Massages are as popular today as they have ever been. However, these days, you can pick lots of options on how your massage can be done, including whether it is done by human beings or machines.

Lots of individuals use massage to relax themselves especially after work. Massage is known to be the simplest type of remedial care and it's very effective in relieving pain. Massage therapy is the use of touch to work on with muscles and soft tissues in a person's body. It's being performed for several reasons together with the treatment of painful ailments, reducing stress, decompressing an overworked muscles, rehabilitating injuries commonly to sports injuries as well as promoting overall health.

Most clients seek massage often because of its remedial benefits and the relaxation it gives. Though there are lots of massage therapists, but some people prefer instead to own a massage chair. Massage chairs are becoming popular because it can give various kind of massage that some massage therapist can't give.

Almost all individuals would like to have an everyday massage and going to massage center or hiring massage therapist can be costly and not all individuals can afford it. In such cases, the best solution is to own a massage chair. These chairs are made from many different manufacturers throughout the world, and come in a wide variety of price ranges. They are also increasingly energy efficient and most models do not need lots of electrical power anymore.

Many people are very happy to have this modern day convenience in their home. Although they may seem to cost a lot up front, in the end they can actually save you a lot of money when compared to seeing a human therapist on a regular schedule. You can use the money that you may have previously used on paying for your massage sessions on other necessary things instead after you have purchased your chair.

But not only can they save you money - they are also very convenient to use. You will be able to use your own chair anytime you feel the need for a massage. You can use your massage chair while watching TV, reading magazines or books, drinking coffee or even talking with friends or family on the phone. Instead of spending time commuting back and forth from the massage center, you can use that time on other important things.

Another thing many individuals prefer regarding using chairs is the level of privacy it allows. Lots of individuals do not want to be naked together with their therapist and some individuals feel uncomfortable going to massage center. If you are this kind of person, then a massage chair suit you best. Owning a massage chair allows you to massage your body at home in a private and comfortable surrounding.

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Massage therapy is not based on sketchy science that only works for a handful of clients. In truth, it is based on proven medical principles. Almost everyone can benefit from the talented hands of a masseuse. This is how those therapies work and what you can expect to happen as a result of them.

We need this sort of treatment based on the way our bodies receive energy from the foods we consume. Each time we put tension in our muscles, they use part of the food we consume in order to contract. When everything is working properly, the segments of our nourishment they burn are the sugar parts. While in the blood stream, those sugar parts are called glucose.

Consuming glucose for energy makes a byproduct build up in the muscle fibers. This byproduct is called lactic acid. The more your muscle tissues contract the more lactic acid you will produce. As you make more and more acid, the tissues burn more intensely. The burning sensation lets you know they are contracting vigorously.

Many people experience that burning feeling after or during strenuous exercise. This is not the only time lactic acid can build up in your body. Whenever you tense a muscle for a long period of time, you might feel it burning. Sitting in one position for too long can cause that chain of events to happen. Working at a computer with your shoulders hunched can cause you to overproduce the acid. Studying at a table with your neck bent in the same position for too long can also bring on the burn.

People regularly experience aches in their muscle tissue from tensing it for an extended period. A masseuse can help relieve the suffering. They are instructed in methods that cause the lactic acid to leave the muscle fibers that created it.

It is useful to envision a masseuse as a muscle fiber plumber. She encourages the final product of glucose consumption to exit the muscles. As the rubs the fibers with her hands and fingers, she makes the acid flow out and into the bloodstream. After she is finished, you might feel relief in muscles that did not seem that painful before she started!

No matter how good a masseuse is her technique can only do half of the work needed for acid removal. If you allow it to remain in the blood stream, you will soon find yourself aching again. Before the end of the day, you will be ready for another massage. To prevent that burning sensation from returning, drink between six and eight glasses of water. Doing so will move the acid out of the blood stream and will keep the painful sensation away.

Massage therapy helps to alleviate tension in muscles. Muscles feel painful and tense as a result of too much lactic acid built up in them. A masseuse releases the acid by rubbing her hands and fingers into the muscles. Drinking water after treatment removes the byproduct from the blood stream, helping you feel better all day.

