My specialties are rehabilitative massage and pain management. These involve the assessment of the soft tissue dysfunction causing pain and assisting the body in correcting that dysfunction. I incorporate techniques from many massage modalities, including: Orthopedic Massage, Neuromuscular Massage Therapy (Trigger Point Therapy), Myofascial Release, Myoskeletal Alignment Techniques, Anatomy Trains, Lymphatic Drainage Therapy, Sports Massage, Swedish Massage, Workplace Chair Massage.

I also do pregnancy massage, raindrop therapy, and some reflexology.

Hot Stone Massage - I use hot stones in almost all of my massages - it adds heat to the tissue and is extremely relaxing and enjoyable.

Education:

Bachelors of Science (B.S.) in Biology from Westminster College (1997)

Certified in Advanced Massage Therapy from the Pittsburgh School of Massage Therapy (2002)

Certified in Orthopedic Massage and Pain Management by International Lecturer and Author, James Waslaski (2003)

Certified in Orthopedic Assessment by International Lecturer and Author, Whitney Lowe (2008)

Certified in Medical Massage by the National Board Certification Agency (2009)

Professional Affiliations:

Nationally certified by the NCBTMB (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodyworkers)

Professional member of the ABMP (Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals)

Most of the modalities I practice can be combined into 1 session (for sessions longer than 1 hour).

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ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE / PAIN MANAGEMENT

You can think of this as a much less painful way to release the trigger points that are causing you pain. Orthopedic massage is an all-encompassing massage technique that uses a multidisciplinary approach to isolate the missing link in reoccurring chronic pain and musculoskeletal dysfunctions. The 12-step approach focuses on assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation. Training by International Lecturer and Author, James Waslaski.
An in depth assessment isolates the muscle, fascia and/or joint which is causing the problem.

Step 1: Take an accurate and informative client history

Step 2: Assess the active range of motion

Step 3: Assess the passive range of motion

Step 4: Assess the resisted range of motion

Treatment is specific to the results of the assessment, and may include techniques from Myofascial Release (release of connective tissue), Neuromuscular Therapy (trigger point therapy), Sports Massage (PNF stretching), CranioSacral Therapy (muscle energy), or any other modality that is indicated by the assessment.

Step 5: Tissue preparation

Step 6: Release of the myofascial tension surrounding the muscles (Myofascial Release)

Step 7: Address trigger points in the affected muscles (Neuromuscular Massage Therapy)

Step 8: Breaking up scar tissue adhesions (Multi-Directional Friction)

Step 9: Aligning the scar tissue so it becomes functional in the muscle (Scar Tissue Alignment)

Rehabilitation is the neuromuscular reeducation of the tissues and nerves. If your have not been able to raise your arm over your head for the last 2 years, your brain will subconsciously restrict the motion even though the physiological restriction has been removed. By continually repeating the motion, you will convince your brain that the movement is OK while also increasing the amount of synovial fluid (joint lubricant) in the joint. Rehabilitation also includes patient home care.

Step 10: Pain free movement

Step 11: Pain free stretching

Step 12: Pain free strengthening

What Will Orthopedic Massage Help? Any soft tissue dysfunction:

Neck – Whiplash, Stiff neck, Head posture, Cervical disk pathology

Shoulder – Thoracic outlet syndrome, Frozen shoulder, Rotator cuff tears, Shoulder impingement, Misaligned shoulders

Elbow / Wrist / Hand – Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Degenerative arthritis

Back – Lordosis, Kyphosis, Scoliosis, Lumbar disk pathology, Spondylolysis, Facet joint irritation

Hip and Pelvis – Pelvic tilt, Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction, Piriformis syndrome, Low back pain, Sciatica

Knee – Patella problems, Iliotibial Band (ITB) Friction Syndrome, Knee alignment problems, Locked knees, Ligament problems

Lower Leg –Shin splints, Anterior compartment syndrome (ASC), Stress fractures, Muscle cramping, Lace bite

