Category: athletic injuries

What is CRAC, PNF, RI, MET, & OMT Stretching?

What is CRAC, PNF, RI, MET, & OMT Stretching?

The word “antagonist” is a derivative of the Greek word antagonistēs, which translates into some form of opponent or competitor, and which stems from a combination of the words anti- (“against”) and agonizesthai (“to contend for a prize”). So when you take origins into account, you’d be correct to suspect that an antagonist’s muscle is something to fight against.

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Insertional Achilles Tendinitis

Insertional Achilles Tendinitis

Insertional Achilles tendinitis involves the lower portion of the heel, where the tendon attaches (inserts) to the heel bone. In both non insertional and insertional Achilles tendinitis, damaged tendon fibers may also calcify (harden). Bone spurs (extra bone growth) often form with insertional Achilles tendinitis. Insertional Achilles Tendinitis is pain and inflammation at the insertion of the Achilles Tendon on the heel bone. It is often associated with swelling, redness, and calcium buildup (small bump) located at the back of the heel (see picture). Pressure at the back of the heel tends to be sensitive and painful. In the clinic, some of my clients often report that certain tight shoes might cause more pain in this area from the pressure and have to sometimes resort to open back shoes.  

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Santa Barbara Marathon – Massage for Pro and Amateur Runners

Santa Barbara Marathon – Massage for Pro and Amateur Runners

  Riktr PRO Massage offers Pre-event and Post Event Massages for all ages at the Santa Barbara Marathon  – Mention this post and get a $ discount! Conveniently located at 827 State St.  Suite 13 in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. https://goo.gl/maps/zhn9iy6ojDhipk1b9 CONTACT DIRECTIONS for APPOINTMENTS – TEXT ME: THIS IS THE ONLY WAY …

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SB Athletes and Athletics

SB Athletes and Athletics

My style of Deep Tissue Massage releases the body’s natural painkillers whereby it stimulates the release of endorphins, the morphine-like substances that the body manufactures, into the brain and nervous system….kind of like a “Runners High” or a parasympathetic state “rest and digest” of mind. Once that happens (your now in a parasympathetic state “rest and digest”) I then go to work on your injured area to break up the damaged fibrous adhesion’s which are spread randomly throughout a muscle thus increasing blood flow, oxygen, strength, flexibility, and tissue re-building. (This diagram link explains this process)

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Deep Compression Massage

Deep Compression Massage

General benefits of deep compression massage
Physical relaxation
Improved circulation, which nourishes cells and improves waste elimination
Relief for tight muscles (knots) and other aches and pains
Release of nerve compression (carpal tunnel, sciatica)
Greater flexibility and range of motion
Enhanced energy and vitality
Some clinical styles may help heal scar tissue as well as tendon, ligament, and muscle tears
What specific conditions can massage therapy help?
Massage therapy may help the body in many ways. Massage can relax muscle tissue, which may lead to decreased nerve compression, increased joint space, and range of motion. This may lead to reduced pain and improved function.

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Deep Tissue Massage and Pain

Deep Tissue Massage and Pain

Deep tissue massage is a massage that is designed to get into the connective tissue of the body, rather than just the surface muscles. As a massage therapist when I perform deep tissue I use a variety of techniques to deeply penetrate the muscles and fascia, loosening them and releasing tension. Most clients have a more intense experience with a deep tissue massage, but also feel that it is more beneficial because it addresses deep-seated muscle pains. Deep tissue is beneficial when undertaken on a regular basis so that I can work together with the client to correct long term problems, relax the body, and prevent injury.

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Cupping for Athletes

Cupping for Athletes

Throughout history, there have been many eastern and western forms of medicine that have come and gone. Some have survived the test of time. Others have been considered to be more “trendy” while other techniques are meant to repeat themselves over time.

Today, myofascial decompression, better known as cupping, has made a return to western society, especially in physical therapy and athletic training room settings. 

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