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Physical Therapists are health care professionals who treat patients of all ages. They are called upon when a patient has a hard time to move around because of illnesses or injuries. These injuries may include sprains, strains, neck injuries, arthritis in older patients, certain strokes and conditions like Spina and Bifida. The therapist examines each case and provides lifestyle changes, diet changes and drugs that would help the person regain their ability to move around and go back to the normal way of life. Through therapy the patient will be able to keep mobility and motor skills. The Therapy also reduces pain and helps the patient gain a healthier and an active lifestyle, the therapist synergies with other physicians to provide a comprehensive recovery process.

The Doctor of Physical Therapy is a three to four year long doctorate program usually taken after a four year long bachelor's degree and requires a good high standard internship. Vision 2020, a vision of the American Physical Therapy Association, that states: "By 2020, physical therapy will be provided by physical therapists who are doctors of physical therapy, recognized by consumers and other health care professionals as the practitioners of choice to whom consumers have direct access for the diagnosis of, interventions for, and prevention of impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities related to movement, function, and health."

The entry level doctorate degree is the degree that most of the Physical Therapist has. Getting into a good school would require you to have to complete a set of required coursework, a good level of extracurricular activities and social services, a good score on a standardized graduate examination such as the GRE, a set of well written recommendation letters and a sound academic background in science. You will most probably be asked to have at least 12 credits of Chemistry, a semester of Physics with lab work, two courses on Psychology and lastly a good semester on Biology. Course pre-requisite may defer from school to school.

To get a doctorate you will have to complete a basic curriculum which consists of pathology, pharmacology, radiology, anatomy, biology and such as a part of the foundational science courses, you will also have to take multiple courses on behavioral science and courses which include law and ethics, clinical reasoning, business and management sciences. The students will also go in depth into the clinical sciences with courses on neuromuscular, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and integumentory biology. The last part of the course deals with the actual physical therapy courses. Every school has a set of actual physical therapists who guide the students as they look at case studies and also treat patients at the school.

The seven year path to becoming a Physical Therapist is not for the faint hearted, but there is a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow because Physical Therapists are one of the best paid professions with many variations to the degree allowing you to branch out to types of therapist such as sports physical therapy.

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Balinese massage, which traces its roots in Bali, Indonesia is a type of natural therapy which includes the manipulation of the body's meridian through a combination of various massage techniques. Acupressure, aromatherapy massage and reflexology are used by the masseuse during the therapy to address various types of problems both emotionally and physically with a specific technique.

The patient often experiences the satisfying benefits and effects right after the massage therapy. Whole body relaxation may probably be the most common noticeable effect of this type of massage therapy. The body loosens up with every massage strokes and manipulation of each pressure point with the acupressure and reflexology method. The aroma of therapeutic herbs is used specifically in soothing and calming the emotion of the client. Aromatherapy massage is also essential in setting up the mood inside the room which greatly increases the healing capability as well as the relaxing experience of a Balinese massage. Each of the essential oils have their own healing, energizing, and calming effects when applied on the skin, although some of these oils may have negative effects on sensitive skin. Discussing the skin medical history of the patient as well as his or her current condition is vital in preventing this kind of problem from occurring during and after the therapy session. The client may also want to use other clothes as some of these massage oils may leave stains on the cloth.

Balinese massage therapy also includes deep tissue massage which helps relieve the patient from all sorts of muscle pains. This type of therapy not only focuses on the soothing of the body but also aims for the total wellness of the body. Each stroke stimulates the nervous system which enhances the mood of the patient as well as heightens the sense of wellness. Acupressure is known for targeting pressure points which addresses to the corresponding part of the body. As the therapist conducts acupressure techniques with his or her hands, the body loosens up and relaxes with each application of pressure. The main goal of acupressure in this therapy is to regain strength to the weakened muscle groups, relax stiff muscles, and relieve muscle pain. This technique helps in balancing the energy or qi within the body to maintain a healthy physical and mental condition.

Reflexology in a Balinese massage is used to manipulate each part of the body through the hands and feet of the patient. The body benefits with the improvement of blood and oxygen circulation which is attained by unblocking each of their specific pathways for the two to freely flow throughout the body. When these two important supplies needed in the body freely circulates without blockage or shortage in supply, the body works properly and in its optimum performance. The result is a healthy mind and body. Reflexology focuses on the treatment rather than making the body calm down and relax which is the work of aromatherapy in this type of therapeutic massage.

