Wellness Center Services

Transformation Wellness Center, LLC is a cooperative effort of many highly-skilled and experienced wellness practitioners all working together in a variety of complementary modalities to give our clients the tools necessary to achieve and maintain wellness long term.  We are a 1500 square foot, ADA compliant facility with six treatment rooms to comfortably accommodate our clients’ needs and provide the following services:

Massage Therapy ( more info ) Deep Tissue Swedish Trigger Point Therapy Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Orthopedic Muscle Energy Balancing Advanced Bodywork Myofascial Release (MFR) Craniosacral Therapy (CST) Lymphatic Drainage Raindrop Therapy Reflexology Facilitated Stretching Aromatherapy (Applied)

Occupational Therapy ( more info ) Naturopathic Medicine ( more info ) Far Infrared Sauna ( more info ) Far Infrared Bio-Mat ( more info ) Wellness Classes & Workshops ( more info )

Massage Therapy

The manipulation of soft tissue through a variety of strokes or movement techniques to effect a change in muscle tone, nervous system response, circulation, lymph flow, and other body systems.

a. Deep Tissue —Massage focusing on the muscles located below the surface of the top muscles. This type of massage is generally used to address severe tension in the muscle and the connective tissue (fascia).

b. Swedish —The style of massage most commonly known, which uses slow, rhythmic strokes to bring about a relaxation response.

i. Blended—Massage that incorporates both relaxation type strokes and deeper, more aggressive styles to effect a change in the soft tissues but also promote relaxation.

c. Trigger Point Therapy —Trigger points are small contractures (usually the size of a pea) in muscle fibers found in taut bands of muscle and typically refer pain to another area.  Trigger points can be very painful and are known to cause a variety of symptoms including headaches, neck, jaw, shoulder, leg, and back pain.  They can also mimic the pain of arthritis, tendinitis and bursitis, carpel tunnel syndrome, etc.  Chronic pain caused by unresolved trigger points can often lead to depression and anxiety and fear of movement sometimes leading to decreased range of motion or the inability to move normally.  Trigger point therapy works to “break into the chemical and neurological feedback loop that maintains the muscle contraction, increase circulation that has been restricted by the contracted tissue, and directly stretches the trigger point’s knotted muscle fibers” all resulting in relief of pain caused by the trigger point. (Quoted ref: The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook 2 ^nd Edition by Clair Davies, NCTMB)

d. Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) — PNF uses joint movement to relax motor nerve impulses to increase range of motion (ROM). It utilizes techniques involving active (by the client) and passive (by the therapist) movement to bring about muscle lengthening.

e. Orthopedic —Orthopedic massage is more of an approach to assessing the mechanics of dysfunction.   The information obtained from the assessment allows the therapist to determine the right combination of techniques that will be best address the dysfunction, such as Myofascial Release, CST, PNF, Trigger Point, etc.

f. Muscle Energy Balancing —Muscle energy balancing involves client interaction to promote muscle relaxation and increased range of motion.  The techniques moves the client through their maximum range of motion, then uses resistance moves to facilitate release in shortened muscles.

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Myofascial Release

Fascia plays an important role in the support and function of our bodies, since it surrounds and attaches to all structures. In the normal healthy state, the fascia is relaxed and wavy in configuration. It has the ability to stretch and move without restriction. When one experiences physical trauma, emotional trauma, scarring, inflammation, surgical procedures, or simply habitually poor posture, the fascia loses its pliability. It becomes tight, restricted, and a source of tension to the rest of the body. This restriction can create a binding down of fascia resulting in excessive pressure on nerves, muscles, blood vessels, osseous structures, and/or organs.

Trauma causes changes in the fascial system that influences comfort and function of our body. Fascial restrictions can exert excessive pressure causing all kinds of symptoms producing pain, headaches or restriction of motion. Fascial restrictions affect our flexibility and stability and are a determining factor in our ability to withstand stress and perform daily activities.

Myofascial Release is a safe and very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. Each Myofascial Release Treatment session is performed directly on skin without oils, creams, or machinery. This enables the therapist to accurately detect fascial restrictions and apply the appropriate amount of sustained pressure to facilitate release of the fascia.

Myofascial Release is effective for a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction, including but not limited to:

Credits: The majority of the information contained in this fact sheet was obtained directly and without paraphrasing from newsletters and the website created by John F. Barnes. For more information, visit www.myofascialrelease.com

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Craniosacral Therapy

The craniosacral system is the body system comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Craniosacral therapy (CST) was pioneered and developed by osteopathic physician John E. Upledger following extensive scientific studies from 1975 to 1983 at Michigan State University.

CST uses a soft touch, generally no greater than about the weight of a nickel, to release restrictions in the craniosacral system to improve the function of the central nervous system.

