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A Description of 

Integrative Myofascial Bodywork

Integrative Myofascial Bodywork [IMB] is essentially my style of bodywork. I concentrate on addressing the fascial system of the body via the skin, thereby affecting other structures to make positive change. However, this does not mean your muscles are ignored. I combine other techniques as needed, primarily positional release/Ortho-Bionomy, and cranio- sacral therapy, customizing the work to each person. My focus is on therapy and healing; it involves a thorough assessment, dialogue, and frequent "checking in" with the client. 

 

Any work performed is always to the client's tolerance level. I do not use oils, creams, or lotions. If a person is more comfortable doing so, they can wear loose athletic clothing during their session vs. being draped with sheets; in fact, wearing athletic clothing makes the bodywork easier to do.  I often spend a full 60 minute session on 1-2 areas of a client's 'trouble spots,' so it is not very similar to full-body relaxation massage, though the full body can be worked on, especially in longer sessions.  

 

In all cases, the work is client-driven with the goals being decreased pain, increased range of motion, and/or increased athletic performance. 


 

What is Fascia & How do You Work on it?

What is Cranio-Sacral Therapy (CST) & Visceral Manipulation?

 

What is Positional Release?


Fascia--or the myofascial system--is essentially the thick, fibrous, "white stuff" that runs around, between, and through everything in our bodies: muscles, bones, organs, etc. It thickens to become the tendons and ligaments at junctures. Just like muscles, it can have trigger points, and tightness in one area may adversely affect other parts of the body.


Fascia has many layers. It can be addressed in both a gentle and firm manner. Manual Therapy and Myofascial Release use sustained, gentle pressure to relax the tissue. Latz's Connective Tissue Massage (CTM), and Structural Integration (SI), based in Rolfing®, uses a firmer touch with a stronger "stretch," that can feel akin to foam roller sensations; it is for people who prefer more intense work. There is no use of oil, creams, or lotions with fascial work and manual therapy, though liquid chalk, fascial emollient, or Dycem® non-stick material may be used to increase skin contact and/or enhance the stretch.


CST is specific fascial work focused on the cranial bones, fluid and fascia that is part of the central nervous system. It is gentle, highly targeted work that can have broad, wide-ranging effects on the body. It can be done with a person lying on a table or sitting, so no disrobing is required. 

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Dynamic Body Balancing incorporates this work and myofascial work, together. Visceral Manipulation targets specific organs of the body, and can also be used with CST.  

 

Unlike Connective Tissue Massage or Myofascial work, the moves and techniques are generally consistent in "holds" (hand positions), though the fascial unraveling pattern is unique to an individual


Positional release is a gentle, non-invasive technique intended to release trigger points and tight, spastic muscles. The body or limb is moved into a position of comfort and the area of pain is held with gentle pressure until it unwinds. Though Ortho-Bionomy is a different technique, there are some similar principles, which is why I also use it. 


Andrea at Hanging Lake, CO

About Andrea, Your Therapist

I am a graduate (2002) of Blue Sky School of Massage in Wisconsin and have passed the MBLEx licensure exam. I am a Certified Massage Therapist (CMT) who also holds Wisconsin state licensure. I have over 750 hours of initial training, and 400+ hours of continuing education in various modalities, both manual and energy techniques. I specialize in working with athletes, those healing from injuries, and people in chronic pain. As an endurance athlete who has completed over 15 American Birkebeiners and countless triathlons, I understand the toll training can take on a person's body. I have also had a few surgeries, and can relate to those who live with daily discomfort. I believe bodywork is imperative for a person to function properly--physically, mentally, and/or emotionally. 

Extensively Educated

I focus on the fascial system and positional release. I have training in many modalities between my core classes at Blue Sky and ongoing continuing education. Pertinent to my specialty, CEUs include:

  • Connective Tissue Massage (CTM) with John Latz 
  • Manual Therapy with Walt Fritz 
  • Myofascial Release (Barnes' MFR) 
  • Dry-cupping & Kinesio-taping
  • Orthopedic massage with James Waslaski 
  • Russian Sports & Medical Massage
  • Reiki 
  • Upledger & Heartwood Cranio-Sacral Therapy
  • Ortho-Bionomy
  • Dynamic Body Balancing

Additionally, I have certifications in:

  • Orthopedic and Clinical Rehabilitative Massage with Whitney Lowe/NCBTMB
  • Medical Massage
  • Structural Integration (based in Rolfing®) with the Lyons Institute 
  • I am currently working on becoming certified in Visceral Manipulation with the Barral Institute, Dynamic Body Balancing, and Heartwood CST

Andrea with James Waslaski



Treatment Room

Therapy Space for You

PRIVATE TREATMENT ROOM AFFORDS CLIENTS:

  • An electric lift table for easy on/off, especially for those in rehab/PT, or those with joint replacements, bad backs, etc.
  • Space heater in winter 
  • Ultrasonic aromatherapy diffuser 
  • Himalayan salt crystal lamp

 

Link to Client Bill of Rights

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