What is Massage Therapy?
Massage Therapy is a very viable adjunct therapy to
be used in conjunction with medical protocol in aiding recovery,
pain management, and stress reduction.
As a practice, massage therapy dates back to 2000 B.C. In Egyptian
burial tombs, hieroglyphics depicted physicians massaging feet,
legs, and shoulders of their patients. Hippocrates learned massage,
and felt that gentle stroking induces sleep.
Massage is not a cure-all, but through this type of therapy we can
strive to improve the quality of life and aid in the healing process.
This service should be part of one's wellness and not be considered
a luxury.
Who Benefits?
· People of all ages
· Anyone with a stressful lifestyle
· Newborns/Infants
· Pre/Post operative patients
· People with emotional stress or depression
· Cardiac patients
· Chronically ill
· Arthritis patients
· Fibromyalgia patients
Benefits of Massage
· Reduces emotional and physical stress
· Increases circulation
· Encourages lymphatic flow
·Increases range of motion
· Improves sleep patterns
· Stimulates the release of body endorphins (natural
pain killer)
· Helps remove the body's accumulated waste and toxins
Ask your doctor about the benefits of massage. Some insurance
plans cover massage.
Types of Massage Therapy
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage originated in France. It utilizes specific strokes
including light touch to deep muscle  massage,
vibration, etc. This is beneficial for decreasing muscle spasms,
increasing circulation, and decreasing recovery time from sports
injuries. A technique that uses different types of movements such
as friction, kneading, etc. used to loosen the muscles and increase
circulation. It is good for all different types of problems, whether
muscular or stress related.
What to expect:
Swedish is performed with clothing off using oil or cream. The body
is draped with towels or sheets for the patient's comfort. In shiatsu,
the clothing may remain on at the patient's discretion. This type
of massage is recommended for complete relaxation, and aids in the
healing process. Therapists use their fingers, thumbs, elbows &
arms in these massages.
Sports Massage
Deep massage that works on specific areas of the body associated
with the sport of which you participate. Bicyclists, runners and
joggers need more legwork done, swimmers need more arm and shoulder
work. Excellent for those who also work out vigorously.
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