subject: Defeat Stress And Relieve Chronic Pain Using Massage Therapy [print this page] In these stressful times, the tension and pressure of everyday life has more and more people turning to the rejuvenating benefits of massage therapy. And they are finding relief in the form of better overall health and a feeling of true well being at the hands of a trained massage therapist.
Long publicized for its rejuvenating and relaxing advantages over similar forms of healing, the art of massage therapy has been around for thousands of years. The friction caused by the pressure and rubbing applied to various parts of the body has been proven to reduce joint pain and improve circulation. There are over 250 different massage therapy techniques that therapists can use to hone in on different parts of the human body to improve the performance of our nervous system, circulation, etc.
The list of mental and physical benefits of regular massage therapy is extensive; here are just a few:
Relief from chronic pain;
Mental relaxation resulting in improved concentration;
Better skin tone;
Physical relaxation resulting in sounder sleep;
Lower heart rate and blood pressure;
Reduction in stress and tension-related headaches.
With so many different massage therapy techniques to choose from, many therapists use a combination to treat the same person. By stroking and kneading their clients' bodies - along with the use of stimulating and soothing oils and lotions - many massage therapy fans are reporting an increase in energy as well.
There are few treatments available today that can effectively manage the tension and stress you may be experiencing, but massage therapy is proven to be one of them. By including it in your regular health regimen, you will be able to enjoy the maximum benefits it offers. After someone suffers injury or surgery, massage therapy has been known to provide a faster and more comfortable rehabilitation process. It is also being used in conjunction with programs designed to help clients stop smoking and in the treatment of symptoms associated with such conditions as infertility, depression and anxiety.
More good news is that massage therapy appears to have few risks or side effects, IF it is performed by a properly-trained therapist. A side effect of massage therapy may include temporary discomfort or slight pain, but the positive results overshadow any risk involved.
So you're ready to include massage therapy into your ongoing healthy-body program; as you do, keep the following in mind.
Research, research, research your therapist to review their credentials and determine their level of experience.
Ask your doctor if massage therapy complements your existing health regimen.
Before beginning a massage therapy program, consult your doctor to determine how massage therapy can complement any preexisting conditions you may currently be receiving treatment for.
Many don't realize that massage therapy is also used in the treatment of the following common health concerns:
Sports injuries;
Fibromyalgia;
Carpal tunnel syndrome;
Bronchitis;
Allergies/asthma;
Depression/anxiety.
Many companies - both on a national and local level - are offering massage therapy as part of their benefits package. Talk to your employer to determine if they might consider doing so as well. Whether seeking fast, dependable relief from the stress and tension of everyday life, or help with a physical disorder, massage therapy could be the answer you need.
