Complements for Health

WHAT IS MASSAGE THERAPY?

Technically defined, massage therapy is the manual manipulation of the soft tissue of the body, with the intention of affecting the health and wellbeing of the recipient.

Basically, therapeutic massage is non-sexual touch in a safe, caring environment for the purposes of: relaxation, stress reduction, pain reduction, and relief from muscle tension, increasing circulation, or specific clinical reasons.

MAJOR BENEFITS OF THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

• Increased circulation - By increasing the flow of blood and lymph fluids, nutrients and oxygen reach the tissue and metabolic wastes and toxins are removed. White blood cells, which are key components of our immune system, circulate and are ready to defend our bodies against infection. In this way massage helps to strengthen our immune system. An increase in blood flow also aids in healing of an injury by transporting the substances involved in clotting and tissue repair. It is easy to see that just by increasing circulation, massage can have a profound impact on the systems of the body.
• Stress Reduction and Relaxation - As much as 80% of all ailments are caused by stress (and 100% are probably aggravated by it), so reducing our levels of stress is of critical importance to maintaining health. Massage is one of many ways to help combat the challenges of modern life. Massage counteracts the effects of stress by reducing the heart rate and blood pressure, allowing for deeper breathing, relieving muscle tension, calming the mind, fostering a sense of wellbeing, and promoting balance in the body’s systems. Massage fights stress on every level on which it attacks - physically, mentally, and emotionally.
• Reduction of Chronic Muscle Tension/Spasm & Pain - - Chronic muscle tension can result from illness, injury, or stress. Tight muscle tissue can literally be stuck in spasm. Circulation is greatly impaired (nutrients can’t get in, wastes and toxins can’t get out), flexibility is reduced and pain or discomfort is experienced. This pain is simply your body’s signal to you that something’s wrong. If it’s not immediately addressed, the pain-spasm-pain cycle begins. The initial muscle spasm causes pain, and the pain results in more spasm, and yet more pain. Massage can break the cycle by manually releasing the tissue, relaxing it and allowing proper circulation and freer movement. Massage also initiates the release of endorphins - the body’s natural painkillers. Likewise, therapeutic massage is effective in injury rehabilitation. It can help break up adhesions and scar tissue, reduce inflammation, promote healing, and increase range of motion.
• Enhancing Performance - Massage improves mental performance by relieving stress, and enhancing mental clarity, alertness, and creativity. A study done by the Touch Research Institute revealed that people who received 15 minute of seated massage (versus the control group doing relaxation exercises) exhibited significant increases in speed and accuracy on math problems and other tests. Massage improves physical performance by increasing range of motion, reducing muscle tension and improving the overall condition of muscle tissue. The sports-related use of massage therapy is very well documented and serious athletes have come to depend on regular massage to maintain peak performance, recover faster from injuries, and help prevent further injury. But enhancing physical performance is pertinent to anyone who engages in extensive physical activity. The more demands we put on our muscles, the harder they work. This results in an accumulation of metabolic wastes, increased muscle tension, and a greater potential for injury. Overexertion can occur in a wide variety of occupations - i.e. the typist may be running her own marathon on a keyboard.
• Satisfying Our Need for Touch - An overwhelming amount of research supports our need for human touch. Many people regard our society as “touch-starved”. Our technology and fast-paced lifestyles have limited our interactions with others, particularly physical interaction. There is a great need for non-sexual, nurturing touch that calms and comforts. I believe that in connecting with others (through touch), we connect with ourselves on a fundamental level.

THE CASE FOR REGULAR MASSAGE

Like exercise, the greatest benefits of massage therapy are achieved through regular participation. Though an occasional massage is certainly better than none at all, it is recommended that people evaluate their needs and their budget to determine if massage on a regular basis is appropriate for them. For some clients, regular massage means every 2 weeks, once a month, every 2 months, etc.

You can maximize the benefits of massage therapy to effectively:

Deal with ever-increasing amounts of stress

Condition the mind and body to accept the relaxation response and be able to “let go” of stress more efficiently and completely

Release chronic patterns of tension and re-educate muscles

Enhance mind/body awareness

Maintain overall health and wellness

Satisfy the requirement for human touch

While therapeutic massage has not yet received widespread insurance coverage, many companies and individuals have found it to be a cost-effective form of health maintenance and justify the cost of massage by a reduction in doctor and hospital visits.

CONTRAINDICATIONS AND LIMITATIONS OF MASSAGE THERAPY

Massage is appropriate for virtually everyone. However, there are some forms of massage that are contraindicated for certain illnesses, injuries, and conditions. It is best to discuss your medical status with the massage therapist prior to the first visit. In some instances, a doctor’s approval may be required before the massage.

Though some types of massage may be inappropriate, there are other options given the wide variety of bodywork available, particularly energy work, such as Reiki. Even the most seriously ill can benefit from caring, nurturing touch.

