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Abdominal Massage for Women's Health

Women’s health can be deeply supported through Abdominal Therapy. This hands-on technique helps improve circulation, encourage proper alignment of the pelvic organs, and support fertility, hormonal balance, and digestive wellness. 

A DEEPER LOOK AT THE PRACTICE

When abdominal and reproductive organs are in proper alignment, hormones, blood, and lymph fluid are unrestricted and able to circulate properly. When these organs are out of alignment, the flow of these essential substances is inhibited, leading to health dysfunction. Mis-alignment in even one of these organs will have a detrimental impact on the surrounding organs and systems of the abdomen.

Common women's health issues such as incontinence, painful periods, and heaviness in the pelvis, are often considered "normal" by many health professionals. Yes, these are very common issues, but they are not normal. Most of the time these issues can be corrected, or greatly improved.

 

During sessions, an assessment of any mis-alignments will be made. Then we'll gently mobilize and reposition those organs, optimizing health and function to the reproductive and digestive systems.

Women's Health Conditions We Support

ABSENT OR IRREGULAR CYCLE

INCONTINENCE OR FREQUENT URINATION

PROLAPSE OF UTERUS OR BLADDER

SCAR TISSUE

DIASTASIS RECTI

PAIN WITH INTERCOURSE

POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME (PCOS)

PMS ⊕ PMDD

TILTED UTERUS

FIBROIDS ⊕ CYSTS

PREGNANCY LOSS

REPEATED PREGNANCY CLOSE TOGETHER

PAINFUL OVULATION OR CYCLE

PELVIC NUMBNESS

PELVIC PAIN

POSTPARTUM CARE

PERMENOPAUSE + MENOPAUSE

HEAVINESS IN PELVIS

ENDOMETRIOSIS ⊕ ADENOMYOSIS

SPOTTING

HORMONAL IMBALANCES

INJRUY TO SACRUM ⊕ COCCYX 

SURGICAL RECOVERY

INFERTILITY

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When should I schedule my Initial Visit? 

Scheduling an Initial Visit is optimal at anytime. If you get a period, & part of your cycle is painful/uncomfortable, aim to schedule outside of those days. 

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on symptoms and health care goals. With mild symptoms, a minimum of 4-6 sessions over 3 months is recommended.

What to expect during an Abdominal Therapy Session?

 

During your Initial Visit (90 minutes):

  • Review of your comprehensive intake form to set health goals and determine treatment plan.

  • Receive an Abdominal Massage

  • Learn self-massage techniques

 

During your Follow Up Session (60 or 90 minutes):

  • Receive an Abdominal Massage

  • Review self-massage techniques

 

The entire abdomen will be addressed during sessions (between the ribs and pelvic bone), along with lower back and hips as appropriate. All abdominal therapy is external. 

What should I eat before my session?

Eat a light meal or snack 2-3 hours before your session.

When is Abdominal Therapy Contraindicated?

  • After childbirth, clients can return after 6 weeks following a vaginal birth and 3 months following a c-section.

  • When cancer or an active infection is present in the abdomen.

Abdominal Therapy is a complementary therapy to enhance health and wellness. If you have a serious medical condition, please consult with your health care provider.

LOCATION
Lake Shore Physical Therapy
 
3101 N Greenview Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657​
CONTACT
Katie Dougherty, LMT

katiej.dougherty@gmail.com
HOURS OF OPERATION
By Appointment Only

Tuesday 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday 11:00 am - 6:30 pm
Thursday 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
​Katie Dougherty Abdominal Massage
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