Prenatal Massage

Pregnancy is a time of major structural, physiological, psychological, spiritual, and social changes. Some of these changes produce discomforts and concerns, which can be addressed with appropriate massage therapy and body guidance. Pregnancy massage therapy focuses on the special needs of the mother-to-be. Pregnancy massage therapy is beneficial throughout the nine months of a low-risk pregnancy. If you are not having a low-risk pregnancy, discuss your condition with your physician or midwife.

Perinatal Massage

The postpartum recovery period, considered to be six weeks after birth, is a physically and emotionally demanding period of adjustment. Postpartum massage focuses on helping to restore the woman's body to its pre-pregnancy condition. Massage therapy plays an important part in the restoration of the abdominal muscle wall and the uterus to its normal state. It helps to realign the body weight to its original distribution, and tones the over-stretched areas of skin over the belly. As with all massages, it relieves muscle tension and stress from everyday activities, especially new mothering duties. It not only helps restore the physical body to the new mom, but also helps to revive her emotional state. The loving touch of hands can provide a time to relax and reflect for the new mother, and helps to get her through the postpartum blues. When the mother feels good about herself, it is easier to meet the needs of her newborn.

Our massage therapists

Jennifer Robertson P.T.A., C.M.T ~ Jenn has been employed as a Physical Therapy Assistant at O'Neill Physical Therapy Services since 1995. Desiring to expand her skills and to promote health and wellness on a one on one basis, she returned to school to attain her certification in massage therapy. She specializes in Client Relaxation, Deep Tissue, and Myofascial release with concentration on trigger points if needed.

Brenda DeSutter P.T, C.M.T ~ Brenda is a Physical Therapist who is also a certified massage therapist. In 2003 Brenda moved to Hagerstown from Illinois and started working at O'Neill Physical Therapy Services where she is pursuing both areas of interest. Areas of specialty include Relaxation/ Swedish Massage, Trigger Point Therapy, Myofascial Release, and Deep Tissue.

Sylvia Mann R.N., C.M.T ~ Sylvia retired from the Washington County Health Department as a Registered Nurse to pursue her massage therapy certification. She received her license in 1998 and has been practicing massage therapy at O'Neill Physical Therapy Services since 1999. She specializes in Deep Tissue, Myofascial, Swedish, and Pregnancy Massage.