Massage

THAI MASSAGE: Thai massage uses point pressure, muscle stretching and compression, done in a rhythmic movement of gentle rocking. In Thai massage it is not just the hands that are used to free tension from the recipient's body, but the therapist's feet, forearms, knees, and elbows as well (be assured this is not painful). Thai massage is applied on a mat on the floor, the work is done fully clothed and no oils are required. Thai massage can move deep into the mechanical functions of the body, working with deep muscle tension and joint mobility as well as nerve, muscle and ligament balancing.

Thai Massage can be particularly helpful in relieving: Headaches, migraines, arthritis, whiplash pain, paralysis, numbness, sciatica, back pain and other conditions.

SWEDISH: Swedish massage is now known as "traditional" massage. In the 1820s a Swedish doctor, Dr. Per Henrik Ling, developed the first modern method of massage through his study of physiology, gymnastics, and the massage techniques borrowed from China, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Swedish massage includes long gliding strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, and shaking motions. It is effective for most ailments because massaging the skin, the body's largest organ, sets up a chain reaction that produces a positive effect on all layers and systems of the body. It affects the nerves, muscles, glands, and circulation, and promotes health and well-being. Rated Medium Pressure.

DEEP TISSUE: Deep Tissue Massage is designed to reach the deep portions of thick muscles, specifically the individual muscle fibers. Using deep muscle compression and friction along the grain of the muscle, its purpose is to loosen the fibers of the muscles and release both toxins and deeply held patterns of tension. Rated Deep Pressure.

MATERNITY MASSAGE: Pregnancy places strong demands on a woman's body and is a time for the body to be nurtured and pampered. This massage not only relieves the tensions and aches caused by the extra weight and shift in the center of gravity to the body, but it reduces swelling, soothes the nervous system, acts as a tonic, reduces fatigue, and enhances energy. Rated Light Pressure.

SPORTS MASSAGE: This special form of massage is typically used before, during, and after athletic events to prepare the athlete for peak performance, to drain away fatigue, relieve swelling, reduce muscle tension, promote flexibility and prevent injuries. Depending on the needs of the athlete, a variety of techniques are used including classic Swedish strokes, cross-fiber friction, pressure-point work, and joint mobilization. Rated Deep Pressure.

PFRIMMER DEEP MUSCLE THERAPY: Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy (PDMT) is a highly refined system of corrective treatment using a specific series of soft tissue movements designed to aid in the restoration of damaged muscles and soft tissue in the entire body. PDMT is designed to cause corrective changes to damaged or adherent muscles and the adjacent soft tissues.

MANUAL LYMPH DRAINAGE (MLD): Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) aims to gently and rhythmically move the lymph through the body, especially swollen areas of the body, relieving pressure and enhancing the functioning of the immune system. As both a preventative and remedial technique, MLD can be used for a wide range of purposes including faster recovery from cosmetic procedures, injury, reduction of swelling and discomfort from pregnancy, and strengthened resistance to illness.

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE: Myofascial Release (MFR) is a form of soft tissue therapy intended to eliminate pain, increase range of motion, and rebalance the entire body. It does this by using massage techniques to stretch the fascia and release the bonds that exist between the fascia, muscles and bones. Fascia is the connective tissue that connects and covers all muscles, organs, and skeletal structures of the body. Direct myofascial release is sometimes known as deep tissue work. Indirect release applies light pressure and gently stretches the fascia; this allows for increased blood circulation and relief from pain.

Michele Weitzenkorn

• Certified in Massage Therapy after graduating from the Pennsylvania School of Muscle Therapy in 1996
• Specializing in Swedish, Therapeutic and Deep Tissue Massage
• Continuing education credits include myofascial release, sports massage technique, acupressure point therapy, and maternity massages

"My goal is to provide my clients with a combination of massage techniques tailored to address each person's individual needs. My passion is working with clients who choose to integrate massage therapy into their health and wellness program."

Melanie Silberman

• Graduated from Potomac Massage Training Institute as a certified massage therapist in 1999.
• Certified in Swedish deep tissue massage, sports/therapeutic massage, trigger point massage, orthopedic massage, connective tissue massage, lymphatic drainage, and Thai yoga massage.
• Has been with Main Line Health and Fitness since 2004.

"I customize each massage session to meet the individual needs and goals of my clients; leaving each client feeling balanced, renewed and relaxed. I enjoy incorporating massage therapy into my client’s overall healthy lifestyle."

Anita Kraus

• Board Member of the Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy Association’s PA Chapter & professional member of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA).
• Graduated from The Pennsylvania School Of Muscle Therapy in 2003.
• Received advanced training in Gross Anatomy, Myofascial Release & Corrective Bodywork.
• Nationally Certified Massage Therapist & Bodyworker.
• Certified Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapist.
• Certified Personal Trainer.