By complementing the body's natural healing processes, CST is increasingly used as a preventive health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease, and is effective for a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction, including but not limited to:

Credits : The majority of the information contained in this fact sheet was obtained directly and without paraphrasing from newsletters and the website created by John E. Upledger. For more information, visit www.upledger.com

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Raindrop Therapy

The Raindrop Technique was developed by D. Gary Young, ND, founder of Young Living Essential Oils, based on his extensive study of the properties and benefits of essential oils and the techniques taught to him by a Lakota Indian medicine man.  Essential oils are derived from various plant materials (e.g. herbs, trees, shrubs, etc.) and have been documented to help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, clear lymph, and calm the nervous system, among other benefits.  Young combined the scientific properties and benefits of the oils with the Lakota healing tradition to effect a change in the structural and electrical alignment in the body to encourage healing.

The Raindrop Technique is a direct and ritualistic application of pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils to the spine and the spinal reflexes of the feet.  In a standard Raindrop session, 9 specific essential oils are used: 7 single oils (oregano, thyme, basil, cypress, wintergreen, marjoram, peppermint) and 2 blends (Valor, Aroma Siez).  (Some of the oils can be interchanged to customize the application to address a specific concern of the client.)

To begin the Raindrop Technique, the client lays face up as the therapist applies the oils into the spinal reflexes of the feet using a specific technique called the Vita Flex Technique.  The client then turns over and lays facedown as oils are dropped onto the spine from a height of 6-12 inches (hence “raindrop”).  The oils are gently applied to the spine and back with feather strokes (very light strokes that stimulate the nervous system) of the spine.  After the essential oils have been applied to the spine, a hot compress is applied to the back to drive the oils deeper into the cells.  The session is ended with cervical stretching.  However, ending the session with other modalities, such as craniosacral therapy, can be a very effective way to help integrate the healing response.

This powerful application of essential oils is used to encourage healing and has been used to successfully address many wellness concerns, including but not limited to scoliosis, chronic pain syndromes and dysfunction, and immunodeficiency.

The Essential Oils Desk Reference, Third Edition. Essential Science Publishing, 2006.

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Reflexology

The practice of reflexology has been around for centuries.  The International Institute of Reflexology defines the Ingham method of hand and foot reflexology as “a science that deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands which correspond to all of the glands, organs, and parts of the body.”  Eunice Ingham, a Physical Therapist, documented and mapped areas of the feet and hands to their related organs and body parts after years of study and testing.  Applying pressure to specific points was shown to have a beneficial effect on organs and body systems to encourage healing and promote proper function.

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Facilitated Stretching

Therapist assisted stretching techniques used to increase flexibility and range of motion.  The techniques may be passive (movement by the therapist only) or active (movement with assistance by the client) and may include resistance or PNF principles.

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Aromatherapy (Applied)

“Aromatherapy is the inhalation of plant oils, called essential oils , for improved physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Essential oils are the pure essence of the plant—often referred to as nature's living energy—and can provide both psychological and physical benefits when used correctly. Essential oils can be used on their own for aromatherapy or with complementary natural ingredients, such as vegetable or carrier oils.” (Youngliving.com)

“Applied Aromatherapy”  While there are many benefits to traditional aromatherapy, massage therapist, Kim Conniff, uses the essential oils topically by applying them to various areas of the body to take the effect of essential oils beyond the olfactory system.  She believes they greatly enhance each bodywork session and uses them in most sessions without additional charge.  Her clients have experienced reduced muscle tension and inflammation, lymph detoxification, and a calming of the nervous system, among other benefits by using the oils in this manner.

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Lymph Drainage Therapy

A gentle hands-on method developed by Bruno Chikly, M.D., D.O. The lymphatic system comprises of lymph vessels that allow one to detoxify, regenerate tissues and maintain a healthy immune system.  These vessels transport many substances to lymph nodes that process them.  The performance of this system is often impacted due to surgery, trauma, burns, infections, inflammation, and stress.  As a result, lymph can stagnate and cellular functioning is compromised which can open the way to various physical ailments.

LDT assists in aiding the recirculation of body fluids in a precise way.  Trained therapists detect the specific rhythm, direction, depth and quality of lymph flow anywhere in the body.  They also have the capability of Manual Lymphatic Mapping of the vessels to detect areas of stagnation, and overall lymph circulation.  LDT helps recirculate body fluids, stimulates the immune system and balances the autonomic nervous system.  It can benefit a myriad of conditions, including:

• Lymphedema
• Generalized swelling
• Facilitation in post-op healing
• Skin conditions
• Immune System Dysfunction
• Regeneration of tissues from burns and post-surgical scarring
• Detoxification
• Chronic Pain
• Deep relaxation to aid depression, stress
• Symptoms from Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia
• ……..to name a few!

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Occupational Therapy

Traditional OT services including diagnosis for neck and upper extremity dysfunction, head injury, neurological dysfunction, etc.