Massage is best used in conjunction with modern medicine, and not as an “alternative” to proper medical care. As a massage therapist, I do not diagnose illness or disease or any other disorder, nor do I prescribe medical treatment or pharmaceuticals. Massage can be an excellent complement to medical treatment of conditions such as:

Asthma
Irritable bowel syndrome
Anxiety
Muscle strains & sprains
Arthritis
Poor circulation
Back pain
PMS/Menopause
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Psoriasis/Skin conditions
Chronic fatigue syndrome
Repetitive stress injuries
Depression
Sinusitis
Fibromyalgia
Sleep disorders & insomnia
Headaches & migraines
TMJ syndrome

Despite the best medical and complementary care, some health problems do persist. Sometimes a change in occupation or lifestyle might be necessary to alleviate symptoms. Ultimately, we are responsible for our own health and wellbeing. I believe that all healing is self-healing. I am not a healer - I can only facilitate and support the healing processes of others.

What to Expect Before. During, and After Your Massage

BEFORE:

· You will be asked to fill out a medical history form.

· Please remove all jewelry.

· Ladies may wish to apply makeup after the treatment rather than before.

· I suggest that you refrain from eating a large meal within an hour before the massage to allow for proper digestion. Rather than being very hungry, I recommend a light snack.

· Most of the massage techniques involve the application of oil. Let me know if you are allergic to any oils or extracts (such as those made from nuts) so that I may offer a substitute. Also, if you would prefer not to get oil or lotion around your neck or hair, let me know beforehand.

· I recommend removing all garments, within your own comfort level.

· A draping towel or sheet will be provided for you to cover your body while on the massage table. During the massage, usually only the area of the body being worked on will be undraped.

DURING:

· Many changes occur in your body’s systems during a massage. For example, your body temperature may change or you may drift off to sleep. Please let me know immediately if you experience any discomfort or if the stroke pressure needs to be adjusted.

· Feel free to move your head, arms, legs, etc. to a more comfortable position should the need arise.

· Oil applied during the massage will be wiped off when work on the area is completed.

· Massage is performed on the front and back of the body. I will instruct and assist you when you need to turn over.

AFTER:

· Following the session, you will probably feel very relaxed and even a little sleepy. Some people prefer to “take it easy” after a massage while others experience a surge of energy. You will want to be cautious not to overdo it with activities such as heavy lifting or a vigorous workout.

· Since massage is an exercise performed on your muscles by the therapist, be sure to drink plenty of water.

· There may be some soreness or slight bruising with the deep tissue/sports massage techniques for up to 48 hours. Also, athletes should allow 48 hours after a sports massage treatment before doing a sports event (except pre-event massage).

· If you have any concerns or questions, please contact me.

OFFICE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Ethics : I will strictly follow the Code of Ethics from the National Certification Board of Massage Therapists and the American Massage Therapy Association. Refer to Massage Therapy Ethics.

New Clients Before the initial treatment, a free consultation and assessment are required. You will need to fill out a medical history form. Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to a scheduled first-time appointment.

Feedback: Client feedback during the session is crucial to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of the client. Notify the therapist immediately if any discomfort is experienced. Also, clients under the influence of drugs which impair their ability to give proper feedback (including alcohol) will be refused.

Tardiness: If you arrive late for a scheduled session you will receive massage for the remaining time, unless some accommodation can be made.Hygiene: Both the therapist and clients are required to follow proper hygiene etiquette. Due to health and safety regulations, the therapist reserves the right to refuse treatment due to improper hygiene.

Alcohol : Alcohol and massage do not mix. The therapist reserves the right to refuse treatment if intoxication is suspected.

MASSAGE THERAPY ETHICS

Ethical Practice: Massage therapists shall act in a manner that justifies public trust and competence, enhances the reputation of the profession, and safeguards the interest of individual clients.

1. Provide treatment only when there is reasonable expectation that it will be advantageous to the client. The therapist will acknowledge the limitations of and contraindications for massage and refer clients to appropriate health professionals.

2. Safeguard the confidentiality of all client information, unless disclosure is required by law, court order, or absolutely necessary for the protection of the public. Therapists will respect the inherent worth of all persons and refuse to unjustly discriminate against clients or other ethical health professionals. They have a sincere commitment to provide the highest quality of care to those who seek their professional service.

3. Respect the client’s right to refuse, modify, or terminate treatment, at any time. Client’s boundaries with regard to privacy, disclosure, exposure, emotional expression, beliefs, and reasonable expectations of professional behavior will be respected.

4. Provide draping and treatment in a way that ensures the safety, comfort, and privacy of the client.

5. Exercise the right to refuse to treat any person or part of the body for just and reasonable cause.

6. Shall not engage in any sexual conduct or activities with a client for any reason.

7. Represent their qualifications honestly, including education and professional affiliations, and accurately inform clients, other health care practitioners, and the public of the scope and limitations of their discipline. They will provide only those services which they are qualified to perform within their legal scope of practice.

8. Respect the contribution and expertise of colleagues in massage therapy and other disciplines as essential to excellent health care.

9. Avoid any interest, activities or influences which might conflict with their obligation to act in the best interest of their clients and profession.

10. Follow all policies, guidelines, regulations, codes, and requirements promulgated by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and the American Massage Therapy Association.