Structural Medicine

A typical session lasts 2 hours to allow sufficient time to gather a

complete history, perform a thorough evaluation and to carry out the treatment followed by a re-evaluation to gauge progress. Rather than passively receiving treatment, clients are invited to participate in their session by engaging in various movements that will enhance the work.  For example, you may be asked to point and flex your foot while your lower leg is being treated. You are welcome to ask questions and engage in discussion.  I enjoy client education and use a variety of resources to share information with you about what I uncover in my evaluation and treatment.

Structural Medicine is not massage. While sometimes the treatment may be relaxing, you can expect to be working hard in order to get the most out of your session.  It may not always be comfortable. Some clients experience pain during treatment however I aim to help you distinguish between a productive or therapeutic pain and pain that is neither. Communication during sessions is vital and I will always work with you to make sure we stay within your level of comfort and tolerance. True healing comes from within you.

Sessions are typically performed with the client in their underwear or the like. Standard massage style draping techniques (where the client may choose to disrobe completely and be covered throughout the session) are not practical since clients are often executing range of motion exercises during the session as well as repeated positional changes and muscle testing/re-testing. It is best to wear something that you feel comfortable in that also allows full range of motion of your arms and legs and maximum visual assessment for the practioner.

For women, bras and underwear work well. Sports bras with thick straps are not ideal. Wearing a top with a back clasp that can be unhooked easily while you are face down on the table facilitates access to all the large muscles of the upper back.  Snug fitting running shorts that extend to mid thigh make access to the glutes and upper hamstrings difficult. For men, loose running shorts with a mesh underlining or stretchy briefs work well. Loose boxer shorts tend to be a bit too revealing.

It is my pleasure to work with children as part of my practice. They are generally curious, open minded little creatures which I find delightful! And because they do not have years of compensation patterns woven into their structures, they often change easily and quickly. It is my hope that by working with young people as their physical bodies develop, I can play a role in helping them avert some of the common problems adults acquire over time. Early intervention and education leads to health and longevity. 

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Pediatric appointments are generally shorter than adult sessions but since every child is different, during your first 1 hour appointment we will determine the best approach for moving forward. I have seen children for 30 min sessions and there are some for whom a 2 hour appointment is best.  For the majority of children a 1 or 1.5 hour appointment is ideal.

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Children should wear loose clothing for a treatment - shorts only for boys and shorts and a tank top for girls is ideal but I will always work within their comfort zone in all areas of the appointment.  

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I look forward to working with you and your child!