Although this therapy has a great combination that can both heal and sooth the body, it is still best to consult a doctor before trying this alternative medical care.

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Massage therapy bodywork is only one method holistic healers use to help their patients, even in the Texas high country around Austin. Other techniques include relaxation hypnosis and stress relief massage. All of these techniques help relieve stress, promote relaxation, and help with overall well-being. There are many additional benefits in the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual centers. Let's look at these three different techniques and see how that they can help you.

Massage therapy bodywork involves a wide variety of techniques in order to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. Traditional massage therapy is only one component of this. Therapists often integrate aromatherapy with scented oils. They may use acupressure to relieve pain and stiffness in certain areas of the body. They may use a variety of techniques to realign the body into a natural flow. Various forms of massage therapy works release toxins in the muscles and promote the body's immune system. All of this comes together to bring the body back into balance and promote long-term healing and well-being. Relaxation hypnosis is another technique.

Relaxation hypnosis works to promote the minds control over the body. Hypnosis helps to them choose the mind into a deeply relaxed state. The hypnotherapists can give the patient suggestions to encourage relaxation and to get past stress. Various medical studies have shown that cancer patients using hypnosis often have longer periods of remission and respond better to various treatments. These forms of therapy helps alleviate anxiety that helps reduce stress and promotes better sleeping habits. Many people use it to get past the various phobias and weight-loss issues. It is effective for many different medical conditions including asthma, cancer, and diabetes. It works great in combination with stress release massage and massage therapy bodywork.

Stress release massage is another technique that helps reduce tension and stiffness in the body. When you reduce stress, you are less likely to develop chronic conditions or severe illness related to stress. Modern life is extremely stressful for most people. Symptoms of this life often include reduced amounts of sleep, mood issues, and various physical symptoms. Reducing or eliminating the causes of stress is very important. However, stress happens all the time. Using massage to release the stress will promote your health of the long run. Along with massage therapy bodywork and relaxation hypnosis, stress release massage brings a person's health back the balance. When you get everything back into balance, you will feel better physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Why stress when you can relax?

Relaxing with massage therapy bodywork, stress relief massage, or relaxation hypnosis are just three ways to get things under control. All of them are natural methods. That bodes well for your body since you are not putting drugs and medications into it. If you link up with a good holistic healer, they can advance this natural healing with other methods. Hypnotherapy is one option. It can help get past your mental barriers and uncover the real reasons for your stress and anxiety. With the help of a healer, you will need to visit your conventional doctor less often as a result.

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Finding the right massage therapist can be a daunting endeavor, especially if you're new to massage. However, it doesn't have to be intimidating. There are two important aspects to evaluate--qualifications and comfort level. When you keep these elements in mind, you'll soon be on your way to blissful relaxation through the power of massage.

Qualifications

There's a lot more to being a massage therapist than just knowing how to give a nice back rub. To make sure you have an enjoyable, safe experience, you should only receive massage therapy from certified, licensed professionals. This ensures that the massage therapist who is handling your treatment knows how to safely manipulate your muscles without harming you as well as making certain that the facility is clean and run in accordance with state regulations.

There are a variety of different massage techniques, so make certain that the professional you choose is qualified to provide the type of massage you're looking for. Most relaxation and de-stressing treatments fall under the category of Swedish massage, which involves a combination of kneading, tapping, stroking, and otherwise manipulating your muscles to relieve tension. However, there are other types of massage that can be used to treat aches and pains, athletic injuries and more. If you're interested in specialized sports massage, pregnancy massage, or deep-tissue massage, make sure you ask about relevant certifications before you decide on a massage therapist.

Comfort

While certifications and licensing are vital to finding a good masseuse, they aren't everything. Just because a massage therapist is qualified to provide you with the deep-tissue massage you need, doesn't mean that they're necessarily the right person for the job. To fully enjoy your massage experience, you also need to find a massage therapist that you're personally and physically comfortable with. Obviously, you're not going to be able to relax and enjoy the treatment if you're uncomfortable with the individual who is providing it, so shop around! If you're a woman who prefers a female massage therapist for your personal comfort, don't be afraid to speak up. Your comfort is of the utmost importance so be certain to evaluate the more subjective realm of personal comfort as well as qualifications before you select your massage professional.

