NEWSLETTER - August II 2024
Connective Massage & Bodywork
Christine Shimkus, LMT is Connective Massage & Bodywork. Christine has been a Licensed Massage Therapist and certified in Basic Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) since 2005.
When asked what motivates her practice of massage, Christine’s answer is simple, “The opportunity to improve someone’s quality of life”.
Many people wonder what ‘style’ NMT is and how it is different from other forms of massage. Actually, Neuromuscular Therapy is more an approach to problem solving rather than a particular style or technique. An NMT therapist first asks the question, ‘where is the problem coming from?’ The neuromuscular therapist then combines information from the client interview with results from functional observations and tests to begin answering this question. Based on the information gathered, the therapist uses multiple different techniques from Swedish, Deep Tissue, Myofascial Release, Trigger Point Therapy, etc., to work the muscles and other soft tissues, addressing the client’s concerns.
Another distinctive aspect to NMT is its use of neural feedback. A Neuromuscular focused practice uses enough pressure to keep the brain engaged and connected with the body without crossing the line to painful. The sensation of pain is counter-productive to everything a Neuromuscular treatment is trying to accomplish. This brain-to-body connection is key to correcting what is happening within the body.
While NMT can be a specific treatment to a specific problem, the knowledge base required to practice NMT also provides incredible opportunities during a relaxation or ‘body tune-up’ massage to locate and address issues that haven’t risen to the point of being a problem yet.
Christine has successfully worked with numerous concerns over her 19 years of practice including scoliosis; TMJ; severe recurrent headaches; scar tissue release; pregnancy and postpartum bodywork; and multiple conditions in the shoulders, neck, back, hips, and extremities.
As someone who has dealt with chronic pain herself, Christine also recognizes that soft tissue pain can come from a need to strengthen and/or rebalance muscles as much as releasing tension. In April 2024, Christine trained in the Level One Oov exercise program. The Oov is a revolutionary exercise apparatus shaped with the inverse curves of the spine and a rounded bottom. Exercises and stretches on the Oov provide a supported means of strengthening and rebalancing the body. While supported through these curves, the rounded bottom provides just the right amount of instability to fully engage the individual’s core and prevents secondary muscles from compensating or taking over the movement. Christine is very excited to add this aspect to her practice this fall.
“Improving quality of life is the primary focus of my practice. I aim to reconnect individuals with their bodies, to provide relief from discomfort and pain, to help individuals move better and enjoy the confidence that comes with that ability.”
Christine’s current continuing education focuses on obtaining her Precision Neuromuscular Therapy Certification and further training in the Oov exercise program.
Christine sees clients Monday through Friday by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling or texting her at 515-450-4405.