Practitioner of the Month: Allison Collingwood, RMT

Practitioner of the Month: Allison Collingwood, RMT

Every month, we’re showcasing one of our amazing practitioners so you can get to know them and their services better.

Allison Collingwood
RMT

 


ABOUT ALLISON COLLINGWOOD


 

Allison Collingwood graduated from the Registered Massage Therapy (RMT) program at Vancouver Career College in 2017. Since then, she has gathered several years of hands-on experience in massage and is fully registered with the College of Massage Therapists of BC (CMTBC).

 


Q&A


Allison shares how she got into massage therapy and what you can do to prevent and treat repetitive strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome.

1) What led you to pursue a career in massage therapy?

Coming from a place of chronic pain for many years and seeing friends and family in a similar condition but not having any answers is what initially sparked my interest in massage therapy. I wanted to learn about and understand the body better so I could not only help myself, but the people important to me as well and from there, help others in pain.

2) What types of techniques do you usually incorporate into your treatments?

In my massages, I use a mix of Swedish massage, tapotement (rapid rhythmic techniques), myofascial work, trigger point release, active and passive stretching, strengthening exercises if needed, and IASTM (instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization). With IASTM, I use two different metal tools to aid and increase the effects of massage. These are great for allowing a deeper tissue release in shorter time frames and can aid specifically with scar tissue adhesion and hypertonicity.


3) Approximately 15% of Canadians suffer from repetitive strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis. How do you recover from these injuries?

Recovering from repetitive strain injuries can be a long process with ups and downs, but can be made much easier with a consistent homecare program. It is important to keep in mind the repetitive motions that caused the injury and to give rest from this to the injured side. Other helpful methods are to alternate sides more often, stretch the over used muscles and strengthen the weak muscles.

4) What can you do to prevent repetitive strain injuries?

To prevent repetitive strain injuries, it is important to always alternate sides during activities, whether they seem strenuous or not. Repetitive strain injuries do not necessarily stem from heavy activity, but can stem even from any activity one does consistently during daily life and work such as carrying groceries, typing or using a scanner. Only do what your body can handle comfortably to avoid further chance of injury.

5) How often should you get a massage?

My personal recommendation for frequency of massage depends on the individual. If we are working on a specific issue that needs greater help to improve, I recommend a massage every one to two weeks. If the purpose is for general body maintenance, I recommend every four to six weeks given patient discretion.

 



From neck pain to tendonitis, Allison can help you overcome whatever issues you’re facing so you can achieve your health goals. Take the first step of your recovery journey by scheduling a massage with Allison today. 


 

Book a massage with Allison now

You can book a massage with Allison below or by giving us a call at 604-437-7777.

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