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MASSAGE THERAPY
Massage is one of the oldest natural healing therapies dating back to China nearly years ago. Today, massage therapy combines the ancient art of massage and the modern sciences of anatomy and physiology.
Massage Therapy is the application of 'hands-on' muscle healing techniques, and other associated therapies which have been found to positively affect the health and well-being of the patient. It is a general perception that massage feels good. What a lot of the population doesn't realize is the beneficial effects that accompany massage therapy. Massage Therapy enhances health by acting directly upon the circulatory, muscular, and nervous systems to aid in rehabilitating physical injuries and various conditions.
Research shows that massage therapy reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, increases blood circulation, relaxes muscles, increases range of motion, and increases endorphins , the body's natural pain killers. A recent medical study showed 65% of people found massage was 'very helpful' for back and neck pain, while only 27% found conventional medicine/physiotherapy was 'very helpful' (Spine 2003;28(3):292-8).
Whether seeking relief of a specific condition, searching for a method to help deal with stresses of daily life, or wanting to maintain good health and a sense of well-being, more and more of the population are turning to therapeutic massage for an answer. Call Alberta Back and Neck Rehab to book a massage today, so you can start feeling great! (403) 234-0040
A massage is usually a 1/2 hour or 1 hour of quiet relaxation where you are lying comfortably on a massage table covered in sheets or blankets with only the area the massage therapist is working on exposed. The therapist, with oil on their hands, locates and treats areas of muscle spasm using various massage techniques, depending on their findings and your preferences.
Types of Massage
Deep tissue massage focuses on the deep layers of muscle tissue. Deep tissue massage is used to release chronic muscle tension through slower strokes and more direct, deep pressure or friction applied across the fibres of the muscles. Deep tissue massage helps to break up and eliminate scar tissue, trigger points, and adhesions. It usually focuses on more specific areas and may cause some soreness during or right after the massage, but usually dissipates within a day.
During a relaxation massage a variety of techniques that on focus the body' soft tissues are applied. Generally, the therapist will use a light to moderate pressure, depending on the patients' preference. The treatment is usually applied in a full-body sequence, but can be adapted to the patients' preferences (for example back and neck). A relaxation massage is an effective way to reduce tension and stress and enjoy an hour of peace and quiet!
Pregnancy is a time of significant physiological and structural change in a womens' life. Massage therapy is an effective form of adjunctive (complimentary) healthcare during this time. Benefits include stress reduction, relaxation, improved circulation, and reduction of musculoskeletal strain and pain. The benefits follow the women on to labour and help her during the birthing of her baby as well as the first few weeks as a new mother. Positioning of the mother is done with care to ensure the safety and comfort of herself and her baby.
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