Massage therapy is a way to increase circulation to tense, strained muscles and other soft tissue. The belief behind the treatment is improved circulation and relaxation lead to better health and well-being.
Massage therapy can be used to increase blood flow, relax muscles, relieve stress and revitalize the body. The method of massage used depends on each patient’s
goals. It may include vigorous kneading and rubbing or it may be a more subtle, gentle touch, such as light tapping. Massage therapy may be done using a wide range of techniques. The type of massage you choose depends on the massage therapist’s training as well as your preference.
The basic philosophy of massage therapy
is based on the concept of aiding the ability of the body to
heal itself. Massage is aimed at achieving or increasing
health and well being. The benefits of massage are
attributed to its effects on the musculoskeletal,
circulatory and lymphatic, nervous, and other bodily
systems. It also benefits the mental and emotional states of
the individual.
First think about your goals. What do you expect from massage therapy? How do you believe it may help you? Answering these questions can help you decide if massage therapy is right for you. Asking a massage therapist some of these questions may also help.
- What is your training?
- How long have you been practicing?
- What massage techniques do you use?
- Have you treated problems like mine?
- What can I expect during a typical visit?
- How long will treatment take?
- How much will it cost?
- Will I need to undress?
increases
circulation
can lower blood
pressure
reduce stress
and anxiety
relieves muscle
tension and soreness
can help prevent
injuries for people who exercise or participate in sports
can help
alleviate pain and stiffness to people who have arthritis,
MS, Fibromyalgia, and other diseases and disorders
• Swedish Massage: Long strokes and kneading motions to relax muscles.
• Sports Massage: Various techniques to enhance athletic performance and aid
recovery after exertion.
• Pressure Point Therapy: Pressure applied to targeted points that are thought to
release the body’s own healing energy.
• Neuromuscular (Trigger Point Therapy): Targeted pressure to specific points to release muscle counteraction, improve
circulation and aid in pain management.
• Reflexology: Targeted pressure to specific points on the feet, believed to
stimulate and relax the associated areas of the body.
• Pregnancy Massage: Gentle, noninvasive massage specifically designed to treat a pregnant woman’s problem areas.
Some states license massage therapists, issuing minimum training guidelines. But you choose therapists who are certified or licensed. Look for a CMT, LMT or RMT designation after their
names.
When seeking complementary care, stay in close contact with your medical doctor. Ideally, you, your doctor and your complementary care provider will
work as a team. Together, you can ensure the care you receive is right for you and one type of care does not adversely affect another.
- Could massage therapy injure me or interfere with my medical treatment?
- What professional experience have you had working with massage therapists?
- Can you recommend a qualified massage therapist?
Institute of
Integrative Medicine
Windber Medical Center
600 Somerset Avenue,
Windber PA 15963
• Jeanne Brinker RN, BSN, Director of Institute of
Integrative Medicine Tel: (814) 467-3000 or E-mail:
jbrinke@conemaugh.org
Healing Through Touch