These days, an increasing number of practicing massage therapists, wellness centers and spas offer massage services, and they are competing for similar clientele. The field of massage therapy is more competitive today than ever before. Massage therapists need to stand out from others if they want to enjoy continued success. Learn how you can cost-effectively integrate some unique and valuable aspects of the spa industry into your own private practice in order to attract new massage clients and to retain long-term ones.

by Linda Fehrs, LMT

One of the fastest growing segments of the consumer services industry is that of spas. According to the most recent survey released in 2007 by the International Spa Association (ISPA) and Pricewaterhouse Cooper, the current growth rate of the spa industry is 16% per year. There are approximately 14,600 spas in the United States alone, and over 11,000 of them are day spas. The rest are in locations such as wellness centers, resorts, hotels or country clubs. The spa industry in the U.S. currently serves over 111 million people and brings in annual gross revenue of $9.4 billion.

However, many people either don’t want to travel to a distant spa or prefer a more intimate setting with a massage therapist whose techniques they are familiar with. By looking at what spas are doing to attract clients, and learning how to implement similar features into your own practice, will help you stand out from others.

6 Ways to Integrate Spa Success
It is easy to incorporate what spas are doing into your own practice, whether you work alone or with others in a small private practice. Keep in mind though, creating a spa-like setting, along with a client-centered philosophy doesn’t have to cut into your bottom line. Most of the suggestions cost little or nothing to implement and your clients will return for more.

1. Offer Excellent Customer Service – This is perhaps the most important of all. Whether your focus is medical rehabilitation, stress reduction or an afternoon of pampering, your client needs to feel that your focus is completely on them. From the time you set up a new appointment, until and beyond the time they leave your office, make your client feel welcome and important. Always remember to be polite and patient, whether your client is new or a longtime patron.

2. Selling Massage-Related Products – The addition of product sales to your business will not only please your clients and keep them coming back, but may also increase your income. Clients often ask about the music you are playing during a session, an oil or cream you are using or a candle you are burning. Being able to offer these items for sale will enable you to offer them a kind of body, mind, spirit service. You may even want to expand further and carry health related books, massage tools or instructional videos.

3. Themed Settings – Clients are often influenced not only by the therapist, but also by the atmosphere of the office. Spas often have some kind of themed décor, sometimes depending on where they are located or what kind of services they specialize in. A spa in the Arizona, for example, might have a southwestern motif, and a spa specializing in Shiatsu, Thai and Lomi Lomi massage might use an Asian theme. Your interior design can be achieved through the simple use of color, framed posters and music. You can get more elaborate with furnishings or even fountains.

4. Special Signature Treatments – Along with a beautiful themed setting, offering unique signature treatments will set you apart from those doing only basic traditional massage. Many large spas offer either a unique massage routine or technique they have developed and even patented, like Esalen. Others offer sessions based on location themes, like the Hershey Park Spa. Their packaged treatments often sound more like soda fountain treats – Chocolate Fondue, Strawberry Parfait and Cocoa Massage. The sessions may offer combinations of treatments such as a massage, a pedicure and a facial or body wrap. You don’t need to get very elaborate, just creative. This might include networking with other professionals, such as licensed aestheticians to complement your massage.

5. Classes or Seminars – Depending on the size of your office, you might also consider conducting classes or seminars on topics that would be of interest to your clients. You may know someone who teaches Yoga or Tai Chi, or who can teach a course in aromatherapy. You may be able to teach infant massage to new mothers or a class in stretching.

6. Comfortable Setting – Your setting should be not only beautiful and relaxing, but also keep the comfort of the client in mind. Consider using warming pads on your massage table or scented eye pillows. Soft flannel sheets or even light blankets will help to keep your clients warm. Offering some herbal tea in a nice private setting after the massage helps to extend the relaxation, and the client needn’t have to run out immediately after a session.

Some of these suggestions will be easier to integrate into your practice than others. Choose what is right for you and appropriate for your practice. Sometimes it is necessary to be creative with your ideas. A unique idea is what will make you stand out from your competition and bring new clients to your practice.

“Remember,” writes Monica Roseberry, in her book Marketing Massage, “What makes you different makes you memorable, and if you want to expand on your additions to draw a clientele that wants more than just a rubdown, creating an aura or atmosphere that is unlike your client’s regular environment or unlike a typical clinical setting may hold a strong appeal.”

Recommended Study:
Developing a Wellness Center

Resources:

Allen, Laura, Use Spas’ Success to Build Success, Massage Magazine, March 2008.

Cutler, N. L.Ac. (February 2007). Benefits and Challenges of Working in a Spa. Retrieved from www.integrative-healthcare.org/mt.

Roseberry, Monica, Marketing Massage, Milady Publishing, 2002.

2007 Spa Industry Study, fifth edition, International Spa Association (ISPA) and Pricewaterhouse Coopers.

Posted by Editors at 12:19 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

More now than ever before, our cultural consciousness is shifting toward environmental protection. Find out how massage therapists can participate in treading lightly on the earth by incorporating several green suggestions into their practice.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

Likely due to the escalating effects of global warming, the rising cost of fuel and the growing number of those suffering from environmental sensitivities, more and more people are interested in living their lives in an environmentally friendly way. Also known as eco-friendly or green strategies, environmentally friendly goods and services are considered to inflict minimal harm on the environment. While there is no universal standard for eco-friendliness, bodyworkers adhering to green concepts will do their part in helping the environment and will attract clients wishing to do the same.

Making the effort to transform your massage practice into an eco-friendly one may seem like hardly enough to influence your surroundings. However, all significant change begins with the intentions of individuals. Deepak Chopra wrote an essay on peacemaking called, On Consciousness, War and Peace. Chopra writes, “Mahatma Gandhi spoke the truth when he said ‘You must be the change you want to see in the world.’ We are units of consciousness, and the world is our projection.” Accordingly, it is the global collection of eco-friendly efforts that will secure a healthful future for our planet.

Chronicling the history of environmental awareness documents its evolution. In previous decades, going green was simply associated with composting and using organic solutions for insect, disease and fertility problems in the garden. Today, evidence of environmental awareness is everywhere – in food, household and cleaning products, automotive design, bicycle lane construction, Energy Star appliance ratings, recycling programs and more. Incorporating green practices into everyday living has made the transformation from being used solely by left-wing, environmental activists to mainstream society.

