Old-World Healing Technique
As advances in medicine continue it’s very interesting to see an ancient technique like massage therapy come into the mainstream focus, a proven method of health.
Ancient Origins
Massage therapy is more than just a back massage. It has roots in ancient cultures (as far back as 3,000 years ago in China); due to its extensive benefits, it has become a mainstay of many mainstream medical and physical treatments. Massage is no longer considered “quack” therapy, and is gaining in popularity by the day.
Massage, in its most general sense, refers to rubbing and manipulation of the body. It can be done on the entire body, or just a targeted area like the back.
Basic techniques are: applying pressure, stroking, kneading, tapping/light thumping, compression, and the manipulation of joints, muscles, and soft tissues.
These techniques are used in different ways to make up more than 230 types of massage therapy. Some different names are: Swedish massage, touch therapy, bodywork, and acupressure. Most therapists specialize in a specific type, while others will perform a basket of different types of therapy. The therapist will come up with a unique session to fit the specific needs of the client.
Massage therapists will use specific products to provide benefits to the client. These include tables, oils, creams, and lotions, as well as aromatherapies. The most effective tool of all used during a massage is the skilled set of hands of the therapist.
Massage has been shown to provide medical and physical benefits. Studies have proven that it can help a wide range of illness ranging from stress related illness to circulatory dysfunctions. As medical professionals and individuals have increasingly come to realize that pharmaceuticals are not the only option for treating ailments and injuries, the demand for skilled therapists has grown dramatically. Massage therapy is now recognized as an independent health treatment.
The Advantages
Who would not want to enjoy a one hour, feel good, massage? Massage therapy carries a moderate expense and so it is important to learn more about if it is right for you.
While going to a therapist for simply a relaxing massage is good enough, it is important to note that massage therapy can also provide relief for chronic back pain. Likewise, clients also seek services to supplement and enhance both modern and alternative medical treatments.
Whatever the reason is, massage therapy can treat not only specific ailments such as lower right back pain, but can also treat a wide range of other conditions.
Some benefits are:
- Mood improvement
- Energy increase
- Stimulation/relief of muscle pain due to lack of activity (often caused by sedentary jobs)
- Improved ability to deep breathe
- Lower levels of anxiety
- Lower risk of depression
- Joint flexibility improved
- Eases pain of childbirth
- Lower instances of stress-related illness which includes tension headaches
How Long Until I Start Noticing an Improvement in My Quality of Life?
Even a one-time visit to the massage therapist can net excellent benefits; but for the most lasting benefits regular sessions are recommended. Regular scheduled therapy ensures that the body continues to enjoy the increase in circulatory health and relief of muscle tension which directly contribute to the benefits from the therapy. Over a longer period of time, the amount of days you save of missed work due to back pain will offset the costs associated with going to a massage therapist.
Edward Mullen is a back pain guru and critic on back pain treatments. When are you going to get tired enough of back pain to do something about it? Do something about your back pain right now, go to http://www.nomorechronicbackpain.com
Tags: back pain, back pain relief, massage therapy
