Krystal Cade, CMT - Blog

Can Massage Therapy Help With Stress, Anxiety, Depression, and Grief?

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:00:00 GMT

If you’ve ever walked into my treatment room after a long week—shoulders tight, breathing shallow, nervous system on edge—you already know the answer feels like yes. But there’s also plenty of research that shows why massage therapy helps support mental and emotional well-being. I think this is incredibly important and relevant, given the realities of daily life in this day and age with... *gestures broadly*... everything going on in the world right now.

I’ve been a CAMTC-certified massage therapist for about 15 years. While my work is primarily focused on pain relief and recovery, over time it’s become clear that physical pain and emotional stress are deeply connected and often inseparable. If you've been to see me recently, it's that mind-body connection you may have already heard me talk about.

For many of us, waking up each day means carrying stress before the day even begins. We pick up our phones and start doomscrolling, taking in stories about public health and safety concerns, climate crises, rising costs of living, violence in the world, violence at the hands of governments, and information overload about all the terrible things happening. Many of us are carrying not just stress, but also grief and rage (personal, collective, or unspoken), and for some communities, including queer and marginalized people, this is usually compounded.

This stress isn’t just mental or emotional; it shows up physically in the body. Chronic stress affects muscle tension, breathing patterns, sleep quality, digestion, pain perception, and emotional resilience. The nervous system can become stuck in a near-constant state of alert.

Massage therapy obviously can’t change systemic problems, but it can help support the body’s ability to regulate itself in the face of them.

Massage and Stress: Anxiety, Depression, Grief

So... what does research actually say about massage therapy and mental health? Research consistently links massage therapy with reduced physiological stress responses. Studies show that massage can lower cortisol (the body’s primary stress hormone), increase parasympathetic (“rest-and-digest”) nervous system activity, and improve heart-rate variability. Even relatively short massage therapy sessions have been shown to help signal safety to the body, which is something many people rarely experience fully in everyday life.

It's important to mention that massage is not a replacement for mental health care, and it shouldn’t be presented as one. In practice, it works best as part of a broader support system, especially for people who have stress and emotional strain that shows up physically.

That being said, there is a growing body of research supporting massage therapy as a complementary approach for anxiety and depression.

These findings include:

reductions in anxiety symptoms following massage
improvements in mood when massage is used alongside standard care
increased levels of serotonin and dopamine (neurotransmitters involved in emotional regulation)
oxytocin release, associated with calm, connection, and a sense of safety

While current research specifically on massage for grief is still limited, we know that grief involves shared symptoms with anxiety and depression: heightened stress responses, muscle tension, disrupted sleep, nervous system overload. Massage can offer grounding, nonverbal support during these periods. There is no requirement to explain, perform, or process grief on the table. The body is simply allowed to be supported.

Safe, consensual touch can help restore a sense of physical grounding, and especially so for people who have learned to stay guarded in medical or public spaces.

Together, these effects help explain why people often feel calmer, more present, or more at ease after a session, even when external stressors haven’t changed.

What All This Looks Like in My Practice

To reiterate, I don’t treat massage as a substitute for mental health care, but I do see it as an important part of whole-person support. In my practice, that means listening carefully during intake, honoring names, pronouns, boundaries, and lived experience. I work with the nervous system rather than forcing change, and refer out when concerns fall outside my scope. This approach is the same one I use in all my sessions, with thoughtful communication centered on safety and consent.

Why does this matter? We’re living in a time when many people are expected to function at full capacity while carrying unprecedented levels of stress and uncertainty.

I know massage therapy won’t fix everything that’s going on in the world. But I also know it can help the body manage the weight of it: that tension you don’t notice until it eases, the shallow breathing that becomes habitual, the stress that quietly shapes pain and fatigue. Everyone deserves care that feels safe, respectful, and attuned... especially now.

If you’re curious about how massage therapy might support your stress, recovery, or overall well-being, I'm here to help. Click here if you'd like to book an appointment with me.

Don't forget to stay hydrated and take good care of yourself. 💜

References

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1093/ecam/nen029
https://www.lidsen.com/journals/icm/icm-04-04-058
https://pamelafitch-rmt.com/docs/MassageStratDepressedClients.pdf
https://ijtmb.org/index.php/ijtmb/article/view/1229/1319
https://www.proquest.com/openview/63c59c2af6c5c379b08a49b66255b0a2/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y

Confronting Common Massage Myths

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 19:34:48 GMT

I’ve been a rehabilitative massage therapist for 14 years now, and over that time, I’ve encountered many myths surrounding massage. I thought it might be helpful to dispel some of the most common myths I come across in my practice. I often find that these myths hinder people from allowing themselves to participate in massage therapy, so I hope you find this information both educational and eye-opening.