Massage therapists can employ various approaches to help preserve the environment. In addition to conserving natural resources, some eco-friendly practices directly benefit clients who are sensitive to toxins or chemicals. With the goals of recycling, using renewable resources, improving energy efficiency and avoiding toxic materials, bodyworkers can take part in the green revolution.

Although not exclusive, the following suggestions can be considered to escalate your practice into an environmentally-conscious one:

· Organics – When possible, use organic supplies. Organically grown cotton linens are produced without the use of pesticides; they use sustainable agriculture practices such as crop rotation, and support beneficial insect life. Since the body absorbs chemicals through the skin, using organic massage oils and creams are a must for an eco-friendly massage.

· Chemical-Free – In addition to being eco-friendly, reducing toxins in your practice benefits clients who are sensitive to chemicals. This includes covering the walls with zero-VOC paint, cleansing linens with biodegradable detergents made without petroleum-based chemicals* and laying down eco-friendly flooring. Such flooring is made from renewable resources (such as bamboo or cork) and minimizes chemical off-gassing.

* Although washing in cold water is another green way to do laundry, this is not suggested for massage linens. Hot water and a hot dryer are necessary to kill any potentially infectious organisms.

· Save Energy – Reducing your business’ consumption of fuel and energy minimizes environmental impact – and depletion of your wallet. Ways to support environmental longevity by preserving energy include substituting standard light bulbs with energy efficient ones, saving on transportation fuel by enrolling in distance learning programs for CE Hours, and taking advantage of state and federal rebates for installing solar panels to generate electricity.

· Recycle – When the paper, cardboard or plastic you recycle is broken down into raw materials, new items are created. Considered to be the ultimate green act, participating in a recycling program makes a big impact on preserving the environment.

While some eco-friendly changes are simpler and less expensive to implement than others, every step towards living green makes a difference. Whether installing solar panels, using organic cotton sheets, recycling paper or completing continuing education units online, every individual effort strengthens the collective reduction of environmental toxins and overall protection of the earth.

References:

http://en.wikipedia.org, Environmentally Friendly, Wikimedia Foundation, Inc., 2008.

http://extension.unh.edu, What is Eco-Friendly?, Margaret Hagen, University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension, 2008.

www.altmed.com, Going Green: Massage Therapy Specialists Use Eco-Friendly Products, altMed LLC, 2008.

www.massagemag.com, Spas Go Green, Naomi Serviss, Massage Magazine, Inc., 2008.

www.selfgrowth.com, Top 10 Eco-Friendly Wellness Tips, Sarah Garney, SelfGrowth.com, 2008.

Posted by Editors at 03:41 PM

© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

Acquiring a massage table is one of the most important (and expensive) purchases a massage therapist makes. They definitely want a massage table that will serve them and their clients well. Discover six essentials bodyworkers should consider before making this crucial decision and potentially large expenditure.

by Linda Fehrs, LMT

Buying a massage table will probably be one of the biggest purchases you will make as a massage therapist. The price of a massage table ranges anywhere from $250 up to $4,000. Often you are required to get one while in massage school, and yet there is usually little or no advice given on how to choose the correct one.

There are many different types of practices, different personal needs and different types of clients. While there are a variety of massage tables, choosing the best style for you does not have to be daunting – consider the following before purchasing a massage table:

1. Portable or Fixed – Will you be doing out-calls or will you be working strictly out of an office? A portable table can be folded and carried about, while a fixed table is heavy, stable and, for all practical purposes, unmovable. Many massage therapists choose to have a portable table, even though they have an office, because occasionally they do out-calls or they use multiple offices. This means constant setting up and breaking down, which is impossible with a fixed table.

2. Price – The cost of a massage table will probably weigh heavy in making your choice. Are you a student just starting out? School is expensive enough without the added burden of a high cost massage table. Perhaps this is a second table, purchased after you have been in practice for a while. One option you have is to purchase a less expensive table while in school, and then resell it to an incoming student after graduation. By then you will know more about what features work for you and may be more able to make a better selection. You may be tempted by the lure of a low-cost mass-market table, but low cost can also mean poor quality and the lack of a manufacturer’s warrantee.

3. Table Height and Width – The size of your table may not seem to matter all that much, but the wrong size can wreak havoc with body mechanics. A table too narrow or too wide, too tall or too short can have you in pain in no time at all. Tables come in widths anywhere from 28 to 35 inches, and range in heights of 20 to 36 inches. The width is not adjustable, but tables generally have an adjustment of about ten inches, which helps accommodate not only you as a massage therapist, but also allows for differences you may encounter in client size. If you are 5’4” tall or less, you wouldn’t want to get a table wider than 29 inches, and if you are 5’10” or taller, anywhere from 27 to 33 inches is a good width. As a general rule, your average table height should fall somewhere around your hip joint, with some allowance for the size of your average client.

4. Thickness of Padding – This comes under the heading of client comfort. It may also determine the long-term quality of your table. You want your clients to feel like they are lying on a comfortable mattress, not a plank of plywood. And, thick foam padding holds up longer and shows less wear and tear than something lightweight and thin. Many companies also offer various firmnesses of padding, from extra-firm to plush. Some companies also offer firmness zones, allowing for less firm foam in the breast area of the table. The firmness you choose also depends on the type of massage you will be doing. Sports massage may require something more firm, while prenatal massage might be less so.

5. Weight – If you choose a fixed table, weight is not as important as when choosing a portable table. In a fixed table you want stability, not portability. A portable table can weigh anywhere from 22 to 30 pounds or more depending on the size and material it is made with. A good solid fixed table could weigh 150 to 300 pounds. In both cases those made with wood are generally heavier, those made from aluminum will be a few pounds lighter. If you are getting a portable table, take into consideration how you will be using it. Will it be mostly for out-calls where you will need to be carrying the table up and down flights of stairs, or on public transportation? You may want to invest in a table cart, which can mean less wear and tear on your back, but can also be more of a hassle getting it in and out of a car or other form of transportation.

