Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the oldest healing practices in the world. Functioning  under the principle that the body contains Yin and Yan energies, acupuncture looks to treat the imbalances that constitute states of disease. The body contains many channels for these energies (QI), when the channels are blocked energy cannot flow freely through the channels, needles inserted into the intersecting points of the meridians releasing the flow and restoring balance.

Even though acupuncture is well known as an alternative medicine, numerous studies and recent research suggest that it does have a positive physical effect on the human body.  Many GP’s, doctors and physiotherapists use acupuncture for treatment of several injuries and conditions.

Massage

Massage is the manipulation of superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue to enhance the function of the skeletal system and promote relaxation and well-being. 1st Step Therapy provides a range of massage techniques. 

Myofascial Release

Myofascial release refers to the manual massage technique for stretching the fascia and releasing bonds between fascia, integument, and muscles with the goal of eliminating pain, increasing range of motion and equilibrioception. Myofascial release usually involves applying shear compression or tension in various directions, or by skin rolling.

Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger point therapy involves deactivating trigger points that may cause local pain or refer pain and other sensations, such as headaches, in other parts of the body. Manual pressure, vibration, injection, or other treatment is applied to these points to relieve myofascial pain. These points relate to dysfunction in the myoneural junction, also called neuromuscular junction (NMJ), in muscle, and therefore this modality is different from reflexology, acupressure and pressure point massage.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue massage is designed to relieve severe tension in the muscle and the connective tissue or fascia. This type of massage focuses on the muscles located below the surface of the top muscles. Deep tissue massage is often recommended for individuals who experience consistent pain, are involved in heavy physical activity, such as athletes, and patients who have sustained physical injury. It is also not uncommon for receivers of Deep Tissue Massage to have their pain replaced with a new muscle ache for a day or two. Deep tissue work varies greatly. What one calls deep tissue another will call light. When receiving deep tissue work it is important to communicate what you are feeling.

Exercise Therapy

Exercise Therapy is used in conjunction with most treatments provided by 1st Step Therapy.  These exercises can range from a simple core stability program to more difficult dynamic stretches and strengthening exercises.  Your exercise program will be altered and developed as your condition changes, making sure you are always on top of your maximum capability. 

 

Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy

1st Step Therapy offers Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy.Manual Physiotherapy is a systematic, solution-oriented approach towards patients’ needs and problems.  It blends hands on techniques such as stretching and mobilization of tissue with exercise and education to create a complete treatment approach Manipulative Physiotherapy is an advanced group of hands on techniques that are applied at a high rate of speed and are often associated with the “pop” or adjustment of joints.