Myth 1: Massage is a luxury and only for relaxation.

When many people think of massage, they often think of a luxury spa first and foremost. While that is definitely a lovely type of massage, that is not the only kind. Several clinical and orthopedic massage modalities incorporate assessment, goals, and treatment plans. In my experience, many people are often shocked at how beneficial these types of treatments can be to their health, wellness, and general quality of life.

Myth 2: Massage is “new age” and has no basis in science.

I have come across a few people who have gotten the idea that massage is “woo-woo” (a pejorative term used to describe magical, spiritual, or pseudoscientific ideas). However, there have been several studies that have been done that have found evidence to support the many benefits of massage. According to some studies, it has been known to help with chronic pain, post-surgical or post-injury pain, stress and anxiety, as well as other physical and mental health challenges.
If you’re interested in the details of any of those findings, I found a great blog post that describes several of these and links case studies that support those claims here.

Myth 3: “No pain, no gain.”

One of the most interesting things I’ve noticed as a massage therapist is how often this belief comes up. I even believed it at one point, and for the first several years of my career I operated from this mindset. I learned with both experience and further education that it’s not always beneficial to try to “force” the body’s muscles into submission. In fact, sometimes it can do more harm than good. Now, some of us do receive a lot of felt benefits from a massage therapist that can (“finally!” I’ve heard clients say) dig into those bothersome achy spots with enough pressure to do the job. I’ve been amused to hear from a few of my clients that they chose me specifically because it says “heavy-handed” in my bio. But massage doesn’t have to hurt to be effective. Deep tissue doesn’t always have to mean deep pressure. While some discomfort can be normal, it should almost never be too painful to tolerate. The massage won’t work if your nervous system feels under attack and is trying to tighten, squirm away, or if you find you’re holding your breath. If that’s happening, it’s too much for your muscles to handle. Please don’t be afraid to speak up during your session. I want to ensure you feel comfortable, and invite you to let me know what amount of pressure feels good and what feels like too much.

Hopefully, this clears up some common misconceptions about massage therapy. If you’re interested in what I do, check out the rest of my website. And if you’re ready to book an appointment with me, you can do so by clicking here.

Krystal Cade, Certified Massage Therapist (#34647)

New Skills Unlocked: Myofascial Cupping & Scraping

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 19:25:56 GMT

Over the last couple of years, I have added new techniques and instruments to my practice, including myofascial cupping and scraping techniques. In June 2023, I took a Graston Technique intensive, and in April 2024 I trained in myofascial cupping. Using these new instruments and tools has added depth to my practice. The results can differ from manual massage therapy as they help me access areas of the soft tissue that may be harder to reach with my hands alone. For example, some muscle fibers don’t want to be squished, and it can be both painful and ineffective to try. Sometimes they need to be untangled, “brushed”, or lifted. That would be when cupping or scraping would come into play.

Why I began using tools in my practice…

Sometimes muscles are tight and stubborn, and using my hands alone isn’t as effective as I feel it could be. In certain cases, manual myofascial release techniques only get me so far, and it can be painful for the client (and the practitioner) to try deeper pressure. After practicing massage therapy for over 10 years, I have begun to feel the physical wear and tear on my own body. I wanted to find a way to preserve and take care of my body, while continuing to improve and develop my practice.

In my career as a massage therapist, I have had many deep tissue clients that want me to apply pressure as hard as possible. I’ve been happy to oblige that request, and was proud of my ability to do so for years. Unfortunately, I can’t do that forever. Furthermore, I have learned that applying too much pressure has the potential to backfire. As good as deeper pressure may feel to some people, the force can be too intense for the nervous system, resulting in muscles tightening up unconsciously to “fight back”. When that happens, massage may become extremely unhelpful and/or painful. As a side note, deep tissue massage doesn’t always have to mean deep pressure. Often using deeper pressure isn’t as effective as one might think.

Cupping: What is it, what does it do, and how do I use it?

Cupping therapy, also called myofascial decompression, is an ancient technique, going back as far as 5500 years. It is said to have been used in Ancient Egypt, Macedonia, Greece, Rome, China, and India. Over time it has moved through many parts of the world, with varying techniques and purposes. Traditionally fire was used to create suction, while today a hand pump is more common. Cups–typically made of plastic, silicone, or glass–are used to create suction or negative pressure, which makes space between the layers of tissue and muscle fibers.