6. Durability – If you are spending a lot of money on your table, you want to make sure it will last a long time. A frame made of hard wood like Maple or Birch will last longer than a softer wood such as Pine. Some companies are now using eco-friendly Bamboo for the table frames. Some fabrics are more durable than others. You want something that is easy to clean and will stand up to a lot of use. In the early days of massage therapy, table fabric was either cloth or leather, but now there are many synthetics that are soft, easy to clean and made using environmentally safe techniques.

Choosing the right table for you is an important decision, and these six considerations will help you make that choice. If you are still in school, pay close attention to the tables that are used for students. Schools want durable, sturdy tables that stand up to a lot of use and are cost effective. They also generally have a wide range of heights and widths to accommodate the many sizes and shapes of students. They are also concerned about safety and choose tables that won’t collapse because of weak hinges or poor construction.

Take your time and choose wisely. The right massage table is second only to your talent and skill as a massage therapist.

References:

www.massage-tools.com, Massage Table Options to Consider Before Purchasing Your Table, Massage-Tools.com, Inc., 2008.

www.bodyworkmall.com, Buying A Massage Table: 10 Points to Consider, BodyWorkMall.com, Inc., 2008.

www.healingenergies-at-londonwest.com, Massage Table – Purchase Guidance, Healing Energies at Londonwest, 2008.

Posted by Editors at 09:56 AM

© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

For the millions of people suffering with chronic low back pain, massage therapy will likely give some relief. However, find out how including four typically forgotten tactics into a treatment plan can substantially increase massage’s benefit to your clients.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

In a majority of healthcare settings, the number one complaint of massage-seeking clients is chronic low back pain. By using a variety of bodywork techniques to relax the major muscles of the lower back, many practitioners gear their practice towards these individuals. While direct manipulation of the contracted, pain-causing low back muscles can bring clients great relief, there are some simple, often forgotten applications that can enhance conventional massage’s therapeutic results.

Clinical studies continually conclude that massage therapy helps people who are suffering with chronic aches and pains on either side of their lumbar vertebrae. Some of the most common bodywork modalities proven to reduce low back pain through circulation enhancement include Swedish massage, acupressure, myofascial release, neuromuscular therapy and deep tissue massage. Therapists who integrate these different types of circulatory massage are often rewarded by client reports of immediate pain relief. Unfortunately, this pain relief is often short-lived. By incorporating the four tactics listed below, practitioners can prolong their clients’ pain relief far beyond the confines of the massage table:

1. Heat Therapy – While the qualities of warmth and heat have long been associated with comfort and relaxation, heat therapy goes further by providing both pain relief and healing benefits for many types of lower back pain. Heat’s ability to dilate constricted blood vessels can calm back muscle spasms prior to deep tissue massage, while driving a car, sitting at a desk or lying in bed. Applying a hot pack or taking a hot bath are two of the simplest ways to apply heat.

2. Core Strengthening – Weak muscles can cause back pain. A strong core distributes the stresses of weight-bearing and protects the back. In general, the muscles of the core run the length of the trunk and torso, and when they contract they stabilize the spine, pelvis and shoulder girdle and create a solid base of support. Core strengthening can include exercises on a stability ball or wobble board, Pilate’s and yoga.

3. Stretching – Shortened muscles can cause back pain. Tight back muscles, gluteal muscles, and even tight hamstrings or quadriceps can disrupt spinal alignment and cause pain. Stretching these muscle groups improves spinal mobility to prevent or reduce back pain.

4. Cranial-Sacral Therapy – This gentle healing modality is intended to free cerebral-spinal fluid restrictions within the closed system of the cranium, spinal column and sacrum. Although most people’s association of cranial-sacral therapy’s effectiveness is restricted to the head and neck, this osteopathic-based form of bodywork can also release sacral adhesions, thereby relieving low back pain.

By incorporating these four tactics into a treatment plan, massage therapists can lengthen the time their clients experience low back pain relief. For clients with chronic low back pain, here are some examples of ways to implement these suggestions:

· Being careful not to burn your client, lay a hot pack on his/her lumbar muscles before working on that area.

· Advise your clients to take a hot bath or use a hot pack at the end of their day, or whenever their back hurts the most.

· Do your research and prepare a handout sheet with instructions for core strengthening exercises and low back stretches. Confirm that the exercises and stretches are safe for your client and encourage a gentle progression.

· Many clients will appreciate the additional effort of you modeling the exercises and stretches for them.

· If you haven’t already, learn how to apply cranial-sacral therapy. Remember that freeing restrictions along the cranial-sacral system can improve chronic pain located adjacent to the spine or sacrum.

As long as safety remains the practitioner’s primary consideration, heat therapy, core strengthening, low back stretching and cranial-sacral therapy lengthen the pain-free moments of each day. By combining an integrated regimen of massage therapy techniques with the four commonly overlooked applications described above, massage therapists can help their clients attain prolonged relief from chronic low back pain.

Recommended Study:
Cranial-Sacral Therapy
Integrative Massage Program: Earth

References:

Cherkin, D.C., Eisenberg, D., et al, Randomized trial comparing traditional Chinese medical acupuncture, therapeutic massage, and self-care education for chronic low back pain, Archives of Internal Medicine, 2001.

Hernandez-Reif, M., Field, T., et al., Lower back pain is reduced and range of motion increased after massage therapy, International Journal of Neuroscience, 2001.

http://sportsmedicine.about.com, Building Core Strength takes More than Abdominal Exercises, Elizabeth Quinn, about.com, 2008.

Massage Eases Lower Back Pain, Increases Range of Motion, Massage Magazine, July/August 2001.

www.bigbackpain.com, Back Exercises, bigbackpain.com, 2008.

www.massagemag.com, Chronic Low Back Pain Eased by Massage, Massage Magazine, Inc., 2008.

www.spine-health.com, Benefits of Heat Therapy for Lower Back Pain, Vert Mooney, MD, spine-health.com, 2008.

Posted by Editors at 10:20 AM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

Traditionally known as a Traditional Chinese Medicine technique, cupping can be mastered by massage therapists to complement their professional repertoire. Discover several cupping variations, as well as the theory behind this traditional practice.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

One of the therapies employed by practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cupping is a powerful, manual technique for breaking up localized congestion. While it does require some additional training, cupping is within the scope of practice for most practicing massage therapists. Armed with expert guidance and a basic understanding of TCM theory, bodyworkers can deliver a deep, therapeutic cupping treatment while giving their hands a respite from the rigors of their profession.

