Learn More About Massage Therapy
"Anyone wishing to study medicine must master the art of massage."
~ Hippocrates
Background of Massage
Massage is popular around the world. It's origins date back before 2000 BC. It is part of complimentary medicine. It is increasingly being recommended during the course of standard treatment for a variety of medical conditions including:
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Anxiety
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Fibromyalgia
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Stress
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Headaches
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Insomnia
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Soft tissue strain/injury
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TMJ (Temporomandibular Joints)
Massage has effects on all systems of the body. It can lower blood pressure, improve circulation, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
Benefits of Massage
Massage Therapy is a manual manipulation of soft tissues to enhance a persons health and wellbeing. Soft tissue includes: muscle, facia and skin.
Massage Therapy has two effects:
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Physiological: Decreased blood pressure and heart rate. Changes in hormones and neurotransmitter levels. Increased range of motion around a joint.
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Psychological: Decreased anxiety and stress levels. A heightened sense of wellbeing.
Our body wants to maintain homeostasis.
Massage and The Pain Cycle
Pain cycle is initiated when painful stimuli causes muscles to contract. If muscle contraction is sustained, then tissue can become ischemic from reduced blood flow. Due to the lack of oxygen available to cells, this can increase metabolic waste and thus, may perpetuate pain.
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Massage increases circulation, helping to bring oxygen back to the area as well as improving lymphatic circulation, which can help break the pain cycle.