I use a handheld vacuum pump and plastic cups, placing cups directly over the tissue that is being worked on. The vacuum lifts the tissue and helps to separate “stuck” muscle fibers and fascia. Cupping often helps to relieve muscle tension, improve mobility, decrease inflammation, and increase circulation to the targeted areas thus facilitating the healing of connective tissue.

My experience using myofascial cupping with clients…

I used to experience sessions where it felt like the tissue was asking for something that I couldn’t give. During such sessions, I felt tight and stuck tissue that wouldn’t move no matter how hard I dug my elbow in. Now when I apply myofascial cupping in these circumstances, I find the technique works much better than deep pressure, and clients have observed a noticeable difference as well. It’s not only made my job easier, but I have been able to accomplish so much more in a shorter amount of time with several of my clients.

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization aka Myofascial Scraping

Myofascial scraping is a technique that uses specially designed beveled edge tools to apply strokes to the fascia and connective tissue. It is believed to have origins in Gua Sha, a traditional Chinese medicine practice designed to stimulate healing by boosting circulation to affected areas using objects such as soup spoons and polished stones. IASTM is somewhat different as its primary goal is to address myofascial restrictions, and the instruments are usually made of stainless steel. These instruments are used to target deeper layers of tissue, such as damaged or frayed muscles and tendons, as well as scar tissue.

IASTM has been found to decrease pain and muscle tension, improve range of motion, break down adhesions and scar tissue, increase blood flow and lymphatic drainage, and ultimately promote tissue regeneration. The Graston TechniqueⓇ is a specific style of IASTM that was designed to identify, stretch, separate, and break down fascial adhesions and scar tissue. It has a specific protocol and specialized stainless steel instruments with convex and concave designs that may differ from other IASTM methods.

In my practice, I integrate what I’ve learned in my Graston training into my sessions, using Graston shaped instruments as well as others I may have found. I use them to apply pressured brushing and sweeping strokes to the surface of the skin, which creates a “detangling” effect in the soft tissue beneath. This breaks up any tissue that may feel glued or stuck and helps frayed fibers in the muscle fascia to heal and reintegrate. The scraping action is also known to kickstart the body’s natural healing process, thus helping the body repair itself.

My experience using myofascial scraping with clients…

I find that IASTM and scraping techniques can be a way to get down into the deeper layers of fascia that are normally harder to get to. Or at least a less intense way, as the sensation is usually much more subtle than people expect. I have had a few clients request this technique when an area is too tender or painful to work on with manual massage. The results of using IASTM are often profound, with several people reporting a feeling of relief they didn’t think possible.

Manual massage therapy may achieve incredible results on its own, but sometimes circumstances call for reinforcement. Adding both cupping and scraping techniques to my massage practice has made things easier for both my clients’ bodies and mine. There is no need for unnecessary pain for anyone when a less painful and potentially more effective treatment can be used. I’m thrilled to have integrated these new skills into my work.

If you’re interested in trying one or both of these techniques with me, just let me know at the beginning of your next session. I am always available if you have further questions on these practices and if they’re suitable for your particular concerns. Either way, I look forward to connecting with you soon! Please book an appointment by clicking here.

Piriformis Syndrome: A Pain in the Butt

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 23:21:15 GMT

“I keep getting that deeeeeep pain in the rear!” my client says. “I can’t seem to stretch where it hurts.”

Can you relate? But what is it?

Your butt? Sciatica? Or something else?

The most common culprit is piriformis syndrome.

The piriformis is a small, pizza-slice-shaped muscle that lies deep under the gluteus maximus and controls external rotation of the hip and stabilization of the pelvis.

It can be a real pain in the butt.

It can cause symptoms like pain, numbness, burning, and tingling (which could extend all the way from the hip to the toes).

Many of the people I see with this pain, have been told by their doctor (or Dr. Google) that they have sciatica, when it's often piriformis syndrome.

Both the pinching of the sciatic nerve by vertebrae in the spine (sciatica) or the compression of the sciatic nerve by a tight piriformis muscle in the butt (piriformis syndrome) can cause pain to radiate up into the back or down the leg. As a result, most people--even doctors--associate it with sciatica. Symptoms can overlap, and medically it may be kind of a ‘same difference’ situation, but it does matter in regard to massage treatment.

The major difference between sciatica or piriformis syndrome is where the compression occurs.

Sciatica is pain resulting from compression of the nerve at the lumbar vertebrae in the spine. This can be caused by spinal rotation, vertebral disc compression or asymmetrical pelvic rotation and usually, but not always, sends pain, tingling and numbness down the entire length of the leg. In many cases of sciatica, there will also be pain in the buttocks.

