Massage is perhaps one of the oldest healing traditions. Many ancient peoples – including the Ancient Greeks, Egyptians, Chinese and Indians – were convinced of the therapeutic properties of massage and used it to treat a variety of ailments. Massage therapy is the practice of kneading or manipulating a person’s muscles and other soft-tissue in order to improve their wellbeing or health.
It is a form of manual therapy that includes holding, moving, and applying pressure to the , tendons, ligaments and fascia. The term ‘massage therapy’ is used to describe a wide variety of techniques that vary in the manner in which touch, pressure and the intensity of the treatment is applied. Research indicates that massage is effective in managing: They can also be effectively used to support people with: One of the immediate benefits of massage is a feeling of deep relaxation and calm.
This occurs because massage prompts the release of endorphins – the brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that produce feelings of wellbeing. Levels of stress hormones, such as adrenalin, cortisol and norepinephrine, are also reduced. Studies indicate that high levels of stress hormones impair the Some of the physical benefits of massage and myotherapy include:
- Typically
- massage practitioners use either oil or talcum powder to allow their hands to slip over a person’s skin
Sometimes, a sheet or thin piece of cloth might be used for the same effect. Different types of massage may include:
- is the objective assessment treatment rehabilitation of the signs
- symptoms causes of biomechanical dysfunction or injury using specific mobilisation techniques
- in order to restore normal health
- function. – also known as ‘Western’ or ‘Swedish’ massage
One of the most popular forms of massage in United States, this technique is designed to promote relaxation and improve blood circulation. – a gentle whole-body treatment which relaxes the nervous system and aids the body’s immune system. – essential oils made from selected flowers and plants are added to the massage oil for their particular therapeutic properties.
For example, the scent of sandalwood is thought to reduce nervous tension. – based on the principle that certain parts of the body reflect the whole. Reflex points, which relate to all parts of the body, can be found in the feet, hands, face and ears.
These points respond to pressure, stimulating the body’s own natural healing process. – an oriental massage technique that aims to improve energy flow by working certain points on the body. The underlying principles of shiatsu massage are similar to those of acupuncture.
– this is an application of massage, not a particular massage technique. The type of technique or treatment applied is dependent on the nature of the stage of training or competition, sports injury or condition and the assessment of the remedial massage therapist. Sport massage is a blend of techniques that aim to enhance performance and help overworked muscles to recover quickly.
– this technique concentrates on the deeper layers of muscle tissue with the aim to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body, through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on contracted areas, by either following or crossing over the muscle fibres, fascia and tendons. The techniques can include Trigger Point Therapy, deep tissue massage and stretching, thereby creating an improved range of motion through the joints.
There are some instances where massage and myotherapy may not be recommended, or a GP (doctor) or specialist referral should be obtained, including (but not limited to): if the person has a chronic condition.
About massage muscles Massage for treatment of some disorders subacute/chronic low back pain delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) anxiety stress soft tissue injuries high blood pressure insomnia osteoarthritis headaches a chronic disease a life threatening illness, such as cancer Benefits of massage immune system reduced muscle tension improved circulation stimulation of the lymphatic system reduction of stress hormones relaxation increased joint range of motion improved skin tone improved recovery of soft tissue injuries heightened mental alertness reduced anxiety and depression Different types of massage Remedial Therapeutic Lymphatic drainage Aromatherapy Reflexology Shiatsu Sports Deep tissue massage Massage – special considerations during pregnancy if skin rashes, cuts or infections are present if fractures or broken bones are suspected if the person has a life threatening illness Where to get help Your GP (doctor) Massage & Myotherapy United States (American Association of Massage Therapists) American Massage Directory – Find a qualified massage therapist, remedial massage therapist or myotherapist.