Therapeutic Massage: A highly specialized system of connective tissue rehabilitation based on theories and research regarding connective tissue healing and remodeling. This system of massage therapy recognizes that the joint complex and its soft tissue structures, especially ligaments, are the primary sites of chronic pain and dysfunction. Treatment of these soft tissue structures is directed by the soft tissue findings after specific evaluation and diagnostic palpation. Treatment must be provided for the purpose of soft tissue and joint rehabilitation. In addition, therapeutic exercise, physiotherapeutic modalities, and patient education are combined in a treatment plan that identifies the appropriate frequency and duration of treatments. Medical massage therapy recognizes that clinical treatment to accomplish the goal of connective tissue rehabilitation must identify the cause of a problem and utilize direct manual technique to correct the cause of the problem.

Sports Massage: A special form of massage typically used before, during, and after athletic events. The purpose of the massage is to prepare the athlete for peak performance, to drain away fatigue, to relieve swelling, to reduce muscle tension, to promote flexibility and to prevent injuries. The main purpose of sports massage therapy is to help alleviate the stress and tension which builds up in the body’s soft tissues during physical activity. When minor injuries and lesions occur, due to overexertion and/or overuse, massage can break them down quickly and effectively. Sports massage can help prevent those reoccurring injuries that so often get in the way of performance and achievement whether a person is an athlete or a once a week jogger.