Piriformis syndrome is caused when the piriformis muscle, which lies on top of the sciatic nerve, gets too tight and spasms, causing it to compress the sciatic nerve, like a kink in a garden hose. Pain is often centered in the middle of the butt (glutes) and can be tender to the touch and/or painful when sitting. In some cases, the spasm will occur in the glute.

What causes the piriformis to tighten up?

Excessive amounts of sitting - This can cause the piriformis to stretch and compress the sciatic nerve. Also, it can cause pelvic instability because the glutes, piriformis and other muscles become underactive. This can lead to the muscle going into spasm when asked to suddenly perform a strenuous activity such as running. You're asking it to perform under stress (running) when it's not prepared to. Kind of like a pop-quiz.

Excessive internal rotation of the femur - When your foot turns in like a pigeon this is internal rotation, and it causes the piriformis to lengthen. The piriformis is an EX-ternal hip rotator, so excessive internal rotation will cause it to lengthen too much and over time become overactive trying to hold that lengthened position. This often leads to trigger points and overly tight (hypertonic) muscle fibers.

Poor pelvic floor/core control - Having a strong pelvic floor and core stability is not necessarily having 6-pack abs. If you're a runner or dancer, core stability is a must to reduce the risk of many types of athletic injuries. A weak core causes other muscle groups to pick up the slack, which causes them to work harder and will eventually lead to fatigue and overactivity.

Additionally, piriformis dysfunction also often results in tight inner thigh muscles (adductors).

Your physician or physical therapist should be able to assess and differentiate between true sciatica and piriformis syndrome and give you an official diagnosis. As a massage therapist, I can’t diagnose, but we can work together to solve the issue regardless of an official diagnosis.

Treating Piriformis Syndrome - Luckily, piriformis syndrome is relatively easy to treat, in most cases. Here are 4 simple and effective ways you can get rid of piriformis syndrome.

Ice - sitting on a bag of frozen peas can help to reduce inflammation and swelling, which in turn can take some pressure off the nerve. Just remember not to overdo it. Inflammation is your body's way of healing, so a little inflammation is a good thing.

Stretching - One of my favorite yoga stretches for the piriformis is pigeon pose (modify to suit your body's ability; don't try to go any deeper than you can tolerate). This effective pose will target not only the piriformis, but the glutes and deep hip rotators. However, if your piriformis is tight because of too much internal rotation, it’s far better to stretch the inner thigh (adductors) to take some stress off the piriformis.

Foam rolling - Using a foam roller, ball, or other tools to target trigger points of the muscle or relieve stress on the attachment points at the sacrum or the top of the thigh bone (greater trochanter of the femur) can help relieve pressure on the nerve as well.

Be sure to use the correct tool for rolling. I often have clients use lacrosse balls, which is a very hard tool. However, more pressure is not always better. "No pain, no gain" is the wrong motto here. A tennis ball might be more appropriate, especially at first.

Like massage, you need to work within your body's pain tolerance level and work with your nervous system. You also only need 30-60 seconds of sustained pressure to get relief. More or longer pressure can make an already irritated muscle worse and can cause issues up to and including nerve damage. Meet your body where it's at.

One more thing: you also want to be careful not to accidentally compress the nerve yourself.
If you're unsure of how to use a tool, just ask, I'll be more than happy to give you a demonstration.

Massage - If stretching and foam rolling isn’t enough or you just don't want to do the DIY method, it might be time to see a professional. A licensed or certified massage therapist has the dexterity and training to get into areas a foam roller cannot or help stretch you in ways you may not be able to do alone.
If you're ready to take that step, you can book your next appointment here.

Once the soft tissue dysfunction is removed, strengthening the glutes, core, and hip flexors is recommended for lasting results. A corrective exercise specialist, personal trainer, or physical therapist may be able to help with specific exercises to strengthen weak muscles to keep the problem from returning.

Can Massage Help Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT

Have you ever experienced numbness and tingling in the arm or even into the hand, and your doctor has ruled out carpal tunnel? Believe it or not, the issue might not actually be in your hand or wrist; it could be Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS).

The thoracic outlet is a narrow space between your collarbone and the top of your first rib. Muscles, nerves, and blood vessels run through that opening or “tunnel.”

When the tunnel becomes blocked, it can cause dysfunction in the nerves and other structures that run through it.

