Melanie Austin L.C.M.T.
Melanie’s primary focus is to facilitate change and healing in the body using a variety of specialized techniques to address her patients’ unique needs. Her skillset includes but is not limited to the following:
Sports Massage
A form of massage involving the manipulation of soft tissue to benefit a person engaged in regular physical activity. Soft tissue is the connective tissue that has not hardened into bone and cartilage; it includes skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia (a form of connective tissue that lines and ensheaths the other soft tissues). Sports massage is designed to assist in correcting problems and imbalances in soft tissue that are caused by repetitive and strenuous physical activity and trauma. The application of sports massage, prior to and after exercise, may enhance performance, aid recovery, and prevent injury.
Active Release Technique
The active release technique treats your body’s soft tissue by combining manipulation and movement. ART entails identifying, isolating, and targeting the affected area to break up scar tissue. This promotes blood flow and faster healing of injuries. It can be used to treat problems with your muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves.
Trigger Point Technique
Trigger point pressure release involves applying pressure with a finger or other instrument to the trigger point and increasing the pressure as the trigger point "releases" and softens.
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
IASTM is a process in which the clinician uses a set of handheld instruments to break down the scar tissue and fascial restrictions in soft tissues (muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia, and nerves). Once the damaged areas are detected, the instruments are used to deliver a controlled microtrauma to the affected area. The purpose of the microtrauma is to stimulate a local inflammatory response, which initiates reabsorption of excessive scar tissue and facilitates a cascade of healing activities. Adhesions within the soft tissue that may have developed as a result of surgery, immobilization, or repetitive strain, are broken down, allowing the patient to regain function.
In addition, Melanie is able to provide or incorporate the following services:
- taping
- cupping
- blading
- Swedish massage
- fascial release
- deep tissue
- scar tissue work
- stress relief
- joint or muscle rehab
