Pregnancy / Prenatal Massage

Pre-Natal Services

Many of the common conditions expectant mothers experience, can be reduced or alleviated with prenatal massage including lower back pain, muscle spasms, swelling, fatigue and the general stress associated with pregnancy. Women can begin massage therapy at any point in their pregnancy during the first, second, or third trimester.

Pregnancy Massage is different from the typical massage practiced by many massage therapists. Although prenatal / pregnancy massage is safe for most healthy expecting mothers, the typical mainstream massage is potentially unsafe and usually contraindicated during pregnancy. The recommendations for receiving prenatal massage during pregnancy may greatly vary from one expecting mother to another; and, may change for an individual woman if new conditions develop as a result of the pregnancy.

Pregnancy Massage Treatment

Pregnancy Massage Treatment are a dynamic interaction between client and therapist. Each woman innately knows her limitations, tolerances and comforts during pregnancy. The trained professional is familiar with recommended positioning for massage, appropriate draping and skilled in the massage techniques that can be safely applied throughout the pregnancy. Specially designed bolsters (pillows) are utilized to a comfortable position and support the body. Communication is an important part of the dynamic client/therapist relationship.

Precautions and prenatal massage?

Consulting a physician and continued communication between healthcare professionals is necessary to review specific health conditions and any techniques that are to be utilized. Be sure to understand that conditions are rapidly changing during pregnancy and frequent adjustments in the treatment plan are to be expected for the expecting mother to safely receive massage.

Women with the following conditions should speak with a health care provider prior to receiving a massage:

High risk pregnancy
Pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH)
Preeclampsia
Previous pre-term labor
Experiencing severe swelling, high blood pressure, or sudden, severe headaches
Recent birth

Testimonials

After numerious visits to orthopedic doctors and physical therapists, my chronic hamstring pain was SO bad that I couldn't even cook dinner without having to sit down. Being 25 years old, I didn't understand why my leg was not healing even though I was following the doctors’ orders and exercises religiously..

I was referred to Julie by a friend and have had amazing results! It turns out that I probably had scar tissue build up from an old injury and have only been perpetuating the problem over the past few years. After six sessions, Julie was able to relieve my chronic pain and I'm hoping to return to my regular exercise program soon! ..

Jen B.