Massage is manual soft tissue manipulation, and includes holding, causing movement, and/or pressure to the body. Therapy is a series of actions aimed at achieving or increasing health and wellness. Manual means by use of hand or body.
Massage Therapy is a profession in which the practitioner applies manual techniques, and may apply adjunctive therapies, with the intention of positively affecting the health and well-being of the client.
Therapeutic massage involves the manipulation of soft tissue structures of the body that prevent and alleviate stress, muscle spasm, pain and discomfort. During massage the circulatory, lymphatic and nervous system function is increased and the rate at which the body recovers from injury and illness may improve. There are many benefits from massage some of which include:
- Dilates the blood vessels and improves circulation throughout the body
- Acts as a mechanical cleanser by stimulating the lymph activity
- Relaxes muscles spasms and relieves tension
- Increases blood supply and nutrition to the muscles
- May have a sedative, simulating or exhausting effect on the recipient
- Heightens tissue metabolism and increases tissue nutrition
- Helps lessen inflammation and swelling in joints
Research findings support the benefits of massage. Massage Therapy is basically a pain management and preventive measure modality. Massage is indicated for many conditions. Some of which include:
- Arthritis
- Auto Accident Injuries
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Depression
- Enhanced Sports Performance
- Fibromyalgia
- Headaches
- High Blood Pressure
- Insomnia
- Reduced Range of Motion
- Sinusitis
- Sports Injuries
- TMJ Disorder
- Whiplash
- Women's Health Issues