What is Cupping?
Originally practiced to drain toxins from snakebites and skin lesions, cupping began by using hollowed out animal horns to suck poisons out of a recipient’s skin. As more was learned about human physiology, the therapeutic applications of cupping were applied to an increasing number of health conditions. Accompanying the progression of this therapy, the cups originally crafted from horns evolved to bamboo, then glass and sometimes plastic.

Records have proven that ancient cultures of China, Greece and Egypt regarded cupping as a medical practice as early as 28 A.D. Over the years, practitioners have relied on cupping’s strong suction to increase circulation for:

· Tightened or painful muscles
· Sprains or strains
· Pinched nerves
· Lung congestion
· Menstrual irregularities
· Inflamed breasts
· Lactation dysfunction
· Gastrointestinal disorders
· Cough
· Asthma

Cupping Variations
There are several cupping variations within a massage therapist’s scope of practice:

· Fire Twinkling Method – The practitioner clamps, then ignites a piece of alcohol-soaked cotton, places the flame into a glass cup, removes it quickly, and then inverts the cup onto the skin. Because the flame consumes the cup’s oxygen, a strong suction is created.

· Suction Pump Method – Usually composed of plastic, these cupping sets allow the practitioner to use a pump to remove oxygen from the cup, thus creating suction.

· Stationary Cupping – This is when a cup is applied to a specific, congested location and left there for up to 15 minutes.

· Running Cupping – This is when plenty of lubricant is applied to a broad area, a cup is adhered to the body, and then moved around without breaking the seal. Massage therapists can mimic several types of massage strokes by working with this technique.

Cupping Theory
Cupping is known for its ability to break up localized stagnation. Cupping is reputed to:

· Drain excess fluids and toxins
· Loosen adhesions
· Lift connective tissue
· Enhance circulation in stagnant musculature and fascia
· Stimulate the peripheral nervous system

In terms of TCM theory, the stagnation can be of just about any type: blood, toxins, qi or dampness. The suction created by cupping draws stagnant toxins, heat, energy or fluid out of where it has accumulated and brings it to the body’s surface. Once under the skin, the offending culprit can more easily be eliminated via the body’s waste removal systems.

Based on cupping’s most popular applications, the following conditions benefit from stagnation dispersal. For clarity, this is further broken down by stagnation type:

1. Blood Stagnation – Injuries, adhesions, menstrual irregularities

2. Stagnant Toxins – Gastrointestinal disorders, rigid muscles, breast inflammation

3. Qi Stagnation – Muscular pain, dysmenorrhea, pinched nerves

4. Fluid Stagnation – Lung congestion, asthma, lactation dysfunction

Once an adhesion or congestion is pulled away from its source, fresh blood, energy and fluids rush in to expedite healing. Besides sparing the practitioner’s hands from demanding physical labor, this dramatic increase in circulation makes cupping a valuable complement to bodywork. By learning about TCM stagnation theories and becoming practiced in the art of cupping, massage therapists have a unique and effective tool to bring their clients closer to their health goals.

For more information about cupping, look for the upcoming article, “Cupping for Massage Therapists: Part II.”

Recommended Study:
Shiatsu Anma Therapy

References:

http://www.massagecupping.com/, History of Cupping, Retrieved October 1, 2008, Massage Cupping Bodywork Therapy, 2008.

http://www.massagemag.com/spa/treatment/cupping.php, The Art of Massage Cupping, Anita J. Shannon, LBMT, Retrieved October 1, 2008, Massage Magazine Inc., 2008.

http://www.massagetoday.com/archives/2004/02/04.html, Massage Cupping Therapy for Health Care Professionals, Anita J. Shannon, LMBT, Retrieved October 1, 2008, Massage Today, February 2004.

Liangyue, Deng, et al, Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Foreign Languages Press, Beijing, 3rd printing, 1993: 346-347.

Posted by Editors at 02:00 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

The winter season often sees a decline in the scheduling of massages. Longtime clients get busy and new ones just don’t seem to appear. Hard economic times can be depressing and make you feel like you want to give it all up. Learn how one woman survived as a massage therapist during the Great Depression and how her skills can be applied to your own practice.

by Linda Fehrs, LMT

There is a story I would like to share that served as my inspiration for becoming a massage therapist. It is the story of Anna, a young woman who emigrated from Norway to the United States in 1923.

After paying for her transportation, Anna had just enough money to pay for one week’s lodging. Speaking no English, she found work as a cook at the Norwegian Seamen’s Home in New York City. Within two years she saved enough money to enroll in massage school and, in 1927, graduated from a grueling two-year program which included not only classes in massage, but all aspects of physiotherapy, including what Per Henrik Ling called Swedish Gymnastic techniques, and a year long hospital internship.

What the classes did not cover were instructions on marketing, how to find a job or setting up a private practice. Anna would learn this on her own. After graduation, she approached local physicians informing them of her skills and asking for patient referrals. Within a short time she was working for several doctors and making enough of an income with a private practice to rent an apartment in Manhattan.

In 1929 the stock market crashed. Anna was now married and pregnant. She and her husband William lost all their savings. What work William could find paid very little, 30 cents an hour at best. Anna’s practice, though, was doing fairly well, and at $2 to 3 per hour-long session, she was able to provide for the family. Between 1929 and 1934 her family grew to include not only her husband, but two children as well. The national economy was in crisis and there was little work to be found.

Anna knew she still had to make a living and never wavered from her work as a massage therapist. She never turned down a client, even after working a ten-hour day, for she never knew if or when there would be a time when there would be no more. A ground floor apartment provided her with an extra room to use as an office, which meant she was able to work from home. She offered special coupon books, paid for in advance, where clients paid the equivalent of nine sessions, but got ten coupons. At times she bartered her services for food and clothing, even furniture, knowing that clients relying on her had no money. Her family not only survived, yet in many ways prospered during the Great Depression, at a time when others were in dire straits.

Anna became a massage therapist because she wanted to help people. Her motivation was not to become rich, but simply to be of service to others. She knew if her intentions were good, honest and pure that she would in turn be given the means to provide for her family. She was not only determined, yet also assertive in seeking out and maintaining clients. Many of them remained with her for more than 20 years.

