Make Appointment
CLICK HERE

OFFICE OF: DR. JACK F. SARRO D.C.
BACK & NECK PAIN RELIEF CARE

Deep Tissue Massage

Written June 2nd, 2013 by
Categories: Massage Therapy
Comments Off on Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue Massage Tips

Thinking of getting a massage? Deep Tissue massage focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue or fascia. It is commonly used for people with chronically tight muscles, athletes and injury work. The movements are slow and given with deep pressure.  They and concentrated on areas of tension and pain.

How Does Deep Tissue Massage Work?

Areas of the body that have tension or have sustained injury have areas of adhesions (tight, rigid, and painful tissue).  These adhesions can occur in muscles, tendons and ligaments in the body. These adhesions are usually painful, inflamed, and have limited range of motion.  A deep tissue massage works by physically breaking down these adhesions.  In doing this, circulation is improved to the area, motion improves and pain is relieved.

Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

deep-tissue-massage-treats-chronic-pain

Deep Tissue Massage treats Chronic Pain

Deep tissue massage generally focuses on a specific area or problem such as:

  • Chronic Pain
  • Injury
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Postural Problems
  • Decreased Motion
  • Muscle Spasm or Tension

 What Should I Expect During and After the Massage?

A variety of techniques are used during a deep tissue massage.  This may include using fingertips, elbows, and forearms to administer the massage.  You may be slightly sore after intense deep tissue work.  It is important to be well hydrated when going for your deep tissue massage and to drink extra water for the first 24 hours after the massage.  This will help to flush any toxins from they body that are released during the session.  You may also use ice as directed to decrease any post massage soreness. Click here to learn more about types of massage therapy.

Specialty Education

As a Registered Nurse I have advanced education about the human body and how it works. Coupled with my experience as a massage therapist, I am able to offer my clients tailored massage treatments.  I really enjoy deep tissue work and helping my clients reduce their pain, improve motion and feel better.  If you have any questions or would like to schedule a deep tissue massage, I can be reached at 781-829-9300.

Your in Health,

Suzanne Sarro

Piriformis Syndrome Signs

Written June 2nd, 2013 by
Categories: Back Pain Relief
Comments Off on Piriformis Syndrome Signs

piriformis-syndrome-sciatic-is-pinched

Piriformis Syndrome Sciatic is Pinched

You may have had sciatica, which is pain in the nerve down the back of your leg. There can be many causes of your pain. Most people are aware that disc injuries cause leg pain. Most people are unaware that Piriformis Syndrome can cause your pain? This is when a muscle in your buttock pinches your sciatic nerve.

Priformis Syndrome Symptoms

If you have this condition, you may have pain, numbness, and tingling in your buttock. The pain may be intense and it may travel down the back of your leg. Priformis symptoms may be triggered when you sit, drive, or ride a bicycle. Pushing in on your buttock may also cause the pain to get worse.

Piriformis Syndrome is a Pinched Nerve

The Piriformis is a muscle that runs from your tailbone to your outer hip joint. This muscle helps to rotate your hip and leg outward away from your body. Sometimes this muscle can pinch and irritate your sciatic nerve. There can be several reasons why this has happened to you.

Piriformis Syndrome Hidden Causes

Your condition may be caused by the following:

  • Tight muscles
  • Inflammation in your muscles
  • Scar tissue from old injuries
  • Trigger points from overuse or strain
  • Excessive sitting
  • Lack of flexibility
  • Pelvic and hip rotation
  • Lower back misalignment

Priformis Syndrome Treatment

Many treatments can be successful for your Piriformis Syndrome. Your best results will be achieved if the cause of your pain is addressed properly. You may need the following treatments.

  • Massage therapy
  • Deep tissue work
  • Myofascial release therapy
  • Trigger point therapy
  • Ice therapy
  • Hot stone therapy
  • Piriformis stretches Click Here to see a Piriformis Stretch
  • Pelvic and tailbone alignments
  • Lower back alignments
  • Chiropractic treatment
  • Nutrition support for inflammation

If you would like help in resolving Piriformis Syndrome, or other types of pain and injuries please call my office at 781-829-9300 to schedule an appointment with myself of Suzanne for treatment. We utilize all of the above listed treatments and therapies in our Hanover, South Shore Chiropractic and Massage Therapy office.

