What is a Massage?
Massage is a term describing a variety of techniques using the hands, mechanical or electrical apparatus to stimulate or soothe soft tissues of the body for therapeutic purposes.
How does Massage work?
Massage works by kneading and stroking muscles to relax them, and uses friction to stimulate soft tissues. This therapy can increase blood and lymph circulation while breaking up scar tissue between muscle fibers.
What does massage feel like?
Therapeutic massage and its effects vary with each individual. Clothing is usually removed from the area treated and the patient should be relaxed and comfortable. A lubricating oil or powder is used to reduce friction during circular stroking and compression of soft tissue.
What are the benefits of massage therapy?
Physical benefits:
- Helps relieve stress and aid relaxation
- Helps relieve muscle tension and stiffness
- Fosters faster healing of strained muscles and sprained ligaments; reduces pain and swelling; reduces formation of excessive scar tissue
- Reduces muscle spasms
- Provides greater joint flexibility and range of motion
- Enhances athletic performance
- Promotes deeper and easier breathing
- Improves circulation of blood and movement of lymph fluids
- Reduces blood pressure
- Helps relieve tension headaches and eyestrain
- Strengthens the immune system
- Improves posture
- Enhances health and nourishment of skin
- Reduces risk of future injury
Well-being and Mental Benefits:
- Improves overall well-being
- Fosters peace of mind
- Promotes a relaxed state of mental alertness
- Helps relieve mental stress
- Improves ability to monitor signs of stress and respond appropriately
- Enhance capacity for calm thinking and creativity
- Satisfies needs for caring-nurturing touch
- Increases awareness of mind-body connection
What should I expect during my massage?
To insure your comfort, your body will be properly covered and draped during your massage. Relaxing music will be playing and there will not be too much conversation. Depending on the massage, oil or cream may be used. The massage should not be painful so it is important to let the therapist know if the pressure is too firm/deep and also if it is too light.
How often do I need a massage?
If you are seeing one of the chiropractors this may be discussed in your treatment plan. Typically a massage once per month is recommended but this does not apply to everyone. Some people need massage more frequently, depending on their condition and the reason they are coming for massage therapy.