There are 3 types of thoracic outlet syndrome: neurogenic, venous, and arterial. The latter two are sometimes grouped together and referred to as vascular TOS. Although vascular TOS is rare, it can be very serious. It can be caused by a blood clot or aneurysm in the veins or arteries beneath the collarbone. It’s generally safest to get a diagnosis from a physician or physical therapist to rule out vascular TOS before seeking massage as treatment, as massage could cause more harm.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, consult your primary care doctor immediately:

Bluish coloring of hand
Paleness in one or more fingers
Swelling in the arm or hand
Cold feeling in the hand or arm
Throbbing lump under the collarbone
Blood clots in the upper body
Weak grip

Okay, disclaimers over. You still with me? :P

The third type (neurogenic TOS) can be treated with massage, is the most common, and will be what we are actually discussing.

Neurogenic TOS affects the bundle of nerves called the brachial plexus (see images). These are nerves that come from your spinal cord at the cervical (neck) spine and lead from the neck down to the arm. When muscles in the neck and shoulder become too tight and impinge (clamp down) on the brachial plexus, this can cause pain in the neck, shoulder, and/or arm. It also can often cause tingling, numbness, and even weakness. This is why it’s quite commonly misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome. Symptoms can be consistent or they can come and go. They are usually worse when arms are raised above the head, raised in an upward position for too long, or when sleeping on the shoulder of the affected arm.

What causes TOS?

The causes of TOS often vary. It can be a result of a traumatic injury like whiplash, or from overdeveloped muscles from something like bodybuilding. It can also very commonly be from repetitive movements or a certain posture from a job or hobby. This would be especially so if the activity causes a person’s head to come forward excessively, causes their shoulder to roll forward, or requires them to have their arms over their head a lot. And weirdly and frustratingly to some, TOS can also have no known cause or origin at all.

Hairdressers, auto mechanics, carpenters, plumbers, and health care workers are some of the many professions more likely to develop TOS than others, simply due to the body mechanics required to perform their job. Individuals who work on computers for long periods, housekeepers, and people who enjoy hobbies like swimming or painting can also develop TOS. Even carrying a heavy shoulder bag, purse or briefcase over a long period can result in someone developing TOS.

A structural anomaly like an extra rib can also be a contributing factor.

So, can massage help?

Yes, maybe, probably. (I know, super helpful.)

In all honestly, it really depends on if the TOS is caused by a structural or functional anomaly.

If the TOS is caused by a structural anomaly such as subluxations (that's when a joint is slightly out of alignment) in the cervical spine, or from an extra rib, it’s best to consult a physical therapist, chiropractor, or osteopath to free up a cervical spine impingement first. Addressing both structural and functional causes of TOS can provide much better and longer term relief.

If the TOS is caused by a functional anomaly such as tight neck muscles, overuse, or positional and postural issues, massage techniques that target trigger points can help relieve muscle tension (like trigger point therapy and myofascial release), and reduce or eliminate muscle-related nerve impingement. Other techniques that can be used are gentle stretching and passive range-of-motion movements, and can help restore full movement to the area. These are all techniques I can provide as a massage therapist.

How do you keep TOS from coming back?

Unfortunately, short of a career change or new hobby, those with TOS may experience recurring symptoms if causes remain unaddressed, such as tight muscles, repetitive movement, or poor posture between sessions.

Self massage with myofascial trigger point release, followed by gentle stretching, are great exercises to help manage TOS between sessions. I can teach you how to do this if you'd like.

I highly recommend using a tool like a Theracane or a tennis or lacrosse ball against the wall or lying on the floor can help release tension by targeting specific tender spots in the muscle tissue. Your massage therapist (it's me, hi!) can help identify which muscles you should focus on and show you how to do the exercise correctly. There's a lot going on in this part of the body, and you don’t want to risk further nerve damage or damage to veins and arteries.

Remember, just because it feels good doesn’t mean you need to dig in deeper; you might actually be doing more damage this way.

Consulting a physical therapist for strengthening exercises to improve your posture will also help.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome doesn’t have to stop you from doing things you enjoy!

If you would like to see if massage can help relieve your TOS-related pain, you can book an appointment with me by clicking here.

https://www.webmd.com/brain/thoracic-outlet-syndrome#091e9c5e81bcb7f3-1-3
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/thoracic-outlet-syndrome
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thoracic-outlet-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20353988

Can Massage Therapy Help Headaches?

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 19:41:32 GMT

An estimated 45 million Americans complain of headaches annually, which makes it the most common complaint or symptom in medicine today. The pain can range from mild annoyance to a debilitating migraine that feels like someone stuck an ice pick through your brain. Additionally, headaches can interfere with productivity, concentration, and overall quality of life.

