Performance Plus Massage / Amber Rutherford, LMT

12/26/2024

Today and every day I am so very grateful for clients that allow me to be a part of their care throughout the year. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas!

12/12/2024

Honored to be in the top 3 for massage therapist. I love what I do and am blessed to have the best clients in town.

Visit these exceptional businesses and organizations to receive the best products and services!

11/28/2024

This Thanksgiving, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to you—my clients and friends—who trust me to be part of your wellness journey. Your stories, laughter, and openness inspire me every day. I am grateful for the opportunity to help you feel your best and for the connection that brings us together. You allow me to do what I love and call it work, for that I am so Thankful!

08/27/2024

The hardest thing to get people to understand, especially teenage athletes, is the importance of rest and recovery!

Discover the crucial role of rest and recovery in sports medicine and understand its impact on athletes' performance and well-being.

08/20/2024

Understanding Pain: It's Not Always Where You Think

As a massage therapist, I often encounter clients who come to me with pain localized in one area, only to discover that the root cause may lie elsewhere in the body. It's an important lesson I've learned over the years: pain is a complex, multifaceted experience, and it doesn't always correlate directly with the site of discomfort.

Referred Pain: A Common Phenomenon

One of the key concepts in understanding pain is "referred pain." This occurs when discomfort is perceived in one area of the body while the actual problem originates in another. For example, tension in the neck and shoulders can sometimes lead to headaches, or tightness in the hip flexors may manifest as knee pain. The body's interconnectedness means that a restriction or imbalance in one area can create a ripple effect throughout the entire system.

Muscle Compensation and Postural Alignment

Another factor to consider is muscle compensation. Our bodies are remarkable at adapting to pain or injury, often leading to overcompensation by surrounding muscles. For instance, if someone has a chronic issue in their lower back, they may unconsciously alter their posture or gait to avoid pain, which can create tension in the hips, legs, or even the upper back. This compensation can lead to a cascade of discomfort that seems unrelated to the original problem.

The Importance of Holistic Assessment

As a massage therapist, I emphasize the importance of a holistic assessment. When I evaluate a client's condition, I look beyond the pain itself. I consider their posture, movement patterns, and even lifestyle factors that may contribute to their discomfort. This comprehensive approach allows me to target not just the symptoms, but also the underlying issues contributing to the pain.

Creating a Path to Relief

Through techniques such as deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy, I aim to address both the localized pain and the broader patterns of tension that may be at play. By alleviating restrictions in the muscles and fascia, we can often provide relief not only in the area of discomfort but also throughout the body.

Empowerment Through Education

Ultimately, I believe in empowering my clients with knowledge. Understanding that pain may not always originate where it is felt can help them approach their healing journey with a broader perspective. It encourages them to listen to their bodies, seek holistic treatment options, and be proactive in their self-care.

In conclusion, pain is rarely straightforward. As we explore the intricate connections in our bodies, we can unlock new pathways to healing and wellness.

08/15/2024

One technique that has gained popularity in recent years is kinesiology taping. I have actually gotten to do several taping over the past few weeks. Whether you're an athlete, a weekend warrior, or simply looking to alleviate discomfort, understanding the benefits of kinesiology tape—and the importance of its correct application—can greatly enhance your recovery and performance. It’s easy to do a quick google search and find ideas to do on your own. However, it’s so important to make sure you’re picking the right one for you and your body. As a therapist that’s certified in Kineseology taping I am always available to help you decide what’s best for you.

~What is Kinesiology Taping?

Kinesiology taping involves the application of elastic therapeutic tape to support muscles and joints without restricting movement. It is designed to provide stability while allowing for full range of motion, making it a valuable tool for both rehabilitation and performance enhancement.

~Key Benefits of Kinesiology Taping

1. Pain Relief: Kinesiology tape can help alleviate pain by reducing pressure on pain receptors and improving circulation to the affected area. This can lead to a significant decrease in discomfort during daily activities or workouts.

2. Support and Stability: The tape provides gentle support to muscles and joints, helping to prevent injuries while allowing for natural movement. This is especially beneficial for athletes looking to maintain peak performance.

3. Enhanced Recovery: By improving blood flow and lymphatic drainage, kinesiology tape can speed up recovery from injuries, strains, and soreness. This means you can get back to your favorite activities sooner.

4. Improved Proprioception: Kinesiology tape enhances body awareness by stimulating sensory receptors in the skin. This can help you maintain better posture and alignment during movement, reducing the risk of further injury.

5. Versatile Application: Kinesiology tape can be used on a variety of conditions, from sports injuries to chronic pain. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to your treatment plan.

~The Importance of Correct Application

While kinesiology taping offers numerous benefits, the effectiveness of the tape largely depends on how well it is applied. Here’s why correct application matters:

- Optimal Results: Properly applied tape can maximize its benefits, including pain relief and support. Incorrect application may lead to discomfort or minimal effects.

