What is Massage Therapy?
Massage is one of the oldest, simplest forms of therapy and is a system of stroking, pressing and kneading different areas of the body in order to relieve pain at the same time relax, stimulate, and tone the body.
Massage Therapy Services at Applied Medical, Inc
- Swedish Massage
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Hot Stone Massage
- Chair Massage
- Geriatric Massage
- Pregnancy Massage
- Sports Massage
Some Benefits of Massage
- Relaxing
- Soothing
- Healing
- Eases Tension
- Relieves Stiffness and Pain
- Improves Breathing
- Improves Circulation
- Enhances Well-Being
- Overall Rejuvenation
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is the style that comes to mind when most people think about massage. Developed in Stockholm centuries ago, it is the most common type of message performed today.
The goal of relaxing the entire body is accomplished by rubbing the muscles with long gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart. Additional techniques include circular pressure applied by the hands and palms, firm kneading, percussion like tapping, bending and stretching. Lotion is often used to reduce friction and stimulate the skin.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue Massage is similar to Swedish Massage, but is used to target knots and release chronic muscle tension. Other benefits include reducing inflammation and helping to eliminate scar tissue.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot Stone Massage is a style of massage therapy in which water-treated stones are placed on key points on the body. The massage therapist may also hold the stones and use them to massage certain areas of the body.
Chair Massage
Chair Massage sessions last around 10 to 20 minutes. A stiff neck, aching wrists, and shoulders are symptoms of workplace fatigue. Chair Massage counters circulatory problems related with office work and provides an appreciated break for employees. Sitting in a massage chair opens up the back muscles, relieves strain on the neck and provides a break for eyes looking at a computer monitor for lengthy periods of time. Chair massages enhance circulation and help return energy levels back to what they should be.
Geriatric Massage
Geriatric Massage uses the same basic massage techniques as general massage. It is however, tailored to the specific health conditions and needs of the elderly population. Geriatric Massage usually lasts 30 minutes, consisting of gentle hand motions, stretching of shoulders, legs and feet. The table should always be warmed for elderly patients and assistance may be needed when getting on and off the table.
A regular weekly massage is the best prevention to most of the problems of aging. Most geriatric patients should have doctor's permission to ensure they are in good health to receive therapy. Geriatric massage could be applied by using a chair or even having the client stay in their wheelchairs.
Benefits of Geriatric Massage
- Relaxation
- Improvement in lymphatic flow
- Alleviation of headache pain
- Eases tension
- Improves the quality of sleep
- Improves breathing
- Improves circulation
- Relief of stress, anxiety, depression
- Speeds up healing
- Enhances well-being & self-esteem
- Overall rejuvenation
Pregnancy Massage
Pregnancy Massage reduces anxiety, improves mood, promotes better sleep, reduces back pain, and promotes fewer complications in labor. Scientific findings indicate that women who received massages during pregnancy, had babies with fewer postnatal complications and a lower rate of prematurity.
Sports Massage
Sports Massage is a special form of massage and is typically used before, during, and after athletic events. The purpose of the massage is to prepare the athlete for peak performance, to drain away fatigue, to relieve swelling, to reduce muscle tension, to promote flexibility and to prevent injuries.