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Naturopathic Medicine

Naturopathic Medicine is a holistic approach to achieving better health and sustainable wellness through customized programs designed to address your body’s specific needs and enhance its natural ability to heal itself.  Trained to address the root cause of disease and illness rather than individual symptoms, naturopathic doctors use a variety of approaches to enhance immune function, optimize digestion, reduce internal inflammation, and normalize metabolic functions.  These customized programs generally focus on diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes and may include natural therapies such as nutritional supplementation, botanical medicine, and homeopathy.

Our Naturopathic Doctor (ND) graduated with honors with a bachelor’s degree in Biology & Cross-Cultural Health Sciences.  She then attended a four-year, full-time doctorate program from one of only seven accredited Naturopathic Medical Schools in North America where she obtained her doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine.  She holds active memberships with the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, Michigan Association of Naturopathic Physicians, and Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians.  She believes in sustainable healthcare that considers biological, psychosocial, and environmental influences.  Her strengths, though not limited to, are mental health, family medicine, and chronic illness.

Conditions Treated

Our ND can offer support for an array of health concerns and conditions, some of which are listed below.  Keep in mind, however, you don’t have to be sick to see an ND as they are also trained in optimizing health and preventing disease.

Our ND offers new patients a complimentary consultation* to help them determine how her services may help them address their wellness concerns.

*The new patient complimentary consultation is an informal, 15-minute conversation that does not include recommendations, which can only be made after a thorough health history review.  It serves to answer any questions about naturopathic medicine or the services the doctor offers.

Treatments Utilized

• Nutritional/Dietary Counseling
• Supplemental Therapy
• Botanical Medicine
• Homeopathy
• Hydrotherapy
• Lifestyle Counseling
• Traditional Chinese Medicine

Naturopathic services are generally not covered by traditional health insurance but may qualify for reimbursement by HSA, FSA, or other work stipend wellness plans.

Our ND treats both children & adults.  Seniors age 65 years and older receive a 10% discount.

Please note: Michigan does not currently offer licensure to Naturopathic Doctors. Although our doctor holds an active license from the State of Kansas, in Michigan, naturopathic medicine is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease and is not intended as a substitute for regular medical care. Our doctor, though trained as a primary care physician, works as a Naturopathic Health Consultant in the State of Michigan.

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Far Infrared Sauna

Far infrared sauna therapy boosts the body’s ability to detoxify, leading to significant and lasting health benefits.  It is recognized worldwide by medical practitioners and health practitioners as perhaps the most effective method of removing both chemical and heavy metal toxins (including mercury) from the body.  {Far infrared is a section of the natural band of light that is not visible to the human eye, but can be felt as heat.  Unlike the high heat produced in traditional saunas, far infrared heat is able to penetrate the body to a depth of 1.5 to 2 inches.  This stimulates the body’s cellular detoxification process more effectively and at a lower temperature than a traditional sauna.  By being able to penetrate into the body, it is able to mobilize toxins that other forms of detoxification just cannot reach (chelation does not have this ability).

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Far Infrared Bio-Mat

The Richway Bio-Mat combines state of the art Far-Infrared Light and Negative Ion Technology with the healing power of Amethyst to deliver top notch professional therapeutic results. The Bio-Mat is approved by the FDA as a medical device, capable of the following functions. The Bio-Mat:

• Improves Circulation & Cardiovascular Function
• Improves Immune System Function
• Relieves Pain
• Burns Calories and Controls Weight
• Eases Joint Pain and Stiffness
• Reduces Stress and Fatigue
• Improves Skin
• Removes Bodily Toxins and Assists in Detoxification

The Bio-Mat also delivers Negative Ions , energizing the body for optimal health. The Negative Ions delivered through the Bio-Mat are delivered directly to the body through the skin’s surface via conduction. This greatly differs from ambient air ions delivered through the popular negative ion generators used for air cleaning, which NASA reported only positively effecting 25% of people. The direct conduction of negative ions allows for an immediate response and change in the body’s electrical field for 100% of the people, whereby cell channels are activated for a rapid return to the body’s optimal physiological state.

The Bio-Mat is further enhanced with Amethyst Crystals , known for their calming and healing effects since ancient times. The Bio-Mat is a revolutionary healing tool, ideal for health care professionals or anyone interested in improving their overall health and well-being.

Far Infrared Rays (FIR) penetrate 6-8 inches into the human body. These rays not only benefit the skin and muscle tissue on the surface of the body, but penetrate into deeper tissues. The FIR penetrates into the lymph glands, blood vessels, nerves, as well as key organs. The rays optimize the health of these tissues in a number of ways. First discovered by NASA, Scientists propose that among the energy spectrum coming from the sun, that the Far Infrared Ray waves are by far the safest and most beneficial electromagnetic energy available for the human body, directly affecting all metabolic and cellular functions.

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Wellness Classes and Workshops

Held on a variety of wellness topics including body awareness, healthy eating, avoiding toxin exposures and detoxification, effectively reducing stress, Qigong and meditation, Pilates for core strength and post-rehab, and much more.  See the classes tab for a schedule of current and upcoming classes.

Click Here for Upcoming Classes and Workshops

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