Haller practices variety in massage therapy

Many people have suffered through the pain of pulled muscles and other related injuries, aches and strains. Licensed massage therapist Joelene Haller has been easing the pain of muscle issues for over five years.

Haller's business, Professional Bodywork, is located in the Applied Medical Plaza. She feels the range of other therapeutic and spa-like businesses located within Applied Medical Plaza are an advantage for her clients, as well as her own business.

"Everything kind of flows together," Haller said. "I would probably draw people from both standpoints. People who need therapy and people who need to relax."

Haller practices about six specific massage techniques, including Swedish massage and trigger point therapy. Trigger point therapy is often paired with a deep tissue massage.

Another technique Haller specializes in is pregnancy massage. She uses a special cushion to ensure expecting moms are comfortable.

"With a pregnancy massage you have to know where to stay away from and areas to concentrate on," Haller said.

Haller also does infant massages.

"If a child has colic or gastrointestinal problems, I can work on them," Haller said. "I kind of try to show the parents how to make them feel a little bit better."

Hot stone massage is also practiced by Haller. This type of therapy uses smooth, heated stones to help relax muscles.

"You put them on certain areas of the body," Haller said. "A lot of people like it in the winter time because of the warmth."

To enhance her clients' experience, Haller includes aromatherapy in massage sessions. She offers a wide variety of essential oils to promote relaxation.

Soothing music is another important element in Haller's practice.

"I have a ton of music. I try to make the environment as relaxing and stress free as possible," Haller said.

Haller custom fits each session to her clients' particular needs by integrating numerous massage techniques into a single session.

"Most of my work is everyday stress reduction, from upper body stress to headaches and migraines," Haller said. "A lot of times headaches are due to muscle tension in the neck and shoulders."

More severe problems can also be relieved by massage therapy.

"I can help with injury and help rehabilitation go a little bit easier," Haller said. "I kind of do a little bit of everything."

Because of the strain put on her hands every day, Haller has to be careful not to overwork herself.

"My job is probably more physically demanding than anything," Haller said.

A Dickinson native, Haller has always had a passion for massage therapy.

"Ever since I was younger, it's just something I always enjoyed doing," Haller said.

Haller received her education from the Utah College of Massage Therapy. After she became certified, she moved back to Dickinson and began her practice at Ouelette Chiropractic. She worked out of Oulette Chiropractic for over a year.

She then decided it was time to move into her own office. She reopened her business in Applied Medical Plaza in December 2006.

"This was a better opportunity for my business," Haller said. "My work space is bigger and I really like the location."

Applied Medical Plaza also provides Haller's clients with a quiet atmosphere, which is essential for therapy.

Professional Bodywork is located at 227 16th St. W. Call 483-9800 to make an appointment with Haller.