- Avoiding Complications: Misapplication can cause skin irritation or restrict blood flow, potentially worsening the condition. It's essential to ensure the tape is applied correctly to prevent any adverse effects.

- Personalized Approach: Each individual is different, and the application technique may vary based on your specific needs. A skilled therapist will tailor the taping method to your unique

08/01/2024

I have clients tell me all the time they have stretched so much they do not understand how they are still having issues.

Sometimes, when we experience pain in our bodies, we may automatically assume that it is due to tight muscles that need to be stretched or massaged. However, in many cases, the root cause of the pain may actually be weak or imbalanced muscles.

Weak or imbalanced muscles can lead to poor posture, joint instability, and compensatory movement patterns that put strain on other muscles and joints. This can result in chronic pain and discomfort that can be difficult to alleviate without addressing the underlying muscle weaknesses. Massage can still help, but it can’t correct this problem.

A knowledgeable personal trainer can help identify these weaknesses and imbalances helping to alleviate pain and prevent future injuries.

By working with a personal trainer who understands the musculoskeletal system, you can address the root cause of your pain and improve your overall physical health and well-being. Additionally, a personal trainer can provide guidance on proper form and technique to ensure that you are performing exercises correctly and safely.

I often recommend my clients get at the minimum a consultation with a personal trainer to help them correct these issues. I am fortunate to work along side some of the best in the area. Gametime sports has amazing trainers ready to assist you in figuring out what may be the root cause of the pain and imbalance. Combining that with massage will help you live a more pain free life with better movement and quality of life.

07/30/2024

I get these questions every Olympics. What are those dark rings? Do you offer that? The answer is cupping, and YES. Want to know more? Feel free to reach out and we can discuss it. 931-446-9238
Performanceplusmassage@gmail.com

A number of competitors at the Olympics can be seen with mysterious brown circles all over their bodies. But what are they, and what's their point?

03/19/2024

Elevate your massage experience with a personalized approach to address your specific health concerns!

At Performance Plus Massage I offer a range of specialized techniques, including sports massage, deep tissue massage, cupping therapy, assisted stretching, and more to help you achieve your wellness goals and target your individual health needs.

🏋️‍♂️ Sports Massage: Whether you're an athlete looking to enhance performance, prevent injuries, or recover from intense training sessions, sports massage therapy can help improve flexibility, reduce muscle soreness, and promote faster recovery.

💪 Deep Tissue Massage: For those dealing with chronic pain, muscle tension, or limited range of motion, deep tissue massage technique targets deeper layers of muscle tissue to release tension, alleviate pain, and improve mobility.

🌀 Cupping Therapy: Experience the ancient healing practice of cupping therapy, which uses suction cups to promote blood flow, reduce inflammation, and release toxins from the body, helping to relieve pain and tension.

🤸‍♂️ Assisted Stretching: Combine the benefits of massage with assisted stretching to improve flexibility, enhance range of motion, and prevent injuries. During these sessions I will gently stretch your muscles to help you feel more relaxed, rejuvenated, and balanced.

Don't settle for an ordinary massage when you can experience a customized approach that addresses your specific health concerns and targets your individual needs. Book your session today and let me help you feel your best inside and out!

Book today!

Performanceplusmassage.com

02/26/2024

Are you an athlete looking to enhance your performance and prevent injuries? Or maybe you're just looking to relax and unwind after a long week of work? Whatever your reason may be, sports massage could be the perfect solution for you!

Sports massage is not only beneficial for athletes but for anyone looking to improve their overall well-being. Here are some of the benefits of sports massage:

1. Improved circulation: Sports massage helps to increase blood flow to the muscles, which can help reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery time.

2. Decreased muscle tension: Sports massage can help to release tension in tight muscles, making them more flexible and less prone to injury.

3. Enhanced flexibility: By releasing tension in the muscles, sports massage can help to improve flexibility and range of motion, allowing you to move more freely and efficiently.

4. Stress relief: Sports massage can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

5. Injury prevention: Regular sports massage can help to prevent injuries by keeping the muscles in good condition and addressing any imbalances or weaknesses that may lead to injury.

So whether you're an athlete looking to enhance your performance or just someone looking to relax and unwind, sports massage can benefit you in more ways than one. Schedule your appointment today and experience the many benefits of sports massage for yourself!

12/17/2023

A quick reminder that I will not be in the office the week after Christmas. If you need to get in before the New Year please make sure you book your appointment now. I have a few open spots for next week remaining. Text 931-446-9238 for quicker response or go to performanceplusmassage.com to request an appointment.

11/24/2023

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the good things in life. For me, that means thanking all of my clients. I am so blessed to be able to do what I love and in return help so many wonderful people. I am thankful for each of you that put your trust in me. Praying you all have had an amazing day with family, friends and loved ones.