Best Regards,

Dr. Sarro

Carpal Tunnel Signs

Written May 27th, 2013 by
Categories: Back Pain Relief
Comments Off on Carpal Tunnel Signs

Do you wake up in the morning with numbness and tingling in your hands? Do you experience hand and wrist pain and weakness after writing or using hand tools? If you have these complaints, you may be suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is when your Median Nerve gets pinched as it passes through the small bones and ligaments of your wrist and hand.

Carpal Tunnel Symptoms

carpal-tunnel-syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Compresses The Median Nerve

You may experience the following symptoms:

  • Pain in your hands and wrists
  • Numbness and tingling in your hands
  • Weakness in your hands and grip
  • Pain and tightness in your forearms

Carpal Tunnel Causes

Inflammation, irritation, misalignment, and tightness within your hands and wrists can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Doing the same things with your hands all day could be causing your pain. It usually develops over a period of time, and typically gets worse if the condition is not addressed. There can be other medical underlying causes to carpal tunnel syndrome such as arthritis or hormone problems.

Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Many people have carpal tunnel surgery in which ligaments in their wrists and hands are cut to release pressure on the Median Nerve. I do not recommend this surgery as it does not address the root causes of why your pain occurred. Also, you may develop scar tissue after this surgery which could lead to future pain and problems.

Carpal Tunnel Hidden Causes

I see many patients who’s carpal tunnel symptoms are actually caused by nerve problems and inflammation in their neck, back, shoulders and forearms. These issues need to be corrected in order to solve their pain.

Carpal Tunnel Treatment

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be effectively treated without medications and surgery by using the following therapies:

  • Stretch your hands and wrists, Click here to see Carpal Tunnel Stretches and Exercises
  • Apply ice to your wrists
  • Modify your work or aggravating activities
  • Chiropractic alignments to your hands, wrists, elbow, shoulder, back, and neck
  • Soft tissue treatment to your forearms, hands, and wrists
  • Trigger point release therapy
  • Myofascial release therapy
  • Natural inflammation control and correction

If you would like relief and help resolving your pain and condition please call my office at 781-829-9300 to schedule an appointment for an examination and diagnosis for what is causing your pain.

Best Regards,

Dr. Sarro

Stress Relief Solutions

Written May 27th, 2013 by
Categories: Health Tips
Comments Off on Stress Relief Solutions

Signs of Stress

Stress is a normal part of life. It effects how our body feels physically and emotionally. Some symptoms may include a faster heart rate, headache, tight neck, shoulders and sore back. Unfortunately we can’t completely avoid stress, so we must improve how we respond to stressful situations in life. Receiving a therapeutic massage is  easy and enjoyable, and one of many stress relief solutions.

Common Complaints

stress-relief -solutions-for-headaches

Stress can cause Tension Headaches

Stress can come from physical and emotional strain.  Stress creates muscle tension in the body which can cause us to hold certain postures which create strain and tightening of the muscles.  Over time these chronically contracted (or tight) muscles start to cause pain and feel like a “knot” in the muscle fibers. I regularly see clients in my practice with complaints of tight muscles, headaches, and tension and are looking to relax and find stress relief.

Massage and Stress Relief

In my massage sessions, I address what the clients physical complaints are.  In a 60 minute massage, I often spend 25-30 minutes on the back, shoulders and neck alone working on releasing tight muscles and knots.  I also use trigger point therapy and hot stone therapy to provide even deeper and more comfortable muscle tension relief. In addition, deep tissue work is a regular part of my sessions.  This means I spend focused time on the muscle attachment points found on the bones of the spine, shoulders, sacrum, and other bones.  Many clients also hold a lot of tension in the hip joints and gluteal muscles.  By releasing the tension, my clients find that they have more motion and less pain.

Stress Relief

Since stress is part of our life, it is important to find stress relief. Proper diet, regular exercise, therapeutic massage, and chiropractic care are all ways to help the body deal with stress.  By reducing stress, we improve our immune system function, mood, outlook on life, and our health. Click here to learn more about additional stress effects and stress management ideas.

