Massage Therapy

What is Massage Therapy?

Massage is the manipulation of superficial and deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to enhance function, aid in the healing process, and promote relaxation and well-being. Therapeutic massage includes an assortment of manual techniques, which the skilled massage therapist applies to adjust and regulate soft tissues and Qi (pronounced "chee") circulation in the body.

Massage doesn't only promote general physical and emotional well-being, but is used as a major treatment for stress/tension disorders, joint and tendon disease, musculoskeletal conditions, and internal disorders. Inter-referrals between acupuncturists and massage therapists ensure optimal patient care and are utilized frequently at our clinic.

Massage Therapy Modalities

Massage Therapy at Pacific Center of Health in San Diego

Swedish Massage

In Swedish Massage, the practitioner applies oil or lotion to intensify a variety of lengthy strokes that help direct blood and lymph toward the heart. This flowing motion not only allows for soft tissue manipulation, circulation, and fluid flow, but feeds the blood oxygen through cells and helps rid metabolic waste from the entire body. The overall experience is relaxing and the pressure much lighter than deep tissue massage.

Practitioners: Deborah Baltazar-Moore | Jerell Ordonio | Kasumi Frisch |

Bonnie Love | Joshua Ramay | Julianna Onstad | Cheyenne King

Deep Tissue Massage

This technique helps to release tight muscle tension, feed blood oxygen through the cells, and rid metabolic waste from the entire body in addition to allowing for soft tissue manipulation and circulation. The practitioner works with short and longer compressions, sometimes followed by flowing extended strokes and may use thumb, palm and elbow compressions to release major muscles.

Table Thai Massage

Table Thai Massage uses a series of rocking rhythms and stretches to alleviate muscle tension. The practitioner concentrates on specific muscles, palpating and compressing with hands, forearms, feet, or knees to ensure complete focus on each muscle group. The practitioner often sits on the table with the client to achieve specific techniques. The client may be sitting, lying flat, or side-lying on the table.

Practitioners: Jerell Ordonio | Kasumi Frisch | Deborah Baltazar-Moore

Floor Thai Massage

Unlike traditional massage where you lie on a massage table, Floor Thai is done on the floor. Special Thai mats are used, covered with a sheet, and the client is clothed in loose, comfortable clothing. This technique involves stretching, rocking and pulling motions, very much like “assisted yoga.” It is effective to relieve tension, improve circulation and flexibility, and is very relaxing.

Practitioners: Jerell Ordonio | Kasumi Frisch

Prenatal Massage

This therapeutic bodywork focuses on the unique needs of the client as their body goes through the dramatic changes of pregnancy. It enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue. This gentle, non-invasive approach can ease discomfort associated with pregnancy, help the client prepare for labor, and provide nurturing emotional support.

Practitioners: Kasumi Frisch | Bonnie Love | Samara Gregorio | Cheyenne King

Integrated Therapy

Integrated therapy is a more extended version of massage therapy incorporating whole body evaluation to target the origin of the patient's issue(s) and systems involved. It includes stretching exercises and expanded manual therapy modalities.

Practitioner: Samara Gregorio