Introduction to Massage Therapy: Everything you need to know about it
Massage treatment has a long and illustrious history in many civilizations. Nowadays, a range of various types of massage treatments is used for a variety of health-related goals. Massage therapy is frequently categorized as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in Canada. In fact, it was one of the most popular CAMs used by Canadians in 2016, 44%. States, even though it has some traditional applications. This fact sheet discusses massage treatment in general and recommends additional resources.
Introduction to massage therapy
• There is a shortage of scientific evidence supporting massage treatment. Scientists are still unsure of the physiological changes that occur during a massage if they affect health, and how. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is funding research to address these problems and determine the most beneficial massage uses.
• If massage treatment is performed correctly and by a skilled massage practitioner, it appears to pose few severe dangers.
• Inform your health care professionals about any alternative medicine practices you engage in. Give them a comprehensive picture of how you manage your health with the best massage therapy in Calgary. This will aid in the coordination and safety of care.
What is the history of massage therapy?
Massage treatment dates to the early days of civilization. Massage is mentioned in ancient Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and Arabic texts and in Egypt, Greece (Hippocrates described medicine as “the art of rubbing”), and Rome.
During the Renaissance, massage became popular throughout Europe. Massage therapy was brought to the United States in the 1850s by two American physicians studied in Sweden. It quickly gained popularity and was marketed for several health objectives in Canada as well. Massage fell out of favor in the United States throughout the 1930s and 1940s due to scientific and technical advancements in medical care. Massage regained popularity in the 1970s, particularly among athletes.
What are the health benefits of massage therapy?
According to the 2007 National Health Interview Study, which included a comprehensive survey of Americans’ use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), an estimated 18 million adults and 700,000 children in the United States had had massage treatment in the preceding year.
Massage is used for a range of health-related goals, including pain relief, sports injury rehabilitation, stress reduction, relaxation enhancement, anxiety and depression management, and overall wellness.
What is massage therapy, and what are the types of massage?
Massage therapy is made up of a wide variety of treatments (see box for examples). In general, therapists work with muscles and soft tissues of the body, particularly of the upper and lower body. Most of them employ their fingers and hands, but their forearms, elbows, and feet can also be used.
Types of Massage Therapy: A Few Examples
The therapist employs lengthy strokes, kneading, deep, circular motions, vibration, and tapping in Swedish massage. Sports massage is comparable to Swedish massage but is tailored particularly for athletes’ requirements. Several additional examples include full body massage and trigger point massage, which concentrates on myofascial trigger points — painful muscular “knots” that can induce symptoms elsewhere in the body when pushed.
How does massage therapy affect the body?
Massage therapy may also improve circulation, which increases oxygen and nutrition supply to muscle cells and aids in removing waste products. Massage’s circulation effects may be productive in preventing some inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or edema.
Massage therapy is also believed to elicit a relaxation response that reduces heart rate, respiration rate, and blood pressure, strengthens the immune system, and alleviates the physical impacts of stress.
What do massage therapists do in treating patients?
Massage therapists’ practice in several venues, including private practices, hospitals, nursing homes, studios, and sports and fitness facilities. Additionally, some travel to patients’ homes or places of employment. They typically strive to create a tranquil, calming environment.
Typically, a best massage therapist may inquire about a patient’s symptoms, medical history, and intended outcomes. Additionally, they may evaluate by touch, locate sore or tense regions, and determine the appropriate amount of pressure to apply.
Typically, the patient rests on a table, dressed loosely (covered with a sheet, except for the massaged area). The therapist may apply oil or lotion to the skin to prevent friction. Occasionally, individuals undergo massage therapy while seated in a chair. A massage session might be brief, or it can last an hour or longer.
Who provides massage therapy?
We offer a comprehensive range of massage therapy services, from Swedish massage and trigger point release to lymphatic fluid, all of which are designed to address a variety of concerns, ranging from acute yet straightforward issues to complex and chronic conditions, including but not consist of the following:
- Muscle or joint pain
- Neck or back problems
- Headaches
- Blood circulation or tissue concerns
- Posture improvements
- Stress or anxiety
- Sport or dance injuries
- Impaired range of motion
- Muscle tension
- Many more
Our licensed massage therapist in Calgary want you to take an active role in your health or recovery process. They collaborate closely with you to help you regain your capacity to move after illness, disease, accident, or prolonged periods of inactivity.
Also Read: Understanding Physiotherapy: How it works and what all it can heal?