What can Massage Therapy do for you?

By Mimi Barre

Can a non-invasive, drug-free technique really help with the body's ills and aliments? Or is massage therapy simply an elegant, pampering, feel-good luxury? Mimi Barre, owner of International Day Spa in Redlands, California, states that massage therapy can provide you with true health benefits while you relax. Numerous medical studies show that massage increases blood circulation, toning of muscles, stimulation of lymphatic action, and increase in range of motion. Massage can decrease pain associated with arthritis, pregnancy, fibromyalgia, sciatica, muscle fatigue and other aches and pains.

As a stress release, massage is unequaled. Studies since the 1920's have proven the dramatic healing powers of touch. Infants who are not touched enough die of marasmus. Massage offers safe, nurturing touch that benefits your body, soul, and spirit. After a one hour session you will feel strengthened, renewed, relaxed but energized.

Peggy Powers R.N. relates cases of dramatic relief from headaches, lower back pain, and general malaise when patients receive massage therapy. Connie Doyle, Sports Therapist, indicates that pre and post event bodywork is necessary to warm and stretch muscles properly and to work the lactic acid from the muscles to prevent stiffness and pain.

Massage Therapist, Amanda Mazich, feels that various massage techniques will help people in different ways. The best- known stress relieving, relaxing massage is the Swedish/American. This employs kneading and long, soothing strokes. Deep Tissue and Sports work focus on particular muscle groups that are sore. Acupressure and Shiatsu deal with trigger points that help release tense muscles when pressure is applied to the points. Pregnancy massage helps ease back and leg pains, alleviates stress on weight-bearing joints and muscles, and helps prepare the mother-to-be for labor. Aromatherapy utilizes essential oils to elicit a positive change. The aromas have a strong physical healing action and profound subconscious effects on the emotions: comforting, elevating, and soothing. Foot, hand, and ear Reflexology aid the body by working on points that "reflect" other parts of the body. For example, the big toe is associated with the head. So when you have a tension headache, if you rub your big toe, the pain may subside.

To find a professional massage therapist, ask for a referral from your family physician, chiropractor, osteopath, or personal trainer. Check the therapist's credentials. What training and licensing does the therapist have? What is the reputation of the business? Does the business offer ease of booking an appointment to fit your schedule? Is the business open evenings and weekends?

For your health's sake, you deserve the finest care that is available.