Medi-Spa Services Including Massage and Acupuncture

The Medi-Spa at Mercy

Our massage specializations include oncology massage, prenatal massage and rejuvenation massage. Our licensed acupunturists help to restore the natural flow and balance of life energy (Qi) to promote health and well-being.

Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves the stimulation of specific points on the body to manipulate the nervous system and promote movement throughout the body. Effective in relieving physical ailments and emotional problems, this form of integrative medicine is safe and virtually painless. Acupuncture is a form of traditional Eastern healing that has been practiced for thousands of years.

What can Acupuncture help relieve?

Acupuncture may be helpful in relieving side effects of cancer treatment, including:

• Pain
• Anxiety
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Hot flashes
• Neuropathy
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Shortness of breath
• Sexual dysfunction

Acupuncture has also been used to relieve other chronic conditions, such as:

• Migraines & other chronic or severe headaches
• Stroke rehabilitation
• Menstrual cramps
• Menopausal complaints
• Tennis elbow
• Fibromyalgia
• Myofascial pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Lumbago, or low back pain
• Asthma
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Infertility

In addition to helping relieve specific conditions, acupuncture also promotes overall physical and emotional well being. It can be used to assist with lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation, stress reduction and weight loss. Acupuncture is known for being a deeply relaxing treatment.

Do the needles hurt?

When the needles are inserted, you may feel a tapping or pinching sensation, or you may feel nothing at all. Acupuncture utilizes ultra-thin needles that are often thinner than a human hair. Unlike needles used to draw blood or administer injections, acupuncture needles are generally painless.

What can you expect during your first visit?

Upon a patient’s initial visit, the acupuncture practitioner will assess medical history and patient goals to develop a customized treatment plan. Acupuncture treatments are intended to build on each other, meaning a treatment course will often involve appointments occurring weekly or bi-weekly for a period of time. The first course of needles will be administered during the initial visit.

What is the cost?

The Medi-Spa at Mercy offers acupuncture on Wednesdays between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. The cost is $150 for the initial consultation and $110 follow up.

Integrative care and complimentary therapies are slowly beginning to be covered by insurance companies. Depending on your insurance provider and individual plan, you may qualify for partial or even full reimbursement for your acupuncture treatment.

The Medi-Spa at Mercy operates as a fee for service entity, requiring self pay up front. However, Medi-Spa staff members are able to generate billing notes including codes necessary to process insurance reimbursements. This means that you will pay at the time of service and may be reimbursed directly after submission of billing note and receipt if your insurance company provides coverage.

Unfortunately not all insurance companies are providing reimbursement for acupuncture. In order to find out whether you qualify for reimbursement, call your insurance company directly and inquire about integrative care covered within your specific plan.

Massage - Therapeutic

The Medi-Spa at Mercy offers therapeutic massage using a variety of specialized massage techniques.

Therapeutic Massage at The Medi-Spa at Mercy includes:

• Oncology Massage
• Lymph Drainage Therapy
• Prenatal Massage

Oncology Massage

Oncology massage is a gentle, nurturing style of massage meant to sooth the body, mind and spirit of anyone who is dealing with the effects of cancer and the treatment of cancer (chemotherapy, radiation and surgery). Nurturing touch by oncology massage therapists provides ease from pain, physical and emotional comfort and reinforces a positive connection to health. Because of this, oncology massage is available in many of the world's leading cancer hospitals including Mercy Medical Center. Oncology massage is rarely covered by insurance but there are scholarships and programs available for free massages while hospitalized at Mercy.

How can Oncology Massage benefit a cancer patient?

Research has shown that massage can reduce the physical effects of cancer treatments including pain, nausea, vomiting and swelling or edema. It also supports health by reducing anxiety, depression, fear and isolation and can help with increased body image, feelings of acceptance and well being.

Oncology massage training addresses the full spectrum of cancer-related issues: the physical consequences of cancer, the side effects of various treatments, and also emotional considerations. Your therapist will adapt his/her massage therapy techniques to your specific needs. In the words of one patient, oncology massage is like "a vacation from cancer."

Will massage cause my cancer to spread?

Some patients have expressed fear that massage may cause cancer to spread but current clinical research has shown that massage does not contribute to the spread of cancer. Our therapists will take into account your desires as well as the areas of cancer. If you have any concern talk to your therapist about her/his plan for your massage.


Lymph Drainage Therapy
When our lymph circulation stagnates, the fluids, proteins, dead cells and toxins accumulate in the body which can lead to chronic inflammation, chronic pain, allergies and other physical ailments. Using a gentle touch, Lymph Drainage Therapy (LDT) works to help recirculate body fluids, stimulate the immune system, detoxify the body, and balance the autonomic nervous system. LDT can be experienced by those who simply wish to have a detoxification treatment, by those who suffer from some "Dis-Ease," and by people who have had lymph nodes removed due to cancer or infection and wish to help prevent lymphedema. *Please note that those who suffer from lymphedema need to seek treatment from someone trained to treat this condition.

Prenatal Massage
A massage at any time during the 2nd and 3rd trimester of a pregnancy can help relieve muscle spasms and cramps especially in the back, neck and legs. Massage can increase blood and lymph circulation, help reduce swelling and offer a nurturing touch in a safe, relaxing environment. Women with high risk pregnancies are encouraged to come in for massage with the authorization of a physician or midwife.

Gift Certificates to The Medi-Spa at Mercy are available upon request.

