Thai Massage Therapy - Totally Different from Typical/Swedish Massage

[Adam Reyer]

OK, after today's A.R.T. Treatment by Andy Smith (to bang out the last remnants of fibrosis in my shoulder capsule and knee before heading out to Tahoe and its measley 150" base), I decided to try a Thai Massage from Pam Ruangsakvicht, the massage therapist at Tim Scheuerman & Andy Smith's Advanced Chripractic Office in Sterling, VA. Both Tim and Andy told me that Pam was excellent and coordinates her therapy with a patient's treatment. Well, the massage was great and completely different from the typical Swedish Massage. Basically, you lie down on your back and sides on a mattress on the floor, and Pam applies a combination of Accupressure (with her hands, forearms and elbows) and forceful, Yoga-like stretches. She also spends a lot of time on the feet and hands.

The massage felt great, was very relaxing and helped my middle back, which had been aggravated by my shoulder injury. It also seemed to loosen my joints more than a typical Yoga session would do. Finally, it was reasonably priced at $80 for the hour.

A description of Thai Massage from the Advanced Chiropractic website is below, along with Pam's general schedule - I'd highly recommend it!


THAI MASSAGE:
Thai massage is a well designed system of movements and massage techniques that allows the therapist to manipulate the client without much effort. Evdery movement is created to support the client as well as the therapist. The therapist uses special massage pressure points with specialized stretches to relax tired and stiff muscles and improve flexibility. Those receiving Thai massage report increased flexibility, and improved and increased energy combined with a relaxed body and mind. Those receiving Thai massage usually wear a loose fitted shirt and pants and the massage is done either on a massage table or large soft mat.

Pam's General Schedule:
- Sterling, VA Office: Mon, Weds, Thurs, Fri until 7PM; Sat until 3PM
- On-Location (i.e. your home): Tues and other weekdays at 8PM