Massage therapy is the therapeutic manipulation of the soft tissue in order to promote general improvement in health including stress reduction, improved sleep, and relief of muscular pain. Throughout human history, massage therapy was one of the earliest methods of relieving pain. There are many types of techniques involved in massage therapy. Classical massage (also called Swedish) is the core of most massage training programs. Other styles of massage include sports massage and deep tissue massage. Massage therapy is thought to improve the circulation of the blood and lymph. Some therapists place an emphasis on the psychological aspect of treatment by incorporating calmness into the therapy sessions. The goal of most massage therapy treatments is to alleviate pain, to improve function, movement, and posture, and to aid the psychotherapeutic process.
Massage therapy is regulated in most states and this regulation requires massage therapists to obtain licensing or certification by graduating from an approved massage therapy program. Some massage therapists also elect to obtain certification from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork by meeting specific educational requirements, undergo a background check, and pass an examination.
Massage therapy has been clinically studied for treatment of several types of pain conditions and for complementary treatment of stress reduction, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and quality of life in patients with chronic medical conditions. The risk of harmful effects from massage therapy has been shown to be low. However, it is important for the patient to share the entire medical history with the massage therapist to determine if one has a condition in which massage therapy could possibly cause serious side effects, if a specific area of the body needs to be avoided, or if deep tissue massage should be avoided.
DISCLAIMER: Persons having conditions and/or receiving treatments that may pose a risk to participating in complementary therapies should obtain medical clearance from their physician prior to partaking in these services. Please consult your medical physician if you have any condition or concern that might place you at risk for harm.
Massage Therapy
