Massage Therapy

Massage therapy has been shown to have positive effects on your mind, body and spirit. Our massage therapists are trained in multiple massage modalities, which address a range of health needs, from general wellness to custom therapeutic experiences.

massage therapy

Principles

The foundation of all massage therapies is their ability to improve circulation of blood and lymphatic fluid, stimulate connective tissue and reduce stress. Stress and anxiety often manifest physically. Tension in the muscles can hinder blood flow and lymphatic fluid and, consequently, the healing process. Massage therapy provides the opportunity to release that tension and restore normal function.

Conditions Treated

Massage therapies may be included in treatment plans to treat a range of conditions, including the following:

  • Digestive issues
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Headaches
  • Lymphedema
  • Musculoskeletal pain
  • Restricting scars

Services

Clinicians at the Samueli Institute have experience in different types of massage therapy, each designed to achieve specific clinical goals. These include, but are not limited to:

Abdominal Therapy: Using a gentle massage movement, mild to moderate pressure is applied to the abdominal wall. This therapy has been shown to help with pelvic or digestive health issues.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): This noninvasive skin technique relies on a gentle touch to stimulate lymph flow and release fluid congestion or build-up in lymphatic tissues. MLD has shown positive results in the treatment of lymphedema, especially related to certain types of cancer and, specifically, breast cancer.

Neuromuscular Massage: Neuromuscular massage manipulates soft tissue to treat underlying causes of chronic pain involving the muscle and nervous system. This deep tissue massage addresses trigger points, muscle adhesions, and connective tissue patterns. Treatment is rooted in an understanding of fascial connective tissue system; nervous, skeletal and other major systems; and how they interact with one another. Neuromuscular therapy has been shown benefits for stress reduction, rehabilitation and prevention of chronic pain.

Oncology Massage: This modality is the modification of existing massage techniques in order to safely work with you if you have cancer, are undergoing cancer treatments or are in recovery. Its purpose is to comfort, nurture and support you in handling cancer-related issues. Benefits can include improved relaxation, sleep and immune function, as well relief from pain, anxiety and nausea.

Why Choose Us?

As part of the only academic medical center in Orange County, massage therapy at the Samueli Institute meets patients where they are in their journey to wellness. From cancer treatments to post-surgical recovery to anxiety, the various modalities offered at the institute assist in balancing the body and mind so you can live your healthiest life.

Our Team

3 results found.
Laurel de Graaf Garcia
Laurel de Graaf Garcia, LMT
Massage Therapist
Natasha Harris
Natasha Harris, BCTMB, LMT, CDT, AP, YTRx, POLY
Massage Therapist
Shawn Maier
Shawn Maier, CMT
Massage Therapist

Price

Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute accepts a variety of insurance plans or private pay. Your visit may be subject to copay and deductible. Please contact us at 949.824.7000 for more information.