When you have a headache, it can be hard to function normally until you find relief. But treatments vary from myths and anecdotes to medical facts, and it's difficult to know which techniques are actually helpful. Not every remedy works on every type of headache. Let's look at the different types of headaches and treatments available, including massage. Before we take a look at the most common types of headaches including tension, sinus, migraine, dehydration, cluster, injury and medication-induced headaches, I want to highlight the fact that is some cases headaches can be the result of a more serious issue (such as an aneurysm, stroke or high, uncontrolled blood pressure).

Tension Headaches - As the name suggests, tension headaches are the result of holding tension in your body. Holding stress in your shoulders, clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth, and spending too much time staring at a computer screen or a smart phone can all lead to tension headaches. Tension headaches mainly occur in the temples or the forehead and often feel like a vice grip around your head. They range from mild to severe and are most commonly treated with over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Sinus Headaches - Nasal congestion and inflammation from allergies or sinusitis can cause your nasal passages to swell. This blocks the nasal cavity and prevents mucus from being able to drain. Sinus headaches are generally located in the front of the face, between your eyes and/or cheekbones. Taking an antihistamine or other allergy medication for allergy induced sinus headaches can help prevent them from occurring. Mild sinus headaches that result from a sinus infection can sometimes be cleared up by rinsing your nasal passage using a neti-pot or saline rinse. More severe sinus infections will require antibiotics and possibly OTC pain medication.

Migraines - Typically occurring on one side of the head, migraines affect approximately 35 million people in the US. Symptoms include pulsing, and can be accompanied by nausea, dizziness, sensitivity to light and/or sound, and hallucinations (like auras or halos). Some people experience migraines only rarely, while other people experience them on an near daily basis. These types of headaches can be debilitating and most likely to interfere with quality of life. Mild migraine headaches can sometimes be managed with NSAIDS (Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) while more moderate and severe migraines might require prescription medication. Botox is another treatment option that has been proven effective in clinical trials. However, it is best to consult your doctor before deciding if this is the best treatment option for you.

Cluster - As the name suggests, these headaches usually happen in clusters or cyclical periods ranging from weeks to months, followed by long periods of remission. Cluster headaches usually present as pain around or behind the eye that can often wake you up in the middle of the night. During an episode, cluster headaches will occur daily or sometimes multiple times a day and can last from 15 minutes to 3 hours. Due to the rapid and intense onset of this type of headache, you may feel exhausted once the headache has disappeared. Treatment options for cluster headaches include prescription medication, injectables such as Botox and oxygen therapy.

Secondary Headaches - These are not conditions themselves, but symptoms of other conditions. Secondary headaches can be the result of dehydration, medication or caffeine misuse/overuse, head injury, or illness such as pink-eye (conjunctivitis) and meningitis. Pain from secondary headaches can successfully be managed with NSAIDs. However it's important to focus on getting the appropriate medical treatment for any underlying condition.

Can Massage Help?

The good:

Tension headaches, the type of headaches people are most likely to experience, seem to respond well to massage therapy. Not only does massage often seem to reduce pain in the moment, but consistent massage therapy also appears to increase the amount of time between headaches for those who experience them on a chronic basis. This may be a result of helping to manage stress. Or it may be that it helps resolve the underlying mechanical issues resulting in headaches. There's no solid science yet on precisely why massage helps; only that it does.

More good news! It probably doesn't surprise anyone that people who experience regular headaches are also more likely to experience high levels of stress, depression, and anxiety. Studies have found that massage can help with these issues, not just for the general population, but also specifically for people who live with chronic headaches.

Some people with secondary headaches can also benefit from massage. Those with fibromyalgia, for example, who often experience headaches as part of their condition, can experience both pain and stress relief with regular massage therapy. While massage during a flare-up of symptoms may need to be modified to be more gentle, some people find that it can provide relief for headaches, as well as for pain throughout the body.

The bad:

Massage therapy is wonderful and often helpful, but it's not a cure for headaches. While some people just need a bit of rest or a drink of water (dehydration is a surprisingly common cause of headaches), other people continue to experience headaches their whole lives. While people who experience headaches caused by stress or muscular tension can and will absolutely benefit from massage, migraines triggered by things like foods or hormonal changes probably won't notice any effect.

The ugly:

There are some times when getting a massage for headaches is more than just unhelpful, it's actually dangerous. Most often, this will be related to secondary headaches. Fevers, for example, often cause headaches as well as achy joints. While this could lead someone to want to receive massage, it not only risks overly stressing a body that's already fighting off an infection, but it also has the possibility of spreading the illness to the massage therapist and anyone else they come into contact with. Another example, such as headaches resulting from a recent head, neck, or back injury could also be made worse by a well-meaning massage therapist.