Ankle - Achilles tendonitis, Ankle sprains and strains, Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Foot – Plantar fasciitis, Calcaneal misalignments, Fallen and high arches

For more information: http://www.orthomassage.net/published_articles

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MYOFASCIAL RELEASE THERAPY

The first treatment step in Orthopedic Massage is Myofascial Release. Myo (muscle) fascial (connective tissue) Release is a technique designed to release tension in the fascia – the tough, connective tissue that connects and surrounds muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, arteries, veins and organs. The fascia can become tight or distorted as a result of injury, illness, poor posture and inflammation. This can cause abnormal pressure on the surrounding tissues (such as the muscles) covered by the fascia, which can lead to pain or lack of mobility. Many individuals suffer from pain caused by nothing more than untreated fascial problems.

This is a highly interactive stretching technique that requires feedback from the patient to determine the direction, force and duration of the stretch to facilitate maximum relaxation of the restricted tissues. The combination of heat, pressure, and gentle stretch will melt and mobilize the fascia, thereby freeing the underlying tissue to move unrestricted.

For more information: http://www.myofascial-release.com/

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NEUROMUSCULAR MASSAGE THERAPY (TRIGGER POINT THERAPY)

The second treatment step in Orthopedic Massage is Neuromuscular Massage. Neuromuscular massage is an advanced system of soft tissue manipulation that specializes in relieving pain and dysfunction by balancing the nervous system with the muscular and skeletal systems through the treatment of the areas of muscle spasm (trigger points). It is specific to a particular problem or injury.

Over 90% of pain complaints are associated with trigger points

Over 70% of pain complaints are the direct result of trigger points

Neuromuscular massage consists of applying concentrated pressure to the trigger points. Muscles that are in spasm are painful to the touch because they are lacking proper blood flow and therefore not receiving enough oxygen. It is this lack of oxygen that causes the muscle to produce lactic acid and create adhesions. By applying pressure to the trigger points, adhesions are broken down and the muscle can relax. The lactic acid will be released and the muscle can then start receiving enough blood and oxygen to regain normal functionality, thereby restoring the neuro (nervous) muscular functionality.

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SPORTS MASSAGE

Sports massage is designed to reduce injuries, alleviate inflammation, and speed up recovery after an athletic event.

Basic Maintenance and Rehabilitation

PNF stretching - Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation

Combines muscle contraction and relaxation with passive and partner-assisted stretching

Originally developed as a form of rehabilitation, and to that effect it is very effective

Widely regarded as the best method to increase overall flexibility (range of motion), as well as muscular strength

Pre-Event

Quick treatments used as part of your warm-up to increase your circulation and flexibility

Post-Event

Help to quiet the nervous system and relax you from the effects of competition

Keeps pain and soreness to a minimum

Increases circulation which increases the removal of acids, toxins, and muscle spasms

Prevents delayed onset of muscle soreness

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LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE THERAPY

Lymphatic drainage therapy can also be thought of as immune system support and full body detoxification. It is a form of massage that enhances the efficiency of the body’s lymphatic system – a critical system for supporting the immune system and removing excess fluids and toxins from the body. It normally functions at about 10% of its capacity, leaving 90% as a functional reserve. Lymphatic drainage therapy activates this 90% so it is functioning closer to 100% of its capacity.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy stimulates muscle contractions in lymph and blood vessels, which increases lymphatic and blood flow. This increased lymphatic fluid circulation:

Drains toxins, macromolecules (proteins), and fat from the body

Stimulates the immune system – More antigens are carried to the lymph nodes, increasing antigen/antibody

Increases the parasympathetic response – This diminishes the sympathetic response (“fight or flight”) – very relaxing

Reduced pain – Alleviates tissue fluid stagnation and may inhibit pain receptors

Reduces muscle spasms of both voluntary (muscle cramps) and involuntary (constipation, menstrual cramps) muscles

What Will Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapy Help?

