Promoting a healthy pregnancy is the primary goal of the peri-natal massage performed by the Registered Massage Therapists at the Rosedale Natural Health Clinic. The treatments vary according to the patient’s individual needs, and may be performed for relaxation or for a specific therapeutic purpose. Furthermore, the treatments aim to enhance musculoskeletal health in order to assist with the added physical stress placed on the body by a growing fetus.

Patient safety and comfort is of utmost importance. The therapists use proper table height and supports to ensure that the patient and the fetus are both safe and comfortable. Most treatments performed on pregnant patients are performed in a side lying position as this position decreases the risk of compressing the aorta and inferior vena cava against the patient’s spine which could disrupt blood flow. The patient may also be positioned semi-reclined to decrease the compression of abdominal contents on the diaphragm and help the patient to breathe better.

The massage therapy treatment approach to pregnancy differs from individual to individual taking into consideration the patient’s health history and symptoms. The therapist takes extra care with patients with conditions such as Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (also known as pre-eclampsia) and Gestational Diabetes

Here are some of the common complaints associated with pregnancy and how massage therapy helps:

Lowback Pain, Pelvic Pain: Due to increased joint laxity, the muscles in the surrounding area are over stressed to keep the joints stable. Massage therapy helps by releasing unnecessary muscle tension and improving muscle strength in areas that need to be well supported.

Edema/Swelling: Often experienced in the legs and arms, edema can compress into surrounding tissues, nerves and blood vessels that may lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, piriformis syndrome and general discomfort. Massage therapy helps by promoting lymph drainage and improving circulation to get rid of excess fluid.

Breast tenderness: In preparing a woman for breast feeding, the breast tissue might feel swollen, tender and over sensitive. Massage therapy can help by reducing congestion, promoting drainage and relieving the pressure in the area with the use of hydrotherapy and manual lymph drainage techniques.

Insomnia/Restlessness: With the emotional and physical stress of pregnancy and the stress of anticipating a child, most mothers-to-be have sleep problems. Massage Therapy helps by inducing relaxation and sleep.

Constipation: Progresterone causes smooth muscle relaxation and therefore lessens bowel movement. Massage therapy helps by promoting the movement of the bowels by manual stimulation, and relieving stress in the surrounding muscles.

The above symptoms may linger even after the birthing process. Massage therapy will also assist in post-surgical recovery and overall stress reduction.

Pregnancy can be the most dramatic and transformative event in a woman’s life. Massage treatments performed by the registered massage therapists at the clinic will help women enjoy this experience and provide them with a supportive environment as they anticipate the coming of their child.

For more information on pregnancy massage, please call the clinic at 416-926-0084 and ask for Linda Jung, our Registered Massage Therapist.

The clinic is located conveniently in the Rosedale neighborhood of Toronto, steps from the St Clair subway station and Green P parking.