Lauren Tretten has been a Certified Massage Therapist since 2005. Her specialty is using the relaxing Swedish massage techniques in a variety of applications such as: clinical deep tissue massage, sports massage, pregnancy massage, and relaxation massage.

On staff at Athens Chiropractic since 2007, Lauren enjoys working with a variety of clients – young and old – to assist in ridding the body of aches and pains. Whether you are suffering from chronic pain or daily stress, massage therapy helps to reduce muscle inflammation and improve circulation for better functionality on a daily basis. Massage therapy, in combination with chiropractic, can help to ease pain and increase flexibility.

Lauren attended the Massage Therapy Center of Palo Alto and continues at the McKinnon Institute of Massage in Oakland to expand her knowledge for advanced massage techniques.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: What is pregnancy massage?

A: Pregnancy massage is massage therapy specifically tailored for the expectant mother's needs. It is also called pre-natal massage.

Q: How is pregnancy massage different from regular massage?

A: The mother's body must be properly positioned and supported during the massage, using pillows and padding. Proper positioning ensures comfort and safety for the mother and baby.

Q: What are the benefits of pregnancy massage?

A: Pregnancy massage has been found to reduce stress, decrease swelling in the arms and legs, and relieve aches and pains in muscles and joints.

Q: What is clinical deep tissue massage?

A: Deep tissue massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff necks, low back tightness, and sore shoulders.

Q: Will clinical deep tissue massage hurt?

A: At certain points during the massage, most people find there is usually some discomfort and pain. It is important to tell the massage therapist when things hurt and if any soreness or pain you experience is outside your comfort range. There is usually some stiffness or pain after a deep tissue massage, but it should subside within a day or so. The massage therapist may recommend applying ice to the area after the massage.

Q: What conditions is clinical deep tissue massage used for?

A: Unlike classic massage therapy, which is used for relaxation, deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as:
• Chronic pain
• Limited mobility
• Recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury)
• Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
• Postural problems
• Muscle tension or spasm

Q: What can I expect during my visit?

A: Massage therapists may use fingertips, knuckles, hands, elbows, and forearms during the deep tissue massage. You may be asked to breathe deeply as the massage therapist works on certain tense areas. It is important to drink plenty of water as you can after the massage to flush metabolic waste from the tissues.

Q: What Happens During Sports Massage?

A: Sports massage is a type of Swedish massage that stimulates circulation of blood and lymph fluids. Some sports massage movements use trigger point therapy break down adhesions (knots in the muscles) and increase range of motion. Sports massage was originally developed to help athletes prepare their bodies for optimal performance, recover after a big event, or function well during training. Sports massage emphasizes prevention and healing of injuries to the muscles and tendons.

Q: What is relaxation massage?

A: Relaxation massage is essentially the same as a gentle Swedish massage that uses smooth, gliding strokes. The primary purpose will be to help you relax, and the massage therapist will probably move at a slower pace and use light pressure.

During a relaxation massage there is less emphasis on working out serious adhesions or knots in the muscle tissue and the therapist won't push your pain limits in order to get the muscle to release. Sometimes people even fall asleep during a relaxation massage.