At the age of 75, after 50 years of working as a massage therapist, Anna finally retired. She still had several elderly clients that she worked on in their own homes and visited weekly.

Anna was my grandmother. At 75 she moved in with her daughter, my mother. Still holding true to her belief that massage was the answer to good health, and wanting to keep up her skills, she continued to give massages once a week to my mother for the next 25 years!

There are many messages for us in her story, messages about perseverance, determination and creativity.

Having a massage practice is not much different now and some of her ideas can be converted to a twenty-first century practice:

· Use down time to learn a new skill or technique. Have you been too busy in the past to take a course in hot stone massage? Now is the time to get in some CE Hours needed for re-certification.

· Get together with other massage therapists and contract for providing chair massage to local businesses. This may not only supplement your current income, but also provide you with potential future clients.

· Partner with local retail establishments to provide chair massage for busy holiday shoppers. Make sure to hand out business cards or fliers with special holiday offers for future massage sessions.

· Offer special pricing, such as buying a gift certificate for a massage at full price and getting another at a discount, or for the price of four massages the client gets five.

· Consider the feasibility of working out of your home, rather than a rented office. Do you have a room you could use as an office that would be convenient for clients and meets zoning requirements?

· Consider offering classes. You might provide instruction on infant massage to new mothers, classes in meditation, tai chi or stress reduction.

· Volunteer. Whether it is as a massage therapist, or serving meals at a homeless shelter, volunteering is a way to help others who are having an even harder time than you are. It also helps put things in perspective.

· Barter your services. Maybe there is a yoga class you would like to take but can’t afford. You can do this on a one-to-one basis with someone you know, or join a bartering club where services and goods are banked with a third party.

· For the winter holidays look into taking on a second part-time job. Retailers are often looking for temporary help. You’ll have opportunities to let more people know about your practice, earn extra income and perhaps get a substantial discount on items you need for your office or home.

Surviving a depressed economy is not easy. Instead of sitting at home or in an empty office worrying about what will happen next, use the time to approach your business in a new way, to expand your knowledge of the profession and to reflect on how you can reach out and be of service to others. What you give to them will come back to you in ways you could never imagine.

Recommended Study:
Chair Massage Fundamentals

References:

“Barter News.” 2008. Barter News. 4 Nov 2008 .

Roseberry, Monica. Marketing Massage: How to Build Your Dream Practice. Albany, New York: Milady Publishing, 2002.

Sohnen-Moe, Cherie. Business Mastery. 2nd. Tucson, Arizona: Sohnen-Moe Associates, 1991.

“How To Start and Operate Your Own Bartering Club.” 2008. World Information Center For Knowledge. 4 Nov 2008 .

Posted by Editors at 03:53 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

Although its lack of statewide licensing has historically impeded bodywork’s progress, the Golden State’s newly passed bill assures massage therapy’s rightful place in the professional health field.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

Massage therapy’s gradual acceptance into mainstream medicine has brought an increased responsibility to its practitioners. This responsibility is being met by states, municipalities and professional organizations that assure proficiency and ethics with massage therapy regulation. Despite this need, the requirements for practicing massage vary dramatically across the United States.

Although the exact numbers are unknown, the state with one of the largest concentrations of bodyworkers also has one of the least uniform standards for massage therapists (MTs) in this country. This lack of regulation permits those with little education to practice and inhibits the reputation of the entire massage profession. Fortunately, newly signed legislation has the potential to put massage’s questionability in the past.

Recognition and Rights
Massage therapy is being increasingly recognized for its healing potential. Due in large part to research being conducted according to the scientific method and then being published in medically respected journals, massage therapy is finally gaining universal acknowledgement for its therapeutic benefits.

Prospective clients have a right to expect that a massage therapist has the qualifications needed to practice effectively and safely. Thus, legal recognition of the practice of massage therapy and clearly stated requirements to practice are essential for promoting the profession and protecting the health and safety of the general public. A majority of U.S. states understand the gravity of this responsibility to its citizens and have enacted state boards and licensure requirements that massage therapists are held accountable to.

How Many Massage Therapists?
Although there is no reliable data on the number of MTs legally practicing in California, analysts suspect this state to have the greatest proportion of practitioners. Regardless of which source looked upon, California has the greatest number of MTs in any of the states.

· While self-employed MTs are not included in their estimates, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Employment Statistics from May 2007 recorded California as having the highest number of employed massage practitioners in the country. The four states with the greatest concentration of employed MTs were: California with 7,240, Florida with 4,150, Texas with 3,120 and New York with 2,330. Again, this data does not included self-employment – the most common way MTs earn a living.

· Of these four states, all but California have state regulated massage therapy boards. According to these boards, the actual number of licensed MTs is as follows: Florida with 28,000, Texas with 26,000 and New York with 15,000. By extrapolating these statistics, California likely has over 30,000 practicing massage therapists.

How Much Education?
The states with massage therapy boards are leading the advancement of this profession into the future. Among other responsibilities, these boards mandate a certain level of education to assure the public that their practitioners know enough to safely and competently practice this healing modality. Unfortunately, California’s lack of a massage therapy board has put a drag on the profession. Of the states with the most MTs who have enacted legislation, the following number of hours is required to be completed in an approved certified massage therapy program:

· Florida – 500 hours
· Texas – 500 hours
· New York – 1,000 hours

Massage therapy is the largest healthcare profession in California without consistent statewide regulation. The profession is currently controlled by numerous county and city laws and, in some cities, there are no requirements at all. However, Governor Schwarzenegger changed this dynamic by signing California Senate Bill 731 into law on September 27, 2008. This legislation poises California to unify and improve its massage therapy standards. Some highlights of Bill 731 include:

· Definitions of what titles MTs may use

· Forming a Massage Therapy Organization (MTO) that will oversee statewide certification of MTs

· Two tiers of certification: Massage Practitioner requiring 250 hours of education from an approved school and Massage Therapist requiring 500 hours of education from an approved school

· The intention of the MTO is to accept applications and begin issuing certificates in September of 2009

Medical professionals’ understanding that the human body can benefit so much from massage therapy is cause for celebration. However, this realization places an urgent demand on bodyworkers to endure adequate training. Now that the state with the largest number of practicing MTs has begun a uniform licensing process, the profession can emerge from any doubtfulness of massage’s capabilities. Despite the allowance of Bill 731 for a massage practitioner to have half the education of a massage therapist, California is at least finally on the right track.

