Massage Therapy

Massage may be defined as manipulation of the tissues of the body for therapeutic purposes. The word itself is taken from a root meaning "to knead" or "to handle". Massage is one of the easiest ways of attaining and maintaining good health, and it is something we all do naturally.

General massage causes an immediate increase in the red blood cell count and hemoglobin that is transient but has a tendency to be more prolonged with repetition. Massages produce muscular relaxation in patients with muscle twitching and spasm General massage may last from 45 minutes to an hour. Frequency of treatment may range from daily to twice weekly. The dosage and frequency of the massage are based entirely on the individual patient's condition. For centuries, massage has been recognized for its healing properties. Modern medicine has proven massage to help in the following ways:

Skeletal System:

• Correct posture and body balance is maintained.
• Muscular tension, which eventually causes structural problems, is reduced.
• Expels waste matter from muscles, partially compensating for lack of exercise.
• Tone is restored to flaccid muscles, partially compensating for inactivity due to of illness or injury.
• Muscle adhesions from injury are eliminated or prevented.
• Flexibility and joint strength is increased.

Nervous System:

The nervous system can be either sedated or stimulated, depending on the technique used. The nervous system can be balanced, thereby affecting all the systems of the body.

Circulatory System:

• The supply of oxygen and nutrients to cells throughout the body is increased. Blood circulation is improved.
• Strain on the heart is eased through the normal return of blood to this vital organ, especially in cases of forced inactivity due to illness or injury.
• Lymph is moved efficiently throughout the body, strengthening the immune system and eliminating toxic waste.
  

Respiratory System:

• Breathing patterns are improved.
• Long-term respiratory difficulties such as asthma and bronchitis are relived.

Digestive System:

• Waste products are pushed out of the system, maintaining regularity and relieving constipation.
• Spastic colon is relieved.

Urinary System:

The kidneys are massaged, thereby cleansing the blood and toning the entire system. Swelling is reduced due to elimination of fluids.

Muscular System:

• Relaxes and stimulates muscles.
• Reduces fibrosis in muscles.
• Relieves soreness and stiffness.