The best way to find a great massage therapy center in your area is to ask your friends. Most will be more than willing to make a recommendation about a positive massage experience they've had in the past. If you're looking for sports massage or deep-tissue massage to help an injury heal, inquire at your doctor's office. They may frequently work with a particular massage therapist or center. If you're unable to get a recommendation, don't sweat it: the Internet can provide numerous listings for reputable massage therapists in your area.

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Massage therapy is a wonderful and beneficial form of holistic health care. Massage can provide stress relief, muscle tension relief, improve circulation, and the list goes on. But massage can be detrimental to your health if you have certain physical conditions, illnesses, or disease. You can also put your therapist at risk of contracting certain illness or disease if you are in a contagious state of health.

The term "massage contraindication" means you are not able to receive massage, or the massage may be limited to certain areas of your body. When you are contraindicated for a massage it is for your health and safety as well as the massage therapists. Not all contraindications mean that you will never be able to have a massage. There are two types of contraindications: local contraindications and absolute contraindications.

Local Contraindications

Local contraindications are conditions involving a pathology related illness/disease or an acute injury. These conditions mean caution must be exercised and the massage must be adapted to the condition. This is to ensure the safety of both the client and the therapist. For the client, the massage must be adjusted as to ensure it will not spread the condition, or further injure the client. For the therapist, it is to ensure the therapist does not contract the disease.

If you have what is determined to be a local contraindication your therapist may require a doctor's release before he will agree to provide you with a massage. While some local contraindications only require that you and your therapist discuss the condition and tailor the massage accordingly. In either case, it is the therapist that will make the final decision as to whether or not you will be able to receive the massage. This is done to protect your health and safety as well as the massage therapist.

A massage may be adjusted for a local contraindication in several ways. It can mean an area is to be avoided, such a the lower leg of a recently sprained ankle. It can require that the pressure be adjusted during the massage. The position in which the client is lying the massage table is adjusted, such as using a side lying position for pregnant women. It can also mean the time allowed for the massage be adjusted.

Some of the more common local contraindications include, but are not limited to: Abnormal lumps, Ance Vulgaris, athlete's foot, blisters, bruises, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Colitis, Crohn's Disease, Cystitis (Baker's and sebaceous), Decubitus Ulcers, Gouty Arthritis, Graves' Disease, hernia, Hyper and Hypothyroidism, infectious diseases, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, local inflammation, open wounds, Phlebitis, poison ivy - oak - sumac, Shingles, swollen lymph glands, ulcers, unhealed burns (sunburn if not widespread), Varicose Veins, and warts.

The following conditions will require a medical doctors clearance: Acromegaly, Aneurysm, Atherosclerosis, Burns, Cancer, Cerebrovascular accident, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Congestive Heart Failure, Coronary Artery Disease, Hemophelia, Hodgkin's Disease, Kidney Stones, Leukemia, Myasthenia Gravis, Nephrosis, Peritonitis, Polycystic Kidney Disease, and Uremia.

Absolute Contraindications

Absolute contraindications are conditions where you cannot receive a massage. Giving a massage to someone who has an absolute contraindication can result in serious health risks for the client and/or the therapist. Some absolute contraindications can even cause death to the client.

Not all absolute contraindications are permanent; meaning you may have a condition that, once it clears, you can receive a massage. These conditions are typically an illness such as a viral infection. Some conditions are permanent and unfortunately if you have one, you will not be able to receive massage. In either case, as long as the condition is in an acute stage, you will be denied massage therapy.

The following is a list of common, but temporary, absolute contraindications for massage: Chickenpox, Contact Dermatitis (if wide spread), diarrhea (if due to infection), fever, German Measles, Gout (during acute phase), Hepatitis, Hives, High Blood Pressure (unless controlled by medication, diet or exercise) Influenza (the flu), lice, Lupus (during a flare up), measles, Mononucleosis (mono), Mumps, Pneumonia, Ringworm, recent injuries or surgeries, Scabies, and Tonsillitis. This list is not definitive, but a list of the more common conditions that are absolute contraindications. These are all temporary conditions that once they have run their course, you can receive a massage.