References:

http://data.bls.gov/oes/datatype.do, Occupational Employment Statistics: Massage Therapy, Retrieved November 18, 2008, US Department of Labor, 2008.

http://www.amtamassage.org/government/mt_regulations.html, Why We Need Massage Therapy Regulations, Retrieved November 17, 2008, American Massage Therapy Association, 2008.

http://www.futurehealth.ucsf.edu/pdf_files/massage_therapists.pdf, Massage Therapists in California, Tina McRee, Retrieved November 20, 2008, University of California, San Francisco, The Center for the Health Professions, September 2003.

http://www.massagemag.com/News/massage-news.php?id=4313&catid=massage-therapy-title-act-sb731-signed-into-california-law&title=, Massage Therapy Title Act, SB731 Signed Into California Law, Retrieved November 20, 2008, Massage Magazine, October 2008.

http://www.massagemag.com/Resources/massage-laws-legislation.php, Massage Laws and Regulation, Retrieved November 20, 2008, Massage Magazine, Inc., 2008.

http://www.massagetoday.com/mpacms/mt/article.php?id=13882&MERCURYSID=da9a0347fc9f974ba80c58f56b09b37c, Certification in California, Dixie Wall, Retrieved November 17, 2008, Massage Today, November 2008.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/massage/SA00082, Massage: A relaxing method to relieve stress and pain, Retrieved November 20, 2008, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2008.

http://www.ncbtmb.org/about_faq.php#6, Frequently Asked Questions, Retrieved November 19, 2008, National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, 2008.

http://www.op.nysed.gov/article155.htm, Education Law: Article 155, Massage Therapy, Retrieved November 20, 2008, Office of the Professions, New York State Education Department, 2008.

http://www.sfdph.org/dph/EH/Massage/default.asp, Massage Licensing Program, Retrieved November 18, 2008, San Francisco Department of Public Health, 2008.

Michael De La Cruz, Program Specialist, Perfusionist Advisory Committee
DSHS Professional Licensing & Certification Unit - MC 19, Massage Therapists in Texas, Personal email, November 20, 2008.

Posted by Editors at 10:54 AM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey was published almost 20 years ago. Since then it has sold over 15 million copies in 38 languages and influenced many individuals who have successfully applied the habits to their own personal lives. Start the New Year off on a positive note - see how these timeless principles can be used in any massage practice.

by Linda Fehrs, LMT

At the beginning of each new year we often start out with the good intention of resolving to eliminate bad habits and replacing them with life enhancing ones. We promise ourselves to eat healthier, exercise more, spend quality time with family and friends, contribute or volunteer time to charity and a myriad of other good deeds.

But each year also seems to become more stressful as we try to cope with changes around us and survive in a world that has become more technologically oriented and more complex. As massage therapists we interact on a one-to-one basis with our clients. Maintaining balance in our own lives is important not only in being able to be content in our own lives, but to be of value to them as well.

Stephen Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, doesn’t take credit for inventing the concepts he writes about, only identifying and writing about what he calls “universal, timeless and self-evident ‘principles.’” These principles, if applied, can serve to enhance and give depth and meaning to your personal life and your massage practice.

Incorporating the Seven Habits
1. Be Proactive – Being proactive is about taking responsibility for your life and not blaming or turning that responsibility over to others. Be proactive rather than reactive to the circumstances that exist around you. Proactive people use words like “I can and I will.” A reactive person says, “I can’t, I have to, if only” and feels they have no choice, no free will.

There are times when you may need to be proactive in your practice. If you are just starting out, or if the economy is sluggish, you need to be assertive in letting others know who you are and what you are doing. During times when clients seem to be too busy for a massage, or assume they cannot afford what they consider a luxury, you need to feel comfortable about sending reminders and perhaps making concessions in pricing such as holiday specials or reduced price gift certificates. Rather than sitting around depressed or feeling embittered because of circumstances around you, find ways to create an optimistic attitude and become empowered by focusing on those things you can control.

2. Begin With The End in Mind – As children we are often asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” You need to ask yourself similar questions. What will it take to achieve your dream – for your practice and personal life to evolve into what you envision it to be? Think of this in terms of your overall business – where is my practice going? Where will I be in one year, five years or even 10 years? Think of it also with regard to each client you work with. How can I help this client achieve the optimum benefit from massage? What is the goal? Each step you take in the ‘now’ is one step closer to your future.

3. Put First Things First – Proceeding one step at a time will help you from tripping over yourself or getting in your own way. Prioritize your life, including your family, business and time for yourself. Don’t overextend obligations at the cost of losing something valuable. Is it all that important to work a 12-hour day at the expense of not spending time with your spouse or child? Is skipping lunch or not getting enough exercise in order to fit in one more client as important as your health? Putting first things first is about maintaining healthy balance in your life and managing your time. Taking care of yourself may be the best way you can continue to take care of others.

4. Think Win-Win – Modern culture seems to stress winning, sometimes at a high price. But in the game of win or lose, does anyone really come out ahead? Winning and losing is based on comparison and competition, sometimes unfairly. Win-win is based on cooperation and, “is a frame of mind and heart that constantly seeks mutual benefit in all human interactions,” writes Covey. A win-win situation comes about when you approach potential conflict with integrity, maturity and an abundance mentality. That is, you remain true to your feelings, values and commitments; you express your ideas with consideration for others; and, you know there is plenty for everyone. Personal lives and businesses don’t need to be either/or situations. There doesn’t have to be a winner and loser. We can strive to greater heights together.

5. Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood – Do you really pay attention to what others have to say? Do you hear what your client is saying during intake, or has it become just a formality? Do you ask and listen for feedback from your client during a session? How annoying is it when you speak to someone and know they aren’t really listening, but simply waiting to tell you what they have to say? We often selectively listen to others and filter what is said through our own reference frames. But just as we want to be understood, so too do others. As massage therapists, we take in information through initial intakes, feedback during sessions and by touch. Make sure you really listen to what each client has to say.