Skin/Hair – Complexion, Wrinkles, Scars, Cellulite, Hair loss, Acne, Rosacea, Eczema, Seborrhea

Metabolic System – Stress, Fatigue, Chronic pain, Sleeping disorders, Snoring, Detoxification, Jet lag, Alcohol hangover

Nervous System – Headaches, Stroke, Concussion, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Vertigo, Epilepsy

Reproductive System – PMS, Breast pain from swollen breasts, Menstrual cramps, Pregnancy, Menopause, Infertility

Liver / Intestines – Chronic constipation, gastritis, stress ulcers, or appendicitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Ear-Nose-Throat – Tinnitus (Ringing in ears), Vertigo, Hearing loss, Chronic sinusitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis

Lungs – Chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, Emphysema, Cystic fibrosis, Hay fever

Physical – Trauma, Sprains, Dislocations, Fractures, Neck Pain, Whiplash, Lower back pain, Sciatica

Sports – Muscle spasms, Swelling, Metabolic wastes and lactic acid removal, Torn muscles, Joint dislocations, Fractures

Surgery – Pre- and post-surgery (Drains passages and prepares tissue), Reduces scars, Cosmetic surgery, Burns

Rheumatology – Rheumatoid arthritis, Fibromyalgia syndrome, Osteoporosis, Bursitis, Tendonitis, Carpal Tunnel, Tennis Elbow, Stiff neck

Geriatrics – Tissue regeneration and oxygenation, Deep cleansing, Stimulates immune system

I am sorry, but I am not yet qualified to work with "true" lymphedema. If you need this treatment, please refer to one of the following:

the Upledger Institue's "Find a Practitioner" page - look for lymph drainage therapy with 3+ classes http://www.iahp.com/pages/search/index.php

Call the Pittsburgh School of Massage Therapy at 412-241-5155

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DEEP TISSUE HOT STONE SWEDISH MASSAGE
This is what most people think of when we say, “massage”, only with hot stones. This is a general relaxing yet therapeutic massage, but not specific to any injury or specific problem. Usually a full-body massage unless otherwise requested. My 1-hour massage is basically a sweep of the body with the hot stones. The 1½-hour version includes foot reflexology and more specific bodywork or orthopedic work.

The hot stones are used to sedate and dilate the blood vessels. They help to take the body into a deeper state of relaxation as well as melt away the tension in the fascia (connective tissue) and muscles faster and easier. This is the epitome of relaxing.

Psychological Effects:

Reduce stress

Reduce anxiety

Increase mental clarity and focus

Physiological Effects:

Increases the circulation of the blood, thereby increasing the oxygen and nutrients to the cells

Increases the circulation of the lymph and aids in the removal of metabolic wastes

Restores metabolic balance

Increases joint mobility and fascial (connective tissue) mobility

Relaxes fascia and muscles, thereby decreasing pain

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CHAIR MASSAGE

Chair massage is a great way to make massages available to people outside of the massage office. The ergonomically designed chair is portable and can be taken just about anywhere. It offers many of the same benefits as a table massage without having to remove clothing.

Workplace Chair Massage - We have a program in which we will come into the workplace and provide chair massage for the employees. Many companies are realizing the benefits of offering stress reduction or wellness programs to their employees.

There is a $4 to $7 return for every $1 of investment on Employee Wellness Programs – through accident reduction and lower use of medical plans – Employee Assistance Professional Association

Stress accounts for $26 billion in medical and disability payments and $95 billion in productivity losses annually – Occupational Health and Safety News and the National Council on Compensation Insurance

Workplace massage is one of the most effective “stress-busters” available

Lower healthcare costs

Increases the morale, satisfaction, and loyalty of the workers

Enhances concentration, efficiency and creativity

Programs can be set up to accept either direct payments from employees, company payments, or co-payments where both the company and worker contribute a portion of the payment.

Any monies contributed by the company are a 100% tax-deductible employee health benefit.