When there is the possibility of pain being caused by an illness or injury, it's best to seek out a physician's opinion first. They can provide or recommend appropriate care for the issue causing the headache in the first place, and at that point you can ask them about whether it would be okay to receive a massage. It's always better to be safe than sorry!

While we massage therapists are still exploring the use and efficacy of techniques like trigger point therapy and myofascial work for tension headaches, many people find the results are worth paying a professional. And even if massage does not help your headaches, you might find that the soothing experience of a massage is a nice tradeoff while you seek other headache relief.

If you are ready to schedule a session with me, click here.

Below is a video of me demonstrating a qigong neck stretch that may help with some tension headaches.

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A post shared by Krystal Cade, CMT (@krystalcade.cmt)

Why I Practice Massage Therapy

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 20:44:19 GMT

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
― Maya Angelou

I have been practicing massage therapy for 11 years now. I’ve been reflecting on what initially drew me to this practice and why I love doing it. The profoundness I find in this work is both humbling and empowering. In hopes of connecting with you a bit more, I want to share some of these insights.

So why do I do this work?

It gives me purpose
I know what it's like to struggle with chronic pain and discomfort. It depletes your energy and gets in the way of daily living and as a massage therapist, I want to help my clients in alleviating their pain. This process of helping my clients with pain management and stress relief gives me great purpose.

I like to use my hands
I always knew that I was a tactile person that enjoyed using my hands. As an active person drawn to movement and touch, I find massage incredibly grounding and centering. I also enjoy using the power of touch to calm the nervous system and help my clients feel grounded as well.

There is a touch deficiency in the world
I can feel around me that our society is touch deprived and I believe that massage can offer a safe and therapeutic space to address that. Through massage I am able to process my own touch deficiency and hopefully help others that deal with this in a professional setting.

I like puzzles and mysteries
When I work with a client, it's a bit like solving a puzzle as I learn what their body needs to feel its best. This intuitive problem solving aspect of massage is stimulating and exciting to me. Massage at its best, is a collaborative process where I help my clients find solutions to recurring issues in the body.

I do well in small group settings, and best in one on one
As someone with ADHD, I’ve always preferred one on one connections over being in large groups. Massage allows me to focus on a single client and purpose: helping them feel better in their body. This is another reason why I love massage, it provides me with focused work and allows me to build impactful relationships with my clients.

I am a muscle geek
As a kid, I was fascinated by anatomy and science. To this day, I am constantly seeking to learn more about the human body and how to best tend to it. Learning new massage techniques is something I take great pleasure in and I’ve studied trigger point, myofascial release, sport massage and prenatal massage. I am in the process of learning more about oncology massage and lymphatic massage.

I am really good at it
Developing my massage skills over the past 11 years has allowed me to help numerous people. Every time someone leaves a session feeling relieved and more comfortable in their body, it gives me added motivation to continue my work.

I know that I’m a talented massage therapist and using my skills to help others brings me incredible joy and happiness. I look forward to sharing my skills and passion with you.

What You Get From A $130 Massage

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 22:13:43 GMT

For most people, money is the biggest obstacle to getting regular massage. We don’t like to talk about money, it’s supposed to be a private issue. But I’m going to address it head on. Regular massage is a considerable budget item, and it’s important to acknowledge that.
If I expect you to jiggle the numbers and budget $130 for a massage every week, month, or quarter, it’s my job to tell you what you’re buying. So here it is, what you get from a 1 hour, $130 massage.

Clarity in Pricing
What I charge is clearly listed here.
Gratuity is accepted and appreciated, but not required.

A Full Hour
1 hour = 60 minutes. The clock doesn’t start until I walk in the room and lay my hands.
That’s not the case for every business. Massage Envy’s hour is 50 minutes. Elements gives you 55 minutes.
Even some spas and chiropractic centers operate on a 50-minute hour. But in my office, 30, 60, 90, and 120 minute treatments last exactly as long as indicated. (Unless you’re late, then I may have to adjust accordingly.)

Ease of Scheduling
Scheduling tends to be the second biggest obstacle to getting regular massage. We never think of scheduling massage at a time that is actually convenient to call. I take all that out of the equation to make it easier for both of us. No phone tag. No waiting for a message reply.
You can schedule with me online right here.

Attention
You get my full and undivided attention. For a whole hour, you are center of the universe - the star! You are the reason we’re in the room.
Need silence? You got it!
Want me to spend the full hour on your feet? Absolutely!
Music request? Sure!
Extra pillow? No problem!
You get your own full attention. No phone. No demands. Just you.