If you have any questions, or would like to schedule a stress reduction massage for yourself or loved one, I can be reached at 781-829-9300.

Yours in Health,

Suzanne Sarro RN BSN LMT

Hot Stone Massage Benefits

Written May 19th, 2013 by
Categories: Massage Therapy
Comments Off on Hot Stone Massage Benefits

hot-stone-massage-for-pain-relief

Hot Stone Massage for Pain Relief

Hot stone massage is a form of massage therapy which adds heated stones into a Swedish massage.  Only around since the 1990’s in North America, hot stone therapy is certainly not a new practice.  The use of hot stones has been documented with the Ancient Egyptians and Native Americans. It is also used as a natural healing medicine in India.  There are many hot stone massage benefits including: deep muscle relief, improved relaxation, pain reduction, improved circulation and ridding the body of toxins.

Hot Stone Massage Technique

The type of stones that are most commonly used in hot stone massage are basalt stones.  These stones are dark gray and have rounded smooth edges.  The stones are heated to around 130 degrees F. The stones are then held in the therapeutics hands and glided across the muscles and tissues on the back, neck, legs and arms.  The heat of the stones coupled with the pressure from the therapists hands penetrates deep into the muscle fibers achieving a soothing and therapeutic experience.  When hot stones are used with specific techniques, the therapist is better able to more comfortably release tight muscles with less effort.

Hot Stone Massage Benefits

Using hot stones as a tool in the massage session, allows the therapist to work on deeper muscle restrictions.  In addition to the immediate effects of receiving a hot stone massage, many benefits continue after receiving the massage. There has been more research confirming hot stone massage benefits on different body systems.  Other body systems that receive positive changes include the cardiovascular, lymphatic, skin, endocrine, muscles, joints, nerves and digestive systems.

Where to Receive a Hot Stone Massage

I am a certified Hot Stone Massage Therapist.   I incorporate hot stones into all of my 60 and 90 minute massage sessions as a complimentary upgrade.  I do this because I want my clients to experience all of the health and healing benefits of hot stone massage.  If you have any questions about hot stone massage or would like to schedule your hot stone massage, I can be reached at 781-829-9300.  Gift Certificates are also available for your convenience.

Yours in Health,

Suzanne Sarro RN BSN LMT

Fibromyalgia Pain Signs

Written May 19th, 2013 by
Categories: Back Pain Relief
Comments Off on Fibromyalgia Pain Signs

Many of you may already know that Fibromyalgia pain appears to be on the rise among both men and women. I see more and more patients seeking relief of this condition each year in our Hanover office. Signs typically include widespread aches, soreness, and tender points in your muscles. Many people who have these symptoms are unsure about how to get relief.

Fibromyalgia Diagnosis

In order for you to be diagnosed with Fibromyalgia pain, you must have pain in at least 11 out of 18 specific areas on your body. Those areas include pressure points in your neck, chest, elbows, knees, buttocks and back. You must have this widespread pain for at least three months. In addition other medical causes of your pain needs to be ruled out. There is no specific blood test to diagnose your Fibromyalgia.

Click here to see the Specific Fibromyalgia Tender Points.fibromyalgia-pain-relief

Fibromyalgia Other Symptoms

If you have Fibromyalgia pain you may have additional symptoms other than pain that may include:

  • Sleeping Problems
  • Being Fatigued and Tired
  • Anxiety and Depression
  • IBS and Stomach Upset
  • Headaches
  • TMJ Pain

Fibromyalgia Relief

I see many patients with fibromyalgia pain that are not getting adequate relief through medications alone. Many patients are looking for natural ways to help alleviate their pain and discomfort. The good news is that there are ways for you to get relief and begin enjoying your activities and hobbies again.