The following conditions are a permanent condition that will prevent you from receiving a massage. These are serious conditions and if you receive a massage it can cause further health related problems or even death. Your massage therapist must be informed of these conditions. This is one of the reasons you are required fill out a health history form when you enter a professional massage therapists office.

Some common absolute permanent contraindications (this is not a definitive list): Blood Clots, Cirrhosis of the liver, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), Embolism, Hypertension (unless controlled by medication, diet or exercise), Intestinal obstruction, Kidney failure, Lymphangitis, Myocarditis, Pericarditis, Pulmonary Embolism, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Syncope (fainting), and Tuberculosis.

While massage has many benefits certain conditions warrant caution. If you have a condition that has not been listed here, or you are unclear about whether you can receive massage, talk to your massage therapist and you family doctor. They will both be happy to discuss this with you. Remember, if you are turned down for a massage because of a condition you have, it is because the massage therapist has your best health at interest.

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Shiatsu is from the Japanese word shi meaning finger and atsu meaning pressure. It is characterized by the systematic application of pressure with the fingers, thumbs, palms, elbows, forearms, knees and feet on specific points (tsubos), and areas (meridians) on the body. Unlike acupressure, Shiatsu uses not only the main acupuncture points located on a meridian, but also the spaces in between those points. It does not use typical massage mediums such as oils or creams, and as such can be done through clothing. Shiatsu is traditionally practised on the floor on a thin futon.

The basic premise of Shiatsu is that pressure is applied at a perpendicular angle to the plane of the body and held for approximately 3 to 7 seconds. In many styles of Shiatsu there is a support hand which remains stationary, and a working hand which applies pressure along the meridian. The most common application of pressure is with the palm and thumb. The depth of pressure or weight is gauged according to the client's condition and constitution.

The sustained application of pressure during a Shiatsu treatment activates the mechano-receptor cells in the body and the parasympathetic nervous system, often resulting in a change of brain wave patterns. This allows the body to relax, promotes the smooth flow of blood and qi (ki in Japanese) or vital life force, and activates the natural or innate healing power of the individual.

Shiatsu uses the primal sense of touch along the body's largest organ (skin) to exact change on a cellular level. In doing so, stored traumas and emotional issues can often be released and resolved.

Shiatsu's roots can be traced to China and a style of massage known as Anma. In the 6th century A.D., there was a migration of Buddhism from China to Japan, along with a concurrent migration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, including Anma massage. Anma, the precursor of Shiatsu, underwent considerable refinement in Japan, and flourished during the Edo period (1603-1868).

Shiatsu's popularity was increasing by the 1900s, and underwent further refinements as Japan became more Westernized. Tamai Tempaku wrote Shiatsu Ryoho - Finger Pressure Way of Healing in 1915 and Shiatsu Ho - Finger Pressure Method in 1919. Then in 1925, Tokujiro Namikoshi started the Clinic of Pressure Therapy in Hokkaido and the Japan Shiatsu Institute in 1940. Shiatsu gained official recognition as a treatment modality in 1955, and in 1964 emerged as a form of bodywork distinct from Anma and Swedish massage. It was introduced into Canada in 1971.

The main effect of the modernization of Shiatsu was in the ratio of pressing to rubbing. Anma massage held a ratio of 80% rubbing to 20% pressing. Shiatsu reversed this to 80% pressing and 20% rubbing.

Standards of Practice

The minimum standard of practice for professional Shiatsu therapists is 500 hours. This standard is used in Britain, Europe, Australia and some parts of the U.S. Shiatsu is unregulated in Canada, and there are both longer and shorter programs available. A prospective student should look for things such as course curriculum, experienced instructors, quality of teaching and a supportive learning environment when selecting a school.

Therapeutic Benefits of Shiatsu

Shiatsu can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, pain being the most common. Often pain, particularly in the soft tissues, is treated by Western medicine with muscle relaxants and pain killers. Shiatsu seeks to treat the underlying cause of pain, as well as the symptoms.

In my own practice, I have seen numerous cases of Shiatsu's unique healing properties. One particular client's recovery using Shiatsu was especially rewarding. Several years ago, this client visited me with severe TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain. It was so severe she could not open her mouth fully and was restricted to eating soft, mushy foods. She had been feeling pain in the jaw for about 1-1/2 years, and now she was experiencing severe headaches as well. She had gone to see several specialists who recommended surgery.

