This injury started about six months ago in a strength and conditioning (Bodypump) class. During the offending session, a series of seemingly innocent factors created the perfect storm for potential trauma.
Let's set the scene...
Although I am someone who has traditionally had a "push through" mentality when it comes to musculoskeletal injuries (hiking the Manitou Incline with a sprained ankle on multiple occasions.) I am trying to do better about listening to my body. Although I am "only 26" I am becoming acutely aware that my body doesn't quite "bounce back" like it used to.
In an effort to "self-correct", I have attacked this injury from many modalities; consulting a shoulder surgeon, doing extensive physical therapy, performing self-massage, using heat/ice therapy, applying (and reapplying) menthol and camphor oil, taking minimal amounts of ibuprofen (I DO NOT believe in taking medication unless absolutely necessary,) stretching, practicing yoga, and implementing new sleeping positions.
***I am going to pause for a moment to say that my husband has been very supportive throughout this process: swapping our mountain biking adventures for hiking dates, and being my "go to" with any jar or can that comes in my direction. He has been a key player in helping me stay positive while injured. But let me tell you--the "new sleeping position" has been a tough technique for both of is to adjust to. He is NOT a huge fan of the pillow-to-person ratio that has recently been implemented in our home. This method involves about eighteen pillows (a.k.a. three) to make a "cocoon" in an effort to ensure that I do not unintentionally roll onto my "angry" shoulder in the middle of the night. This adjustment has been particularly challenging since sleeping on the offending side has been "home base" for as long as I can remember.
In an attempt to take my recovery to the next level, (and hopefully move towards a reduction in our bedroom pillow count) last week I tried a new approach, and treated myself to a holistic massage.
I have always been someone who believes in the power of touch, but I am also someone who can be a wee bit frugal--easily casting off the idea of paying someone to provide a service that is sometimes touted as a "luxurious" or "frivolous" extravagance for the rich and famous.
However, I am here to say that I am now a full-fledged believer in the benefits of massage for the spirit, mind, and body. Here is a list from the AMTA showing a whole slew of benefits that can be achieved from therapeutic massage
Physical Benefits of Holistic Massage
|
Mental Benefits of Holistic Massage
|
Last week I had the pleasure of being recommended to an outstanding massage therapist, Siva at the Energie Center in Denver. She provided the most welcoming, open, safe, warm environment that I have ever encountered in regards to a massage. She approaches you without reservation, truly listening to "why" you scheduled a massage, and not diminishing or discounting any factors that brought you in for treatment.
You instantaneously feel a rush of calm envelop your body as you walk into their tranquil office featuring Buddhist, Hindu, and Eastern Decor. Tibetan prayer flags rustle in the entryway spreading good will, compassion, wisdom, and strength. Soothing music whispers the sweet sounds of nature and instrumental compilations throughout the studio.
After sitting down (sans shoes) and preforming a thorough consultation, Siva discussed our focuses for the day. She highlighted how additional therapies could compliment the work that she was about to preform, encouraging the fusion of Eastern and Western treatment modalities.
This experience was indisputably the best massage that I have ever had. It is precisely what my shoulder needed; what I needed. She was able to locate inflamed trigger points in my body that I didn't even realize were an issue. Siva provided nourishment for my mind, body, and soul.
So let's take care of ourselves, take care of one another, and live in the moment.
Namaste,
Christy