Fibromyalgia Treatments

We have used the following treatments in our office for reducing fibromyalgia pain gently and properly.

fibromyalgia-pain-relief

  • Regular exercise has been shown to reduce pain
  • Ice packs applied for 20 mins to painful areas
  • Trigger Point Therapy to tender points
  • Myofascial Release Technique
  • Relaxation, Yoga, and gentle stretching
  • Anti-inflammatory supplements such as Fish Oil and Vitamin D3
  • Massage Therapy
  • Avoiding food allergies
  • Gentle Chiropractic alignments

Fibromyalgia Pain Call for Help

fibromyalgia-pain-relief
If you would like help in developing a plan to reduce your pain and condition, please call my office to schedule an appointment for an evaluation, treatment, and relief care at 781-829-9300.

Best Regards,

Dr. Jack Sarro

Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage

Written May 12th, 2013 by
Categories: Massage Therapy
Comments Off on Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage

Not all Massages are Equal

I meet people all the time whom are confused about what “type” of massage to get.  Many have heard of Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue Massage.  They may think they want a Swedish Massage, but really want a Deep Tissue Massage. Learn the difference between these two types of massage and let your therapist know what “type” of massage you want next time!

Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage Differences

massage-therapy-relaxes-your-nerve-system

Massage Therapy Relaxes Your Nerve System

Swedish Massage

  • Very gentle strokes
  • Long gliding strokes
  • Promotes relaxation, improves blood flow and relieves muscular tension
  • Promotes blood flow in the direction of the heart
  • May include gentle range of motion of joints

Deep Tissue Massage

  • Detailed and focused to “trouble spots” in the body
  • Slow strokes
  • Focuses on muscle layers, tendons and ligaments deep under the skin
  • Use of forearms, thumbs and elbows
  • Less rhythmic
  • Relieves chronic patterns of tension
  • Injury work

Many times, both massage techniques are used together in the massage session   As a massage therapist, I always ask the client what they want to “focus on” or “get out” of their session.  For some it is relaxation, others have chronic tight muscles that they want worked out.  And, for many, it is a combination of a Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage. Every massage I give is tailored to what the client wants.  This may include any combination of relaxing Swedish Massage, along with some firmer pressure and deep tissue work.

Read more here about the difference between Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage.

If you have any questions about Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage, I would be happy to answer them.  Massage Hours are Monday- Thursday mornings, as well as Thursday evenings.

Yours in Health,

Suzanne Sarro RN BSN LMT

Migraine Headache Symptoms

Written May 12th, 2013 by
Categories: Back Pain Relief
Comments Off on Migraine Headache Symptoms

The most common major symptoms that you have a migraine headache are:

migraine-headaches-involve-the-brain

Migraine Headaches Involve the Brain

  • Throbbing pain on the side of your head
  • Pain that stops you from your routine and activities
  • Pain behind your eye
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Pain that gets worse with bright light or noises
  • Numbness or tingling in your arms, hands, or face
  • Vsion problems such as seeing spots or flashing lights

Migraine Headache Signs

A day or two before your headache begins you could experience:

  • Depression or moodiness
  • Anxiety or nervousness
  • Being very tired or fatigued
  • Being very awake or hyperactive
  • Food cravings and binges

Migraine Headache Triggers

  • Strenuous exercise, sitting with poor posture, car accidents, and changes in weather
  • Emotional stress and worry, anxiety over a full schedule, and ongoing depression
  • Certain foods including: caffeine, wine, cheese, MSG, and hormone changes like PMS

Read more here about Migraine Headache Food Triggers.

Migraine Headache Relief and Treatment

  • Drink water and get hydrated
  • Take magnesium supplements to relax your muscles
  • Take fish oil too reduce inflammation
  • Relax in a dark or dimly lit room
  • Apply Ice packs to your head and neck for pain relief
  • Rest and close your eyes to calm your nervous system
  • Use trigger point release and acupressure
  • Have a Chiropractic Alignment to relax nerves
  • Receive Massage Therapy to relax muscles

Over the past 14 years in practice we have seen many patients gain tremendous relief from all types of headaches through chiropractic and massage therapy treatment. Many patients who had suffered for years with painful headaches resolve their pain within a few weeks of proper treatment. If you need help with headache relief, call our office to schedule an appointment at 781-829-9300. We will help you resolve your pain as soon as possible. These services are provided with no long term patient obligation or commitment.

