Hi, I’m Cathy Burdsall, LMT.
I have been a Licensed Medical Massage Therapist in the state of Ohio since 1995.
Through years of training and research in massage and physical therapy, I have built a fairly large arsenal of therapeutic techniques to help relieve pain and discomfort from recent injury or chronic pain. These techniques include trigger point therapy, muscle stripping techniques, facilitated stretching, MET (muscle energy technique), myofascial release, and others. All techniques are applied to the pain tolerance level of each client.
Some chronic pain can be due to mental stress as well. Stressful situations have an effect on our bodies as well as our minds. In this case, along with muscle therapy, I employ several energy techniques and craniosacral therapy to help disconnect the stress pattern that has made itself at home in your body and on your mind.
Another therapy that is extremely relaxing and has several therapeutic components is “Raindrop Therapy”.
This therapy was developed by Young Living brand founder D. Gary Young to help with chronic viral, bacterial and microbial issues. Which makes it great for getting a leg up on the cold and flu season.
During most relaxation and Therapeutic Medical massages, I use heated himalayan salt stones to help relieve soreness and tightness.
techniques and modalities I use
Below are some techniques and modalities I use as needed. I choose the technique that best suits what I find when I work on you. As I give your massage we can discuss what you feel is best meeting your needs.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial release is a modality that works on releasing the muscle and its fibers from surrounding fascia which can cause restrictions in movement and often pain.
Muscle Stripping
This modality tends to be more intense than Myofascial Release because it is a more targeted therapy. I use this technique when absolutely necessary, and again only to the client’s pain tolerance.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger point therapy is a modality that accesses those “tender spots” for release and relief. Trigger point therapy doesn’t have to be extremely painful, pressure to the point of just uncomfortable is pressure enough. Just a good hurt.
Soft Tissue Stretching
My research has shown that a level of stretch after muscle therapy helps muscles return to functioning length. The stretch also feels really good!
Craniosacral Therapy
Addresses the bones and soft tissue of the head, spinal column and sacrum that offers effective relief for headaches, TMJD, back and neck pain.
Percussion Tool (Thumper or Massager)
Percussion therapy is most effective on muscles that have had strenuous activity. Like after a workout or strenuous sports. It increases blood flow to the site and can loosen tight or spasmed muscles.
Hot Himalayan salt stones
Himalayan salt stones have been known to detoxify, help reduce insomnia, improve blood pressure and relieve stress. Besides, hot stones feel really good on sore muscles.
My certifications & Training
TMD assessment and treatment
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction is a common problem in modern America. There are several causes and the symptoms are varied and can be extremely uncomfortable.
This certification has given me the ability to assess and treat TMJ pain and problems.
Iliosacral and sacroiliac joint dysfunctions -Certification
Hip pain and problems can be both muscular and joint issues. This certification has given me the tools to assess and treat both joint and soft tissue problems of the hips and back.
Thomas Meyers Anatomy Trains
Thomas Meyers and associates have proven that our bodies are connected along soft tissue lines that extend the full length of our bodies. My training and research has given me the ability to be more effective in treating soft tissue injuries and chronic pain by following those lines to detect the hidden center of the problem.
Upledger Craniosacral Therapy
Certification in CST I & II, plus years of research and practice has given me a firm foundation in the benefits of this therapy. Subtle yet profound.
Trigger point therapy CEU’s and research
Trigger point therapy is a modality that accesses those “tender spots” for release and relief. Trigger point therapy doesn’t have to be extremely painful, pressure to the point of just uncomfortable is pressure enough. Just a good hurt.
Myofascial release CEU’s and research
Myofascial release is a modality that works on releasing the muscle and its fibers from surrounding fascia which can cause restrictions in movement and often pain. There are different levels of fascial intrusion which in turn can cause levels of restrictions and pain. Successful Myofascial Release can give a profound freedom of movement.
Facilitated Stretch techniques
My research has shown that a level of stretch after muscle therapy helps muscles return to functioning length. The stretch also feels really good.
Muscle Stripping is a form of myofascial release
This modality tends to be more intense than Myofascial Release because it is a more targeted therapy. I use this technique when absolutely necessary, and again only to the client’s pain tolerance.