Shiatsu done on her neck and shoulders provided considerable relief after just one treatment. By the end of the third treatment all pain and accompanying symptoms were gone. She couldn't believe the results and was now even able to manage a smile! I was especially surprised that the recovery came so quickly, as I had anticipated at least 6 to 10 treatments.

The role of the Shiatsu therapist is to help activate the natural healing and recuperative powers of the patient. Regular treatments are important when there is a chronic condition, but Shiatsu is most effective when used preventively. The cumulative effect of treatments helps to strengthen the immune system, tonify organs, and keep the qi and blood flowing smoothly.

Shiatsu is very old, powerful medicine with its roots at least 5,000 years in the past. Yet it still remains an important and potent way for people to connect with themselves, their health, and their environment in the fast-paced 21st century.

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How many times have been to a massage therapist, a doctors office, even your local mechanic and been told something in a language you don't understand. Even though English was spoken, the words just made no sense to you. Like most people you politely smile, nod your head in agreement and leave wondering just exactly what he meant.

You may have done this because you did not want to look "stupid" in front of the person who was talking to you. You have probably heard this before, but it needs saying again - "There are no stupid questions!" Especially when it comes to your health. If you don't understand what you are being told, ask for it to be repeated in a way that you can understand.

Professional people use a language all their own. Depending on what profession the person belongs to, dictates the language they use. When the professional is dealing with the general public, they sometimes forget that they need to use "laymans" terms in order to be understood. A good professional will take the time to make sure you understand what you are being told. They have to, if they want your business. If they are unwilling to make themselves clear to you, then it might be a good time to seek another opinion.

In the massage profession, a therapist is taught the specific terms used in massage. Once a massage therapist learns these terms, they tend to use them. One reason is so that there can be no confusion as to exactly what they are talking about. That is of course if they are talking to another massage therapist. Sometimes they forget that they are not always talking to someone who understands massage terminology.

In this age of the Internet and the Information Super Highway a lot of people are educating themselves. I believe this is an excellent thing to practice. The massage terminology I am going to list is not definitive, but only some of the more common terms. I will attempt to explain each one in plain English.

Massage Terminology:

Types Of Massage


  • Swedish Massage: One of the most common forms of massage therapy. It is a very relaxing and therapeutic form of bodywork.


  • Hot Stone Massage: A massage that uses basalt stones that are heated. They aide the therapist in providing deep penetrating heat to the muscles.


  • Deep Tissue Massage: A form of massage therapy that uses a lot of pressure to relieve muscle tension.


  • Sports Massage: A form of massage therapy designed for athletes. It's more vigorous than a Swedish Massage.


  • Trigger Point Therapy: A form of massage therapy designed to release a specific type of knot in the muscle. (see "All Knotted Up" below)


  • Therapeutic or Medical Massage: A form of massage therapy designed to work specific muscles.


  • Seated Massage: A form of massage therapy that uses a specially designed chair for the bodywork.


  • Reflexology: A form of bodywork that uses pressure points in the feet, hands and ears to stimulate the corresponding body organs.


  • Pregnancy Massage: This is also referred as side lying massage. It is used for pregnant women (obviously) but also used for special circumstances. A client may be physically handicapped, or in pain that prevents him from lying face up or face down on the table.


  • Energy Work: This involves many different massage modalities. It comes from Eastern Medicine and the belief that there is more to the human body than what can be seen physically. Most of these modalities date back thousands of years. Western cultures and medicine are only just starting to realize that energy work is real, although inexplicable.
  • Different Strokes For Different Folks


  • Effleurage: A gliding stroke used by massage therapists. This is typically used at the beginning and end of the massage. It's purpose is to warm the tissues by providing increased circulation.


  • Petrissage: A kneading stroke used by massage therapists. This stroke is designed to lift and knead the tissues. It helps in removing the metabolic wastes that have built up in muscle tissue. It also helps to draw new blood to the tissues.


  • Friction: Also referred as cross fiber friction. This stroke is most commonly used by the therapists fingers or thumbs. The therapist will sink into the muscle with his fingers, then rapidly move them back and forth across the muscle. This helps in breaking down tight knots that have built up in the muscle tissue.