Massage - Rejuvenation

The Medi-Spa at Mercy offers rejuvenation massage using a variety of specialized massage techniques.

Rejuvenation Massage offered at the Medi-Spa includes:

• Swedish Massage
• Deep Tissue Massage
• Hot Stone Massage

Massage Therapy has many benefits that can help strengthen your immune system, improve your posture, increase your joint flexibility and range of motion, and lower your blood pressure.

It can also:

• Increase the nourishing blood supply to your tissues
• Improve your energy and alertness
• Aid in recovery from pulled muscles or sprained ligaments
• Offer relief for certain repetitive motion injuries
• Ease many of the uncomfortable stresses related to child bearing, such as edema, backaches and exhaustion
• Help to compensate for lack of exercise and muscular contraction due to age, injury or illness
• Encourage the elimination of waste and toxic debris stored in muscles
• Heighten the oxygenation of tissues
• Stimulate the relaxation response within the nervous system

In today’s society we constantly deal with stress, at work, at home, or even at play. It is a necessary component of life. However, frequent or unrelenting stress can have damaging effects on your body resulting in discomfort and pain. High blood pressure, changes in blood sugar, ulcers, headaches, hypertension, colitis and heart disease are only some of the adverse manifestations of stress.

It has been shown that one of the best methods to combat stress is massage. Massage can dramatically reverse the damaging physiological effects of stress by helping to lower heart rate and blood pressure, improve circulation, and heighten your sense of well-being (through the release of endorphins). Don’t let accumulated stress and tension spoil your pleasure and productivity in life.

The Medi-Spa uses the finest products combined with highly trained massage therapists to offer our clients a truly remarkable experience. Your journey follows a sequence of massage movements influenced and inspired by an exotic blend of cultures and techniques.

Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is the most popular approach to massage therapy, and therefore the modality that comes to mind when most people hear the word "massage." With proven benefits in relaxation and stress reduction, Swedish massage is the best known form of bodywork performed in spas today. Swedish massage incorporates long gliding strokes, circular pressure, percussion-like tapping, bending, stretching and light to medium kneading techniques to stimulate blood flow and decrease toxins within the muscles. A Swedish approach is recommended for first-time massage recipients as well as anyone with the primary goal of relaxation and rejuvenation in mind.

Deep Tissue Massage
A deep pressure, firm massage, focusing on relieving tension and aching muscles, are the fundamental elements of the Deep Tissue Muscle Massage. Combined with specially blended massage oils, this treatment can be tailor-made to suit the individual needs of the client.

Gift Certificates to The Medi-Spa at Mercy are available upon request.

Medi-Spa Advanced Performance Facials

Beauty is no longer skin deep. And facials, medical skin care products, and chemical peels are no longer considered a luxury. They are considered preventative and/or part of a regular routine of maintenance. The products carried at the Medi-Spa can enhance and restore the health of the skin and body. This in turn, improves both physical and emotional well-being. Achieving skin health, wellness and happiness, enhances our inner and outer beauty. And this affects all areas of our lives. Look stunning and feel great!

Facials are customized to address every need.

Mini Facial
Includes cleansing, toning, mini massage and a mask to complement your skin type. Introduce a good skin care regimen as well as which products you will need to maintain it.

European Deep Cleansing Facial
Deep cleaning techniques and exfoliation will slough dead skin away. Steam and a hydrating mask will leave skin soft, radiant and tones. This facial is a great start to healthy skin.

Sensitive Skin/ Anti-redness Facial
This nurturing facial is for rosacea, redness or extremely sensitive skin. Special products are used to gently cleanse, cool, and calm skin. Hydrate and protect sensitive skin without aggravation.

Hydrating Facial
Your skin is dry and crying out for more moisture. This rejuvenating, hydrating facial provides the skin with the ultimate absorption of products, leaving skin luscious and radiant.

Acne Facial
Deep cleansing techniques combined with steam, extractions and a purifying mask. This facial is beneficial for all acne patients from occasional breakouts to problematic skin. Treats blemishes and blackheads, reduces excessive oil production, improves skin texture and appearance.

The Ultimate Oxygen and Serum Facial

• Hyaluronic Acid (super moisturizer, assists infusion of serum vitamins)
• Vitamin A (antioxidant, essential for healthy skin growth, anti-aging)
• Vitamin C (antioxidant, essential for collagen synthesis)
• Vitamin E (antioxidant, improves barrier function of skin)
• Green Team (antioxidant, helps neutralize free radicals)
• Aloe Vera (calming moisturizer, assists in retention of oxygen)

Results from Ultimate Oxygen and Serum Facial:

• Fresher, healthier skin
• Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Stimulates circulation
• Increased oxygenation of the skin
• Supplements collagen and elastin production

The Ultimate Oxygen and Serum Facial is soothing and relaxing and suitable for all skin types. In just one treatment, your skin will look and feel years younger. Your face will be smooth and clarified, nourished and hydrated. Skin looks rejuvenated, radiant and fresh.

For optimum results, a series of 6 Ultimate Oxygen ad Serum Facials is recommended.

Waxing

Gigi All Purpose Honee is the perfect wax for every job.

• It is gentle enough for delicate areas
• The formula is all natural
• It was developed to remove the unwanted hair, but leaves the skin smooth and sleek

At the Medi-Spa we take waxing as seriously as any other face or body treatment.

Waxing Prices