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OTHER MASSAGE MODALITEIS

I also am trained in many other techniques which may be incorporated into the massage as necessary. These include: Aromatherapy, Hydrotherapy, Reflexology, Raindrop Technique, Reiki II, CranioSacral Therapy, Polarity Therapy, and Touch for Health.

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OTHER AVAILABLE TREATMENTS

Eye treatments - Refresh and rejuvenate your eyes while reducing the puffiness, swelling and dark circles. Available eye treatments include:

Earth Therapeutics Cucumber Eye Pads - Recover-E Soothe and Replenish (Cucumber, Vitamin E, Aloe vera, Green tea, Chamomile)

Earth Therapeutics Orange Eye Pads - Rejuvenal-C Refresh and Rejuvenate (Orange, Vitamin C, Ginko Biloba, Green tea, Chamomile)

Earth Therapeutics Hydrogel Under-Eye Recovery Patch - Anti-oxidant skin defense (Green tea, Anti-oxidant vitamin complex, Aloe vera, Cucumber, Chamomile)

Paraffin Spa – A hot wax treatment is very beneficial to the body. It soothes and moisturizes the skin, opens pores, increases circulation, and promotes a sense of calm. It is commonly used to treat arthritis, bursitis, eczema, fibromyalgia, muscle spasms, overworked or fatigued muscles , psoriasis, scar tissue, stiff joints, tendonitis, and tennis elbow (to name a few).

Paraffin wax has a very high “heat capacity,” meaning it is able to absorb and retain a great amount of heat. A paraffin wax spa takes advantage of paraffin's heat-retaining capacity in a simple process called “heat transfer.” As it melts, the paraffin becomes a liquid and is able to retain more heat. Then, when a hand, foot, or other area is dipped into the heated bath, the “phase” of the paraffin that surrounds the dipped area quickly changes into a solid. The heat that is given off is called the heat of “fusion.” More simply, the heat that goes into melting the paraffin comes out of the paraffin when it solidifies into a comforting, warm glove or layer, thus transferring the heat into the affected limb.

In addition to the paraffin, I have heated booties and heated and massaging hand mitts to retain the heat longer and increase the benefits. Allow an additional 10 minutes during your massage for paraffin treatments.

Foot Revitalization Treatment - Revive and refresh your tired feet! Begin with a penetrating deep heat paraffin treatment, followed by Sun Valley Sole to Soul foot care treatment (including a refreshing foot spray, exfoliating foot scrub, and revitalizing foot lotion). These products use the power of Melaleuca Oil to penetrate dry, rough skin; Peppermint oil to reduce muscle tension; all while extracts such as Chamomile, Calendula, and Aloe soothe tired, aching feet. This treatment also includes some foot reflexology.

Hand Revitalization Treatment - Revive and refresh your overworked hands! Begin with a penetrating deep heat paraffin treatment, followed by Nicole Miller’s exfoliating and hydrating treatments. The exfoliating action of Apricot seed and Walnut shell gently removes dead skin cells to reveal the healthy, vibrant skin underneath while the Kaolin (natural purifying clay) absorbs surface impurities and toxins. The hydrating treatment provides the soothing and hydrating benefits of fresh fruit for the ultimate skin-moisturizing treat while the moisturizing gloves protect skin as the hands absorb the nutrient-rich hydrating fruit mask.

I believe your experience should be exactly what you want it to be. I make all the experiences (even therapeutic massages) as relaxing as possible in several ways:

1. The utmost attention is paid to comfort with accessories such as a foam heated mattress pad or lambs wool pad, and conforming gel face rest covers which can be heated or cooled as you prefer.

2. Hydrotherapy and Aromatherapy techniques are incorporated into the massage. I have herbal eye pillows for various benefits (stress relief, cold sinus problems, etc) and area-specific pillows (cervical, abdominal, etc) which can be heated or cooled as you prefer. I also practice aromatherapy and have a wide selection of oils. If you have a particular problem, I will make an oil (on request) specific to that problem which I will use in the massage. Example - Arthritis, Detoxification, etc.

