities. These problems may include chronic pain, eye difficulties, scoliosis, motor-coordination impairments, learning disabilities, and other dysfunctions of the central nervous system. Craniosacral therapy encourages the body's natural healing mechanisms to improve the functioning of the central nervous system, dissipate the negative effects of stress, and enhance health and resistance to disease. The craniosacral therapy practitioner uses a light touch to assist the natural movement of fluid within the craniosacral system. Therapists generally use only five grams of pressure, roughly the weight of a nickel, to test for restrictions in various parts of the craniosacral system. It's often possible for the evaluation alone to remove the restriction and allow the system to correct itself. Cranial Unwinding is a version of this work.
Trigger Point Therapy
Based on the discoveries of Drs. Janet Travell and David Simons in which they found the causal relationship between chronic pain and its source. Myofascial trigger point therapy is used to relieve muscular pain and dysfunction through applied pressure to trigger points of referred pain and through stretching exercises. These points are defined as localized areas in which the muscle and connective tissue are highly sensitive to pain when compressed and travel down a predictable nerve pathway. This approach can be uncomfortable to the patient, but through additional training and understanding of physiology, this can be a nearly painless therapy at Rx Massage Therapy.
Based on the discoveries of Drs. Janet Travell and David Simons in which they found the causal relationship between chronic pain and its source. Myofascial trigger point therapy is used to relieve muscular pain and dysfunction through applied pressure to trigger points of referred pain and through stretching exercises. These points are defined as localized areas in which the muscle and connective tissue are highly sensitive to pain when compressed and travel down a predictable nerve pathway. This approach can be uncomfortable to the patient, but through additional training and understanding of physiology, this can be a nearly painless therapy at Rx Massage Therapy.