Massage Therapy

Although it certainly is relaxing and does feel good, the overall health benefits are often over-looked.

Far beyond simply "feeling good", massage therapy has an impressive range of effects and benefits, many of which have been documented in research studies in the U.S., Europe and Asia.

Using a wide variety of hands-on methods a professional massage therapist not only stretches and loosens muscle fibers and its' connective tissues (fascia), but also greatly improves blood flow and encourages healthful circulation.

Not only is the circulation of the blood improved, but the fluids of the lymphatic system are passed through the regional lymph nodes more efficiently, freeing it of foreign particulate matter, especially bacteria, as well.

Stasis?
Massage therapy is also beneficial to people who are required to remain in the same position for extended periods, such as office workers, secretaries, computer operators, and receptionists. These people and others are prone to develop something physicians call "stasis", which is a medical term that means stagnation of the normal flow of the body's fluids.

Professionally practiced massage therapy stimulates the removal of everyday metabolic waste products that result from both over-exertion as well as inactivity.

Once these waste products are removed revitalizing oxygen and healthful nutrients can more easily flow into the cells and tissues of the body.

Although there is some controversy as to the cause of muscular pain after over-use, some researchers attribute it to a over abundance of lactic acid (a metabolic waste product), and the muscle's inability to remove excessive amounts from itself. Again massage therapy is very beneficial here.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Tight muscles that are painful to touch, knots or a "ropey" feeling muscle, aches and pains that limit your ability to walk, move your arms or shoulders, a tingling in the hands or a burning sensation in the muscles are typical warning signs that your muscles, tendons and ligaments may be damaged or injured and need professional attention. If these warning signs are ignored and the injury continues to progress it can lead to a very painful condition call Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS). It is a common but complex problem in which a section of the muscle develops contracted, painful knots called "trigger points."

Are you at risk for MPS, or are the muscles in certain areas of your body already "tied up in knots"? They may be if your soft tissue has been damaged because of strain, poor posture, overuse, trauma, or lack of exercise and poor nutrition.

Damaged soft tissue may heal incorrectly, with muscle fibers twisting into a knot. As a result, you may have pain and limited mobility anywhere in your body, including your back, arms and legs, but most commonly in the upper shoulders and shoulder blade (scapula) areas.

What Can Help?
Whether your soft tissue problem is in your upper shoulders, arms and hands, low-back or legs your certified myotherapist can recognize if she can help you or if your problem has advanced to the point where a physician such as a chiropractor should be consulted.

If your therapist feels she can improve your mobility, relieve your pain, and slow or stop the progression of MPS she will discuss her plan of action with you. Of course you will be able to quickly realize if the therapy is helping you and your situation.

Keep Your Muscles Relaxed
Prevent your muscles from turning into painful knots by practicing a few simple tension-reducing techniques. Relieve stressed or tight muscles with rest. Do stretching and strengthening exercises as recommended, carefully. Take frequent breaks from repetitive tasks that stress your soft tissues.