Victoria Polkinghorn

Returning Tuesday 5th September after a wonderful August break.

Please book via WhatsApp
📞 0758973216

All bookings can be made via

☎️ +33 758973216
📧 [email protected]

I am thrilled to announce that I have the incredible opportunity to work at the prestigious English Osteopath Clinic located in Monaco. In my role as a sports massage therapist, I specialize in trigger point therapy, enhancing range of motion, and preventing injuries. The prospect of being a part of this clinic and utilizing my skills to help athletes and individuals reach their optimum potential fills me with immense enthusiasm.

To book an appointment please contact me on 0758973216

Massage therapy has been known to have various positive effects on the body, including the release of hormones that can contribute to overall well-being. Here are some of the benefits of hormone release during a massage:
1. Endorphin release: Massage can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood enhancers. Endorphins promote a sense of well-being, reduce pain perception, and create a state of relaxation and contentment.
2. Serotonin production: Massage can increase the production and release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter known for its mood-regulating effects. Serotonin promotes feelings of happiness, reduces anxiety and depression, and contributes to an overall sense of emotional well-being.
3. Dopamine release: Massage therapy can also trigger the release of dopamine, another neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Dopamine helps regulate mood, motivation, and feelings of pleasure, and its release during a massage can create a sense of satisfaction and relaxation.

4. Reduced stress hormones: Massage therapy has been shown to decrease the production of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline. High levels of these hormones are associated with stress, anxiety, and the "fight or flight" response. By reducing stress hormone levels, massage promotes relaxation and helps the body recover from the effects of chronic stress.

5. Improved sleep: Hormones released during massage, particularly serotonin and melatonin, can positively influence sleep patterns. Serotonin helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, while melatonin is responsible for inducing sleep. By promoting hormonal balance, massage can improve the quality and duration of sleep.

6. Enhanced immune function: Massage has been found to increase the activity of natural killer cells, lymphocytes, and other immune system components.
Hormonal changes induced by massage, such as the reduction in stress hormones, contribute to strengthening the immune system and enhancing its ability to fight off illnesses.

This Thomas test is a physical assessment technique used to evaluate the flexibility of the hip flexor muscles and to determine if there is any tightness or restriction in these muscles.

Here are the steps to perform the Thomas test:

1. Lie flat on your back on a firm surface such as a table or bed.
2. Bring both of your knees to your chest and hug them with your hands.
3. Slowly release one leg, keeping the knee bent, and allow it to hang off the edge of the table or bed.
4. Keep the other leg hugged to your chest throughout the test.
5. Observe the position of the hanging leg. If the thigh of the hanging leg lifts off the table or bed, then it indicates tightness in the hip flexor muscles.
6. Repeat the test with the other leg.
7. If you notice tightness or restriction in either hip flexor, a stretching routine may be beneficial to help increase flexibility in those muscles.
It's important to note that this test should be performed by a qualified healthcare professional or trained practitioner.
They can accurately interpret the results and provide appropriate recommendations based on your individual needs. Here I am performing a MET on the hip flexor to encourage lengthening

Massage can be an effective way to release headaches and pain, as it can help to relax tense muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area. When you experience a headache or pain, it may be due to muscle tension, poor circulation, or other factors that cause discomfort.

Massage can help to release tension and tightness in the muscles, which can be a common cause of headaches and pain. By applying pressure and gentle manipulation to the affected area, massage can help to increase blood flow and oxygen to the muscles, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

In addition, massage can help to stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. This can help to reduce the sensation of pain and promote feelings of relaxation and wellbeing.

Overall, massage can be a valuable tool for managing headaches and pain, as it can help to promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and improve circulation, all of which can help to alleviate discomfort and promote healing. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider if you experience persistent or severe pain, as this may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.