3. I use the music of Steven Halpern which has been scientifically proven to evoke the "relaxation response".

4. In relaxation massages, I use Crystal Chakra Healing techniques. Crystals oscillate to a natural healing frequency which helps you to tap into your own natural self-healing abilities.

5. I also use reflexology techniques in 1 1/2 hour massages or longer. Reflexology improves the circulation and increases relaxation through the manipulation of reflex areas in the feet.

6. I offer several "extras" which can be purchased including paraffin treatments (included heated and massaging mitts), foot spa - water therapy for sore, overworked feet (includes bubbles, massage, and heat), and hands and/or feet revitalization treatments (paraffin, exfoliation, and hydration).

Mondays (9:00am-9:00pm)                                       SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT NOW!
Tuesdays (9:00am-9:00pm)
Wednesdays (9:00am-9:00pm)
Thursdays (9:00am-9:00pm)
Fridays (9:00am-9:00pm)
Saturdays (9:00am-9:00pm)

The cost of massages are as follows:
1-hr treatment ($130)
1 1/2-hr treatment ($190)
2-hr treatment ($250)

Packages may also be purchased:
3 1-hr treatments ($375, $125 each)
5 1-hr treatments ($600, $120 each)
12 1-hr treatments ($1380, $115 each)

3 1 1/2-hr treatments ($555, $185 each)
5 1 1/2-hr treatments ($900, $180 each)
12 1 1/2-hr treatments ($2100, $175 each)

3 2-hr treatments ($735, $245 each)
5 2-hr treatments ($1200, $240 each)
12 2-hr treatments ($2820, $235 each)

Eye treatment ($10)
Individual paraffin treatments ($5 per set of appendages - hands, feet, elbows).
Foot Revitalization Treatment ($10)
Hand Revitalization Treatment ($10)

I'm sorry, but I do not travel to homes.

Article - How Pain Hurts and Why Massage Helps!
http://www.thebodytherapycenter.com/Pain.htm

Goal: Management of chronic pain; Self-care
I have been experiencing pain is my right hip for over 13 years. The pain was intensified any time that I ran so consequently, I stop running and participating in Triathlon’s. Two years ago I began to run again and the hip flared up. This time, I persevered and dealt with the pain. I have been talking to Denise about getting a massage for quite some time and I finally made time to do it. Boy, am I glad I did. After just 6 treatments, even though I am pushing my speed with my running, my pain is gone. My hip is still a little stiff and I recognize I need to continue to work with the hip and stretch it, but it really is a blessing to be without pain in that hip. I can’t wait to see what she does for my neck! -- Maggie Schneider

Goal: Management of chronic pain; Relief of acute pain; Relaxation
I have an injured vertebra, C5, and have been receiving massage therapy from Denise for the last year. Denise’s skill has provided lasting relief. Denise has conducted herself in a professional manner and with a high degree of skill and knowledge. -- Rob Woodings

Goal: Management of chronic pain
I am a runner and cyclist. I had reached a point from my training and racing where I was constantly at the physical therapists being treated for injury after injury from all the stress I had been putting on my body. I was referred to Denise by a friend of mine. I have worked with Denise for over a year now, and I have not had any injuries since starting to work with her. In addition, most of my nagging aches and pains are gone. With her help, I have been able to get back into my regular training schedules and my times are starting to drop to where they were 3 years ago. I recommend any athlete who trains hard and wants to avoid injuries before they happen to visit Denise for her therapeutic massages. -- Bill Orr

Goal: Management of chronic pain; Relaxation
Over a year ago, I had such pain and limited motion in my right shoulder that I was ready to visit an orthopedic surgeon. I was sure that I had torn a rotator cuff and would need surgery. Although I tried massage therapy months earlier, nothing seemed to work. Fortunately, I visited Denise Lanigan before visiting a surgeon. Denise evaluated my condition and I began a series of weekly massages to address the problem. Within a month, the pain had decreased significantly and my range of motion had improved by 50%. All the pain was gone within two and a half months, and my range of motion was equal to, if not better than, my good arm. Since that time, I have maintained a massage schedule of once or twice a month and have been helped with smaller aches and pains. Denise is very knowledgeable and professional, and I recommend her highly. -- Chester R. Babst

