Introduction To Massage Therapy

Introduction To Massage Therapy - Your First Visit
By Sylvain Tremblay

There are different types of massages. Swedish, Shiatsu, Californian, hot stone massage are an example to name a few.

There are tremendous benefits to be achieved through regular massage therapy treatments from a Registered Massage Therapist.

Whether your need is to have a moment of relaxation, reduce muscle tension or attain relief from chronic pain, a therapeutic massage can enhance your overall sense of emotional and physical well-being as well as your quality of life.

Massage therapy benefits people of all ages. While it benefits the injured, the ill and the stressed, the strength of massage therapy in preventing illness and conditions before they develop cannot be overlooked. Massage therapy can be used in the treatment of both acute and chronic stages of conditions.

What exactly are the benefits of receiving massage or bodywork treatments?

Here are some conditions that will be helped with a professional massage:

Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion.
Assist with shorter, easier labour for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital stays.
Ease medication dependence.
Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow - the body's natural defence system.
Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.
Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts. Improve the condition of the body's largest organ - the skin.
Increase joint flexibility.
Lessen depression and anxiety.
Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks.
Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.
Reduce post surgery adhesions and swelling.
Reduce spasms and cramping.
Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.
Release endorphins - amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller.
Relieve migraine pain.

In fact, message therapy will work on different body systems: circulatory and respiratory, lymphatic, muscle systems are among the ones that will be touched by the massage.

What happens on the first visit?

On the first visit you will complete a confidential health history as part of your assessment.
This is important as the Massage Therapist needs to know if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications.

The Massage Therapist will listen to your concerns, assess your individual needs as well as other factors that may be contributing to your injury (lifestyle, nutritional status, etc.).

The Massage Therapist will then develop a treatment plan with you to ensure you receive appropriate treatment that will help you return, as much as possible, to your normal activities.

How often should I have a massage therapy?

Some people believe that one treatment is enough; however, massage therapy is most beneficial in acute conditions when used over a series of treatments and then followed up with maintenance or preventive treatments.

Through mutual discussion, your Massage Therapist can help you establish a program that fits your physical needs and lifestyle. Your Massage Therapist is most interested in your recovery and in the maintenance of your health.

Any recommendation for further treatment is being made by a qualified health professional and is made with your utmost care in mind.

Sylvain Tremblay is a massage therapist after being a paramedic for 13 years. He now owns is clinic and spa center named Aqua Spa.

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