Friction therapy is performed directly on the involved body part. Usually a tendon or ligament. For that reason, it is more specific work than is regular deep tissue massage.

A.I.S. actually reaches more of the muscle than does deep tissue massage. An effective stretch will simultaneously work all parts of the muscle, tendon and surrounding tissue. Massage can work only work that part of the muscle or tendon that can be accessed with the hands.

Neither friction therapy nor A.I.S. are the same as typical 'sports massage'.   Howerver, both can be very effectively used for increased performance in sports for the serious and weekend athlete alike.   They can also be used for rehab-type work in the case of a sports injury.

This, of course, depends upon the specific condition(s) that are being addressed during the visit.

A session may consist of friction therapy or A.I.S. OR a combination. Sessions usually last at least one hour and, in many cases close to two hours. This time is needed to first assess your situation and then to perform necessary massage work.

Time is also taken to instruct the client in performing stretching and strengthening at home.

So while a session may be somewhat longer than a typical massage session, return visits are often not needed once the issue is resolved and the client begins self-care at home.

All types of massage therapy have their own specific purpose, and they have their own value. Orthopedic massage is a specialized form of therapy.

While all forms of massage (swedish, deep tissue, orthopedic, etc.) fall under the same scope of practice (and the same licensing requirements), they all do different things. It would be somewhat like asking a tax attorney to do criminal defense work or an obgyn physician to work as an eye doctor. They are all licensed to do the same general type of work but they have very different specialties.

Almost all of the work performed is done with the client fully clothed. At times some work may require direct access to the skin. During that time only that part of the body (low back for example) will be exposed.

It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothing to allow maximum comfort and movement during your session(s).

At this time, this type of massage is not covered by health care insurance.

Orthopedic massage does not need to be done under the direction of a doctor. You will, however, be encouraged to be seen by a licensed physician to rule out any other, more serious conditions that would require the care of a doctor.

The cost is $30.00 per hour.

Often the length of time needed for a session can be determined either during the initial visit or during an existing session when you are scheduling your next visit.

A typical A.I.S. session can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your needs and tolerance.

Friction therapy sessions will also vary in length depending upon your tolerance, the number of areas worked, etc. Also, stretching and strengthening may be incorporated into the session adding additional time.

If a session does last less than one hour, a minimum of $30.00 will be charged.