Goal: Management of chronic pain; Stress management; Relaxation; Self care
Denise Lanigan has changed my life. I have been a road warrior for more years than I would like to remember. Stress related pain from too little exercise and too much travel have plagued me for the past ten years. I kept getting therapeutic massages that cured the symptoms temporarily, but never addressed the underlying causes. Denise introduced me to "bodywork" and I experienced relief from pain and range of motion that changed my outlook on everything. Denise is a healer. -- Jim Glessner

Goal: Management of chronic pain; Self-care
For me, Denise has provided what seems to be a miracle. I went to her several months ago with severe chronic pain, of unknown origin, following injections, CT scans, MRIs and two back surgeries. I was resigned to chronic pain, with a limp, living on medication, tired, and unhappy. I have been to Denise once a week for several months, and today I am just about pain free, have no limp, hardly take Tylenol, and am energized and happy. Indeed a new woman, now taking better care of myself and attending yoga classes, which were impossible prior to my massage therapy. -- Diana Jannetta

Goal: Management of chronic pain; Relaxation; Lymphatic boost; Postural change; Self care; Energy balancing
Denise Lanigan provides the best bodywork I have ever received. I have sought massage for the past 15 years to control chronic back pain due to severe stenosis and a synovial cyst of the lumbar spine. Not only has Denise helped me maintain the active lifestyle that I enjoy (biking, skiing, hiking, camping and canoeing), but MRI results greatly improved while under her care. The cyst has resolved and the stenosis has changed from severe to moderate. And the relaxation factor . . . I find myself counting the days until my next session with Denise! -- Kathy Cypher

Goal: Management of chronic pain; Relief of acute pain; Rehabilitation of an injury; Relaxation; Stress Management; Self care
My name is Whitney Snyder and I am a tennis teaching professional and tennis coach in Pittsburgh, PA. Over the past several decades, I’ve played and taught tennis on the professional level. This sport has lead to multiple musculoskeletal and soft-tissue injuries. I have been to many physical therapists, massage therapists, chiropractors, and a host of other specialists. I must say that Denise is in a class of her own. She is extremely dedicated and understands the entire body. It is her passion to get her clients out of pain and back to their lives. She is thorough, conscientious, and very positive. Denise gave me specific exercises to do, hooked me up with a nutritionist, and sold me a stretching devise that has really targeted what I need to work on. I know for a fact that she will help you to recover, relax, and change your life for the better. Massage therapy is an absolute must with this gifted, special person. She’ll get you back in the game of life, I promise. -- Whitney Snyder, tennis professional and coach

Goal: Relaxation; Long-term health
Stress and emotional upheaval had crept into my life and I needed to get back to basics. Focusing on long-term health I realized that tension was distracting me from a healthy diet and exercise routine, rendering both ineffective. I needed to relax! Friends had mentioned yoga and meditation to me. Being unfamiliar with both I doubted my ability to achieve a calm, relaxed state necessary to do either. However, I knew it was a necessary first step. I sought out Denise Lanigan thanks to an enthusiastic referral from a friend of mine in the massage therapy industry. She worked with me extensively to come up with a plan that addressed my needs and concerns regarding relaxation with the ultimate goal of returning to an exercise regimen. I am happy to report that I have experienced a total reversal on my original perceptions of not being able to relax. Additionally, I had the unexpected joy of learning the strong connection between the mind and the body's ability to heal itself. The hot stone massage and lymph drainage therapy Denise implemented was right on the mark. Our pre-service discussions customized every visit based on what my stress level was at the time. Thanks to Denise's commitment to my needs and the scope of her expertise, I am well on my path to recovery and long term health! -- Mary Gott