Massage Therapy

Massage Therapy involves applying a variety of manual techniques to manipulate muscles and soft tissues of the body. During a treatment the therapist will use a number of different strokes varying in pressure and movement to aid relaxation and reduce muscular tension. Massage is combined with both passive movements and stretches to further enhance the benefits of the treatment.

The Massage Therapist works closely with the on-site school Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapist to carefully plan the most appropriate and beneficial treatment for each student.

The students at St Rose’s have complex and varying needs that require a responsive and adaptive approach. The Massage Therapist is onsite to help meet any needs that may arise.

The Massage Therapist also works closely with parents, Teachers, Teaching Assistants and care staff to deliver basic massage training and guidance. These useful skills can then be used to support learning by promoting relaxation or increased arousal levels, improve body awareness, enhance circulation encourage choice, two-way communication and turn taking.

Treatments take place in a quiet, relaxing environment and are generally delivered on a one-to-one basis.

Massage Therapy has been shown to have many physical benefits including:
• Pain Relief.
• Reduced muscle tone.
• Improved joint mobility and muscle length.
• Improved digestion.
• Improved circulation.
• Improved sleep.
• Improved eye contact.
• Reduced hypersensitivity which can lead to increased acceptance of touch.
• Improved body awareness

Massage can also be a positive sensory experience and support those students with sensory difficulties. Treatments can be designed to provide appropriate levels of tactile and proprioceptive stimulation as part of a wider sensory processing intervention.