  • Nerve Strokes: This is a form of effleurage that involves a light touch. It is usually done in a manner that is both light in touch and quick in movement. It's purpose is to stimulate the area after it has been worked with other methods.


  • Tapotement: This is what you have seen in the movies. The boxer that lays on the table while some big burly guy appears to be beating on the boxers back. In reality there are many forms of tapotement, from light finger tapping to the heavy beating. This is generally used at the end of a massage session and it helps stimulate the tissues.


  • Stripping: This is a stroke used by massage therapist that is designed to help lengthen a muscle. Usually the therapist uses his thumbs and while applying pressure he glides the full length of the muscle that is being worked on.
  • All Knotted Up

    There are different terms for the different conditions of a muscle. These can vary wildly and mean different things to different people. You might hear your therapist say "That's a ropey knot." What he may be referring to is a long tight band of muscle. Two forms of knots that have definitive meanings are trigger points and tender points.


  • Trigger Points: There are several types of trigger points; active, latent, primary, and satellite. For the purpose of this article we are going to just call them trigger points. Basically a trigger point is a knot in the belly of a muscle that when pressed on, refers pain to a specific point in the body. Trigger points are knots that are in a constant state of contraction. Normal massage strokes will not "release" a trigger point. A massage therapist has to use direct pressure on the trigger point to interrupt the nerve impulse that is causing the muscle contraction.


  • Tender Points are similar to trigger points with the difference being a tender point does not refer pain when pressure is applied. The method for releasing a tender point is different also. The therapist must place the muscle in a passively contracted state until the tender point relaxes and dissipates.
  • Some Miscellaneous Terms


  • Fascia: is a layer of connective tissue. Fascia is found throughout the human body. Think of it as a nylon stocking wrapping everything in the body. This is what helps hold everything in its place.


  • Tendons: These connect the muscle to the bone.


  • Ligaments: These connect bones to bones.


  • Draping: A technique used to cover a client in order to protect the clients modesty.


  • Drape: The material used for draping, this can be a sheet, pillow case, towel, etc.

  • Face Cradle: The area where a client rests their face on a massage table.


  • Bolster: A specifically designed cushion to aide in the clients comfort while lying on the massage table.


  • Lotion, Oil, Gel: The lubricant used to aide the therapist in giving a massage.


  • Prone: This is the face down position when a client is on the massage table.


  • Supine: This is the face up position when a client is on the massage table.
  • As stated earlier, this is not a definitive list of massage terminology. These are some of the more common terms used by most massage therapists. The next time your massage therapist uses any of these terms; you will know what he is talking about. You can be proud that the power of educating yourself has paid off!

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    A physical therapy assistant is one who assists a physical therapist in providing physical therapy treatment to patients. Physical therapy assistants usually perform physical therapy proceedings as instructed by the senior therapist. They assist the senior therapist in managing conditions such as sprains and fractures, back and neck injuries, burns, arthritis, stroke, amputations, multiple sclerosis, injuries related to sports, birth defects and others. It is the duty of the physical therapy assistant to gather information regarding the patient's response to the treatment and describe the outcome to the supervising therapist.

    Physical therapy assistant jobs promise a rewarding future. These jobs are increasing in demand day by day, and physical therapy assistants have excellent career prospects.

    Physical therapy assistants are required to have:

    o An associate degree from an accredited physical therapist assistant program.

    o A valid license proving clinical experience is an added advantage.

    Physical therapy assistants work in various healthcare settings such as private hospitals, physical therapy offices, nursing homes, community healthcare centers, home health agencies, rehabilitation centers, industrial health centers, research institutions, and pediatric centers, among others. They are also required in colleges, sport teams and organizations.

    By specializing in a particular clinical area, physical therapy assistants can advance their career. They can work as directors in the departments, in areas they are specialized in. They can also advance to administrative positions where they organize all the assistants in a physical therapy organization. Physical therapy assistants can opt for a teaching profession in accredited physical therapist assistant programs. They can take health fitness classes for the public.

    The salary of a physical therapy assistant depends on the position, degree of education, years of experience, practice setting and geographic location. To reduce the expense of physical therapy services, assistant therapists are very much required by physical therapists. Due to the increasing demand, physical therapy assistants have a good chance of a rewarding future with high remuneration and benefits.

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