Experience
I’ve had 10 years of practice and hours of continuing education. They were all just prep for your massage.
I know how to work with fascia in the traps, scalenes, and occipitals to relieve tension headaches. I know how to release a hypertonic subscapularis muscle that is causing arm and shoulder pain and tingling in the fingers. I have trigger point techniques for back pain caused by tight hips muscles. I could go on, but you get the picture.

Clinical prudence
I won’t practice any techniques that are unsafe for you and your health condition.
I will not use joint movements if you have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. I will use safe pressure around your spine if you have degerative disc disease. I will not use deep pressure in any particularly swollen area, because I do not want to cause damage to your lymph system. And if I see any signs of deep vein thrombosis, I will avoid that area and inform you immediately and encourage you to get it checked it asap.
I’ll say it again. I won’t practice any techniques that are unsafe for you and your health condition.

Proper certification
There are plenty of massage therapists offering discounted massage, operating under the radar.
If a therapist is operating without all the proper licenses, their insurance will be voided in the event of a claim. That can be super scary.
You can check my certification anytime with California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC).

Insurance
I have and keep liability insurance coverage through ABMP (Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals) with Allied Professionals.

High-quality massage oil
I only use the best products on your skin. I use first-pressed jojoba, and it’s not exactly an oil. It’s an ester that is very similar to our naturally produced sebum. It is non-comedogenic, so it will not clog your pores. And it is hypoallergenic, so no worries if you have any topical allergies.

You get to support a small local business
It’s just me! No conglomerate. No fancy management structure or corporate set up. Just a little business owner, paying her taxes, making a living, and participating in the same communities she serves. When you pay $130 for a massage with me, you know that money is staying in the local economy.

All that, from a $130 massage. :)

What to Expect for Your First Massage

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 16:45:52 GMT

A massage is generally intended to be a calm and relaxing experience. However, if it’s your first massage, you may feel a little apprehensive.
Let me help with that uncertainty by sharing some information about what to expect. You’ll be able to walk into your first massage feeling confident!

Expect Communication

When you book your appointment, you’ll fill out an intake form including information about yourself, your health history, and what your body may experience on a daily basis. Your clear and honest answers will help me perform the best massage possible for you.

Expect several questions at your first massage appointment. I may need to know a little bit more about your health history.

We’ll also talk about why you’re coming in for a massage and what your goals are for the session. Are you having pain? Do you need to relax?

I’ll show you the massage room and walk you through the process. We’ll decide what to prioritize and how you should lay on the table (face up or face down, or on your side) before the massage.

Expect to Dress or Undress to Your Level of Comfort

What does that mean exactly? Many people worry about having to be undressed for their massage. Most massage techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, what you wear is entirely up to you. Simply put: you can leave your underwear on or take them off.

I’ll leave the room so you can undress, get on the massage table (it’s super cozy), and get comfortable under the sheet & blanket.

Movies and TV shows often show massage clients naked on a table with just a tiny towel for draping, and that is rarely what real massage draping looks like. I use sheets that cover your whole body. You’ll stay covered throughout the massage, I’ll only undrape the part of your body that I am massaging right then.

Expect More Communication

When I come back into the room, I’ll help you get comfortable by adjusting or adding pillows or bolsters. I will ask about the temperature of the table and ask if you’d like the warmer turned up or down. Don’t be afraid to adjust and fidget as needed during the massage to stay comfy.

It’s awesome if you can let your body relax and sink into the table. If I need to move your arms or legs, etc, I prefer to do the work! This takes practice, and you’ll probably try to help me. And I’ll try to remind you. ;)

It’s really important for you to tell me if any massage techniques I use cause pain. Pain is not okay.
There is likely to be a certain level of discomfort and ‘hurts-so-good’ sensation if we’re working on a problem area. And it’s important that you tell me about that, too, so we can tailor the massage to be most effective without causing injury.

I’ll check in with you as we go, but please speak up if you get too warm or too cold, if the face cradle needs adjusting, if you are not comfortable on the table, if you need another pillow, or if you just hate the music! (I do take music requests)

I’ll let you know when the massage is over and then leave the room so you can slowly get up and dressed.

Expect Some Final Instructions

Depending of the kind of work we did, you should generally expect to feel mellow and relaxed after your massage. You may also feel like you can move a little easier. We’ll talk about how you feel and I may show you some self care stretches or share some tips to keep you feeling great between appointments. If you’d like, we can also talk about how frequently you may want to get massage to keep on feeling great.

If we addressed pain issues, you may immediately feel a decrease in pain, or it might take a day or two before you feel that relief.

You’ve already made the first step in making the most of your first massage by learning what to expect. Next, when you come in, you can ask all the questions you like! That way we can make sure you feel comfortable before, during, and after the session.

See you at your first massage! :)