Norwich Massage Therapy

02/07/2025

What is Trigger Point Therapy—and Why Can It Take Time to Work?

You might have heard me mention trigger point therapy during a treatment. But what exactly is it?

Trigger point therapy is a targeted technique that focuses on releasing tight, irritable “knots” in muscle tissue—known as trigger points. These points can refer pain to other areas of the body, meaning the pain you feel in your calf, for example, might actually be coming from a trigger point in your glutes.

This approach was first developed in the 1940s by Dr. Janet Travell (who later became physician to President Kennedy), and her work helped shape how we understand and treat myofascial pain today.

Trigger point therapy works by applying sustained pressure to these knots to encourage the muscle fibres to relax. This helps improve blood flow, reduce pain, restore movement, and break the chronic pain cycle.

🔸 So why does it take time?
Trigger points often develop over weeks, months, or even years. They can be caused by posture, stress, injury, overuse, or repetitive strain. Because of this, releasing them isn’t always instant. Some points let go quickly, while others need repeated treatments as we gradually unwind long-held tension and help retrain your nervous system.

Patience is key—and so is consistency. Think of it as helping your muscles unlearn old habits and form healthier ones.

If you’re dealing with stubborn aches or tension that doesn’t seem to budge, trigger point work might be the missing piece.

20/06/2025

✨ Exciting News! ✨

Last week, I completed the Foundation in Advanced Clinical Massage at the renowned Jing Institute in Brighton. It was a fantastic opportunity to refresh my existing skills and dive into some powerful new techniques.

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve now enrolled in Jing’s year-long Advanced Clinical Massage Therapist (ACMT) course. This intensive training will deepen my expertise in treating chronic pain and cover techniques for addressing over 80 different pathologies.

By the end of the course, I’ll be one of only a handful of therapists in this region qualified in the Jing Method—a gold standard in clinical massage therapy.

I’m so excited to bring this knowledge to my clients and continue offering the best, most effective treatments possible. Watch this space for updates on my journey! 🙌

27/05/2025

💡 Why does one pain fade… and another pop up?

Your brain is wired for survival, not comfort. It pays attention to the biggest threat first—like a bodyguard dealing with the loudest noise.

When one pain quiets down (after a massage, rest, or treatment), your brain finally has capacity to tune into the next layer.

It’s not “new pain”—it’s uncovered pain. And it’s a normal part of the healing process.

🎯 Be kind to your body. It’s doing its best to keep you safe.

21/05/2025

🌱 What Is the Biopsychosocial Model of Chronic Pain? 🌱

Chronic pain is complex. It’s not just about damaged tissue or what shows up on a scan. That’s why modern science now understands pain through what’s called the biopsychosocial model.

This model looks at pain as the result of three interwoven factors:

🧬 Biological – This includes things like injury, inflammation, nerve sensitivity, or long-term health conditions. But it’s just one piece of the puzzle.

🧠 Psychological – Our thoughts, beliefs, emotions, stress levels, and past experiences all influence how pain is processed in the brain. For example, fear of movement or feeling hopeless can increase pain, while understanding and support can help calm it.

👥 Social – Our environment, support systems, work life, and even cultural beliefs about pain can affect how we experience it. Feeling isolated or misunderstood can heighten pain responses. Connection and compassion can help ease them.

👉 This doesn’t mean pain is “all in your head.” It means pain is real, and it’s influenced by your whole life — not just your body.

Understanding this model can open the door to a more compassionate, holistic approach to healing — one that includes not just treatment, but also education, emotional support, and lifestyle changes.

16/05/2025

Ever feel like you’re stuck in “fight or flight” mode?
That jittery, tense, wired-but-tired feeling? Your nervous system might need a reset—and that’s where your vagus nerve comes in.

The vagus nerve is a key part of your parasympathetic nervous system. It helps slow your heart rate, calm your breathing, and shift your body into a relaxed state—what we call “rest and digest.”

Here’s the magic:
Massage, especially slow and focused deep tissue work, stimulates the vagus nerve—helping your body move out of stress mode and into calm.
You might notice:
• A deep sigh or yawn
• Your belly gurgling (a good sign!)
• A sense of heaviness or deep relaxation

That’s your nervous system saying, “Thank you.”

In a world that constantly keeps us on high alert, massage isn’t just a luxury—it’s a powerful tool to support your mental and physical health.

If your body’s asking for rest, I’m here when you’re ready.

14/05/2025

This! 🥱

07/05/2025

I wanted to share a resource I’ve found really valuable. MoveU creates engaging videos that offer helpful stretches, exercises, and insights into managing chronic pain. They’ve also developed programs for a wide range of chronic pain conditions. I often learn something new from their content! Just a heads-up—their style is a bit bold and energetic (with the occasional bit of strong language), but their information is solid and useful.

Fix yo s**t & live pain-free with movement, alignment & recovery. Our app has programs for disc herniation, hip/shoulder impingement, labral tears & more. Free trial at MoveU.com—join our community!

06/05/2025

Just had time for a 20 min walk before I started my work day today. I’m lucky enough to live opposite the beautiful Mousehold Heath so I can enjoy nature too.

Regular movement keeps insulin levels steady, supports your metabolism, and reduces cravings.

Walking releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting and stress-reducing effects.

Walking also boosts circulation and oxygen flow, which can lead to increased energy levels and alertness.

It doesn’t have to be an hour, even 10 minutes can make a difference. Where could you fit 10 minutes or more of movement into your day?

30/04/2025

Massage Myth Busting!

“Drinking Water After a Massage ‘Flushes Toxins’”

🚰 MYTH: “Drink water after a massage to flush out toxins!”
🧪 TRUTH: Your body already filters toxins—massage doesn’t “release” them!

The liver and kidneys do all the detoxing your body needs. But drinking water does help keep you hydrated, support circulation, and prevent soreness after a massage.

So, yes—stay hydrated after your session. Just know that “flushing toxins” isn’t the reason!

21/04/2025

“Sarah is far and away the most effective therapist I’ve encountered after years of various physical problems. I am so grateful to be able to go to her and I am now more free of pain than I had been for over forty years. And she makes it interesting and easy as well.
A woman of rare skill and understanding. “

Frances.