Overview
To maximize the therapeutic benefits, a stretching routine can be incorporated as a part of a massage therapy session. This is often done in the course of sports massage, rehabilitative massage and other types that focus primarily on restoring optimal tissue health instead of merely relaxation. Stretching during a massage therapy session helps to create an upward spiral of muscle relaxation and improved circulation that results in better flexibility and a more rapid recovery from the stresses of intensive workouts or injuries.
Step 1
Interview prospective massage therapists to find one who is familiar with the type of massage you are seeking and the activities in which you participate. Let the therapist know that you would like to have a stretching routine incorporated into your therapeutic massage. Leon Chaitow, an osteopath, naturopath and author of many books on combining massage and stretching, says that stretching of this type should only be done by a qualified bodywork therapist who is familiar with which muscles control which ligaments, to obtain the maximum results. Take care to find the right therapist to perform this stretching and massage for you.
Step 2
Discuss the portions of the body you wish to include in your stretching routing and let the therapist know what your goals and expectations are for this work. Be aware that the therapist will only be able to work to the extent appropriate for your muscle health at the time of your session, and that it often requires several sessions to be able to loosen muscles up enough to be able to achieve maximum stretching benefits during the massage. Notify your therapist if you have any previous or recent injuries that may interfere with your normal range of motion during the therapy session.
Step 3
Wear comfortable clothing that allows as much access as possible for the massage portion of your session and also enables maximum movement during stretching. Select clothing that will stay in place and not require frequent readjustment by you or the therapist. Focus on breathing and relaxation during the massage portions of your session. Expect to change positions more frequently when stretching is incorporated, to allow for unrestricted movement and to enable the therapist to position her body correctly to facilitate the proper movement during your stretch. Listen carefully for instructions from your therapist and follow them as completely as possible.
Step 4
Tell the therapist if you are having difficulty following a particular request or if you experience significant pain anywhere in your body during the stretch. Due to the various nerve pathways, pain is often created in one area, but its sensation is felt in a different location of the body, according to Judith Walker DeLany, a neuromuscular therapist at the NeuroMuscular Therapy Training Center. Alert your therapist if you feel pain, tingling, numbness, burning, itching or other strong sensations in your muscles during the massage or stretching. These referred sensations can provide valuable information to help your therapist determine which muscles are actually sending the nerve impulses.
Step 5
Follow your therapist’s directions for hydration and the use of cold or heat therapy after your massage and stretching sessions. Ask whether you should incorporate any particular stretches into your routine at home between therapy sessions. Be patient if your therapist suggests taking time to measure your range of motion, which will give you concrete evidence of the results the therapy is having on your body and muscles. Be sure to discuss any unusual pain or discomfort you experience during the sessions and to give the therapist as much feedback as possible, which will enable him to tailor a therapy plan specifically to your needs.