Sincerely Yours in Health,

Dr. Jack Sarro

Neck Pain Symptoms

Written May 6th, 2013 by
Categories: Back Pain Relief
Comments Off on Neck Pain Symptoms

Do you hear grinding, clicking, or popping when you rotate your neck side to side? Maybe you wake up often with a stiff neck, or have limited range of motion? A few of the more common signs you may have an underlying condition can include difficulty turning your neck to back up your car, or neck pain or tightness when you are under stress.

Neck Pain Anatomy

Your neck is made up of seven bones called cervical vertebra and a variety of nerves, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The vertebra of the neck start at the base of the skull and go all the way down to your upper shoulders. Your neck vertebra support your head and carry vital information from your brain and spinal cord to your body.

neck-pain-can-effect-many-of-your-neck-muscles

Neck Pain Can Effect Many of Your Neck Muscles

Neck Pain Pinched Nerves

The nerves in your neck carry nerve energy to and from your arms and hands. It is is common for patients with a neck pain to report numbness, tingling, weakness, and or pain radiating into their shoulders, arms, and hands. These are clear signs that you may have a “pinched nerve” and you should seek help for your pain.

Neck Pain Common Causes

Neck pain is the second most common symptom we see patients for in our Hanover chiropractic and massage therapy office.

Neck Pain Causes:

  • Misaligned Neck Vertebra
  • Muscle Spasms
  • Degenerative Disc Disease
  • Herniated Disc
  • Neck Arthritis
  • Neck Inflammation
  • Poor Neck Posture
  • Shoulder and Upper Back Tightness

Neck Pain Relief Treatment

To properly resolve neck pain you need to have correct neck alignment, muscular health, and inflammation control. The following treatments are very effective for neck pain relief.

  • Chiropractic Alignments
  • Soft Tissue Treatments
  • Massage Therapy
  • Home Stretching and Exercises
  • Ice Pack Applications
  • Rest and Relaxation
  • Inflammation Correction with Proper Nutrition and Supplements

If you would like help resolving your pain please call my office to schedule a free consultation and neck pain audit. We will gladly answer any questions or concerns you may have about neck pain relief treatment.

Read more free information here on Neck Pain Relief and Treatment

Best Regards,

Dr. Sarro

Plantar Fasciitis Signs

Written April 28th, 2013 by
Categories: Back Pain Relief, Sports Injuries
Comments Off on Plantar Fasciitis Signs

Do you wake up in the morning, step out of bed, and say “ouch!” from foot or heel pain? If you push on the bottom of your foot are there any painful tender spots? When you walk or play sports do you feel pain when you push off? Do you feel like you might tear a tight muscle on the bottom of your foot? If you answered yes to any of these questions then you may be suffering from plantar fasciitis.

Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms

Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammation on the bottom of your foot which involves the connective tissue, also known as the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a fibrous band of tissue that supports the arch and muscles of your foot. This fascia runs from your heel to your toes. Inflammation can cause pain anywhere along the bottom of your foot. This condition can also involve a heel or bone spur.

plantar-fasciitis-causes-pain-on-the-bottom-of-your-foot

Plantar Fasciitis Causes Pain on the Bottom of Your Foot

Plantar Fasciitis Relief

To treat your plantar fasciitis properly you should address the following areas:

  • The alignment, mechanics, and nerve supply to and from your foot
  • The soft tissue, scar tissue, and trigger points of your foot
  • Inflammation control and correction of your foot

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Tips

A comprehensive approach to your plantar fasciitis could include the following treatments:

  • Chiropractic alignments to your heel, foot, ankle, lumbar spine, and pelvis
  • Scar tissue release therapies to your plantar fascia
  • Home exercises, wall stretches, and calf raises for your plantar fascia
  • Rolling the bottom of your foot over a tennis ball
  • Ice the bottom of your foot using a frozen water bottle to reduce inflammation
  • Inflammation control and correction with supplements and nutrition 

Read more information here on Plantar Fasciitis Causes and Treatment.

If you would like additional information on plantar fasciitis recovery, please call my office to schedule a complimentary consultation and pain audit at 781-829-9300. You may be only a few weeks away from playing tennis or running again pain free.

Best Regards,

Dr. Sarro