6. Synergize – Work with others! Consider the effectiveness of creative cooperation. Synergy is all about more being better. It is about open-minded teamwork. It is about bringing in fresh ideas and finding new solutions to old problems. Get together with other massage therapists as well as other alternative healthcare professionals and learn from each other. Provide workshops together. Create a multi-practitioner office. Join professional organizations. Our differences not only make us unique as individuals but also contribute to the strength and unity of the whole.

7. Sharpen the Saw – Grow, change and evolve. Read and study. Take continuing education courses. Learn new techniques; deepen your knowledge about those things you already know. Spend time with nature. Meditate. Try your hand at creative endeavors – art, music or dance. Exercise not only your body, but also your mind and spirit. “Feeling good doesn’t just happen,” writes Covey, “Living a life in balance means taking the necessary time to renew yourself. It’s all up to you.”

The problems and conflicts we have are universal. So, too, according to Covey, are the solutions.

Resources:

Benjamin, Ben E., Ph.D, and Sohnen-Moe, Cherie. The Ethics of Touch. Tucson, Arizona: Sohnen-Moe Associates, Inc., 2003.

Covey, Stephen. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. 15th Anniversary Edition. New York: Free Press/Simon & Schuster, Ó1989, 2004.

Covey, Stephen. The 8th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness. New York: Free Press/Simon & Schuster, 2005.

Posted by Editors at 02:10 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

There are currently more than 35 million Americans over the age of 65, and geriatric massage is one of the fastest growing specialties in the area of massage therapy. Discover eight specific medical issues you may encounter with this population – including skin ulcers, impaired hearing and chronic conditions – and how these issues may impact your massage sessions. In this exclusive 2-part article, you’ll also learn how you can help ease the aches and pains of our aging population.

by Linda Fehrs, LMT

When we come into this world we are, for the most part, touched, held and coddled by family and friends. Everyone loves a baby and wants to be a part of this new life. At the end stages of life it is more likely that there are few eager to embrace a fragile body or address a weakening soul. Often the elderly and frail are all but shunned at a time when they should be most included in our lives. They are by some accounts the most “under touched” of our society.

As a massage therapist you are trained to provide what an elder or frail individual may need the most. While others may provide meals and other physical comforts, you can offer the essential gift of compassionate and healing touch.

The first of the baby boomers (those born between 1946 and 1964) are beginning to hit their 60s, an age when they will be officially classified as senior citizens. And it seems that for the most part they are a hale and hearty bunch. Brought up in a world of eclectic approaches to health, accepting as normal the practices of yoga, meditation, therapeutic massage and the consumption of organically grown foods, they benefit from advanced medical technology as well as many modern conveniences that make life easier. They are also the first generation to be brought up in a culture providing them with highly processed prepackaged foods, toxic air, water pollutants and the stress of high expectations.

8 Medical Issues and Massage Implications
Those born earlier, in the 1920s – 1950s, are living longer which, when combined with baby boomers, means the field of geriatric massage will only increase proportionately to this growing population. While serving this segment of the community might at times be challenging, it can be very rewarding. If you are focused on a geriatric population in your practice, you may have a large age range of clients, which means a need to be knowledgeable about a wide spectrum of medical issues.

There are some specific issues you may have to deal with in an aging client population. Here are eight examples of issues you may encounter along with ways you can make the massage session easier for both of you:

1. Hearing / Vision Loss – Allow more time for intake. A person with hearing or vision problems may take longer to fill out your forms. You may want to offer a large print format or suggest the intake be conducted in an interview style, which would lessen the chances of mistakes or misinterpretation of information.

2. Less Mobility / Agility – Make sure your office is handicapped accessible and, if needed, provide some sort of a sturdy step up to the massage table as well as a helping hand. If mobility is a major problem you can offer seated massage rather than one on your table.

3. Medications – Become familiar with common medications such as those used for high or low blood pressure, blood thinners, cancer treatments, heart problems and psychiatric problems. The absorption rates and side effects of many medications are affected by massage and, if not taken into consideration, can lead to dizziness, nausea, increased lethargy and/or bruising. Pain medications may make your clients less sensitive to touch or unable to give accurate feedback regarding appropriate pressure during a massage. Check with the primary physician if you are unsure about any medications your client may be taking.

4. Past Surgeries and Injuries – As one grows older they most likely have had some serious injuries or surgeries, such as joint replacement. Often, special bolstering or positioning is important for the client’s comfort and safety.

5. Common Diseases – During intake, make note of ailments like Crohn’s disease and diabetes, bronchial problems like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) and cancer. Be alert to these and other common conditions, as they will most likely affect how the massage is conducted.

6. Chronic Conditions – Gastrointestinal problems are common. As we get older our digestive tract often becomes less effective. The intestinal and abdominal musculature weakens and nutrients are absorbed less efficiently. Problems can vary from mal-absorption disorders, to diarrhea and constipation. Incontinence may be a concern because of kidney or urinary bladder deficiencies. Other organs slow down and become less productive. Still more problems may arise with the removal of dysfunctional organs like the gallbladder or spleen.

7. Skin Ulcers (commonly known as bedsores) – Skin ulcers are common among those who are forced to remain immobile for long periods of time. This can be easily avoided by moving the client to new positions regularly and by massage.

8. Psychiatric Problems – Various forms or dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease can make giving a massage challenging. Depending on the severity and stage of the illness, clients may not comprehend what is happening and patience is needed to help them understand. Other clients may suffer from depression or anxiety, in which case a massage may help them to relax and feel more in control of their lives.

Offering Comfort and Influencing Health
The older one gets, the more things start to break down. The skin becomes thin and fragile, muscle tone and mass decrease and bones become more brittle. These are things to take into consideration when dealing with the elders in a massage setting. Whether it is providing them with a soft fleece pad to lie on while receiving a massage, an extra blanket for warmth or simply comforting them with friendly conversation, massage therapists can offer a welcoming and healthy atmosphere.

If a person is frail or ill, other than being poked and probed for medical care, they are often deprived of the very essential basic touch. Other family members are on the go, busy with their everyday lives. Their spouse may have died or be incapacitated. Children and grandchildren have moved away and old friends may be too ill to visit. There is often no one close to have warm, intimate or friendly physical contact with. Whether remaining at home or living in a facility, seniors can become socially isolated, depressed and lonely.

