Western medical acupuncture is the use of acupuncture following a medical diagnosis. It involves stimulating sensory nerves under the skin and in the muscles. This results in the body producing natural substances, such as pain-relieving endorphins. It's likely that these naturally released substances are responsible for the beneficial effects experienced with acupuncture. A course of acupuncture usually creates longer lasting pain relief than when a single treatment is used.

Sports massage is a form of massage involving the manipulation of soft tissue to benefit a person engaged in regular physical activity. Soft tissue is connective tissue that has not hardened into bone and cartilage; it includes skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia (a form of connective tissue that lines and ensheathes the other soft tissues). Sports massage is designed to assist in correcting problems and imbalances in soft tissue that are caused from repetitive and strenuous physical activity and trauma. The application of sports massage, prior to and after exercise, may enhance performance, aid recovery and prevent injury.

Pregnancy massage is a specially adapted gentle and soothing massage tailored specifically for the mother-to-be. As a term, ‘pregnancy massage’ applies to any hands-on massage treatment for a woman during her pregnancy. It can therefore vary enormously in terms of what it consists of. However, for many women, pregnancy massage benefits include easing aches and pains, as well as facilitating relaxation and preparation for labour.

Our trained and professional massage therapists will deliver a tailored and unique pregnancy massage lasting either 60 or 90 minutes. The therapist will listen to your particular concerns regarding any tension or pain, and work to facilitate deep relaxation, helping you to enjoy your pregnancy and alleviate any unwanted symptoms.

As with other body massages, you’ll lie on a massage table and you may be given additional cushions or specially shaped bolsters, to make lying more comfortable. Usually you’ll lie on your side, particularly later in pregnancy, when this is more comfortable.

There are many different massage techniques which can be drawn on by the therapist for pregnancy massage. Typically, deeper tissue techniques will be avoided, and more gentle techniques will be used. Anecdotally, we all know how wonderful a good massage can be, but there isn’t much research to explain why it works. Therefore, massage therapists are generally gentler when massaging a pregnant client.

During pregnancy, the woman’s body goes through many changes; a pregnancy massage will be mindful of these. For example, blood volume during pregnancy increases by as much as 50%. This causes pressure on the lower legs. The therapist will avoid deep tissue massage here and instead use light, relaxing and long strokes which help circulation.

For this treatment ladies will need to be in their second trimester. If there have been complications during the pregnancy, approval from a medical professional will be needed before proceeding with the treatment.