Some may be healthy and strong at 90, others may be frail and sickly at 50 and seem more “senior” than their elders. Active seniors may be healthy enough to come to your office for a massage, but in many cases you will find you must visit their home, hospital, assisted living facility or even hospice. No matter what the location, you may find that you need to provide some special accommodations to assure comfort and safety.

This emergent senior population will have a huge impact on our healthcare system, and massage therapists can have an equally large impact on influencing their health.

Recommended Study:
Advanced Anatomy and Pathology
Pharmacology for Massage

References:

Nelson, MFA, CMT, Dawn. Compassionate Touch: Hands-On Caregiving for the Elderly, the Ill and the Dying. Barrytown, New York: Station Hill Press, Inc., 1994.

Nelson, Dawn. From the Heart Through the Hands: The Power of Touch in Caregiving. Forres, Scotland: Findhorn Press, 2001.

Rose, Mary Kathleen. “Comfort Touch: Nurturing Acupressure Massage for the Elderly and Ill.” December/January 2004. Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. 14 Oct 2008 www.massagetherapy.com.

Wible, RN, BSN, Jean. Pharmacology for Massage Therapists. Baltimore, Maryland: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2005.

Posted by Editors at 01:01 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

Depending on what techniques are applied, massage therapy can either raise or lower blood pressure. In preparation for working with hypertensive clients, it’s crucial you know which modalities to choose.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

Because one quarter of all Americans have it, massage therapists should have a plan of action when encountering hypertension. Some practitioners automatically assume that the work they do will have an overall positive effect on cardiovascular health. However, this is not always the case. Because some techniques with a specific therapeutic application can cause blood pressure to temporarily rise, massage therapists must be cognizant to avoid these approaches on hypertensive clients.

About Hypertension
Otherwise known as high blood pressure, hypertension affects approximately 50 million Americans. Blood pressure is the force of the blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. A blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:

· Systolic – Better known as the top number of a blood pressure reading, the systolic pressure describes the maximum pressure that occurs with each contraction of the heart.

· Diastolic – Also known as the bottom number of a blood pressure reading, the diastolic pressure describes the lowest pressure that occurs when the heart rests in between beats.

While there is some debate about the exact numbers that indicate hypertension, it is generally understood to be an average systolic blood pressure above 140 mm Hg, a diastolic blood pressure above 90 mm Hg, or both. While hypertension alone does not have many symptoms, it dramatically increases the risk of heart disease and stroke – the first and third most common causes of death among Americans.

Causes of Hypertension
There are many contributing causes of high blood pressure. There are two major types of hypertension: essential (primary) and secondary. Essential hypertension is by far the most common, accounting for more than 95 percent of all cases. While secondary hypertension is generally caused by an internal disease or substance abuse, essential hypertension is suspected to be due to a combination of the following:

· Genetics
· Low nitric oxide levels (a naturally occurring agent responsible for the dilation of blood vessels)
· Insulin resistance
· Obesity

Reducing Hypertension
Lifestyle modifications are a critical component to lowering blood pressure, and are always indicated regardless of the need for prescription medication. In addition to regular exercise, maintaining a desirable weight, reducing sodium intake, increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, stopping smoking and minimizing alcohol, massage therapy is a valuable tool for reducing high blood pressure.

Interestingly, researchers have found that some modalities are effective at reducing the pressure inside the artery’s walls, while others increase that pressure. The techniques regarded as good blood pressure reducers include:

1. Swedish Massage – Published in the January 2006 edition of The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, American researchers looked at the effects of different types of massage on blood pressure. They found that Swedish massage had the greatest effect on blood pressure reduction.

2. Cranial-Sacral Therapy – While not confirmed in a randomized study, advocates of cranial-sacral therapy tout its ability to lower blood pressure. According to the London-based integrated medical physician Dr. Andrew Logan, advanced cranial-sacral therapy can ease hypertension by relaxing the sub-clavian and femoral arteries.

3. Aromatherapy – A study published in a Korean medical journal in December 2006 evaluated the effects of an aromatherapy blend on blood pressure. The researchers found that inhaling blends of lavender, ylang ylang and bergamot once daily for four weeks reduced the blood pressure of those with hypertension.

Raising Blood Pressure
There are many ways to raise blood pressure – including being stressed out, drinking lots of caffeine, taking pseudoephedrine or steroids or receiving a painful type of bodywork. The January 2006 study that found Swedish massage to be most effective at lowering blood pressure also found that certain modalities increased blood pressure.

More specifically, the researchers determined trigger point therapy and sports massage both capable of increasing the systolic blood pressure. Recipients who received both types of massage within one session had both their systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings significantly increased. Since the conclusion was made that potentially painful massage techniques can result in a blood pressure increase, practitioners can assume that other aggressive therapies such as friction massage or Rolfing have the potential to exacerbate hypertension.

The goal in treating hypertension is to reduce the risk of serious complications, including heart disease and stroke. Although massage therapy is not a standalone treatment for high blood pressure, choosing the right bodywork modality can help reduce hypertension’s associated risks. For clients with high blood pressure, avoid techniques that could be painful. Instead, rely on Swedish massage, cranial-sacral therapy and aromatherapy to give your clients’ blood vessels a respite from the pathological pressure they routinely endure.

Editor’s Note: For more information about massage safety with hypertension, read Hypertension: Massage Indication or Contraindication?

Recommended Study:
Advanced Anatomy and Pathology
Aromatherapy Essentials
Cranial-Sacral Fundamentals
Swedish Massage for Professionals

References:

http://www.integrative-healthcare.org/mt/archives/2007/01/hypertension_ma.html, Hypertension: Massage Indication or Contraindication?, Nicole Cutler, L.Ac., Retrieved December 7, 2008, Natural Wellness, January 2007.

http://www.liebertonline.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2006.12.65, Changes in Blood Pressure After Various Forms of Therapeutic Massage: A Preliminary Study, Jerrilyn A. Cambron, et al, Retrieved December 7, 2008, The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, January 2006.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16267371?ordinalpos=7&itool=EntrezSystem2
.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_DefaultReportPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum, The effect of therapeutic back massage in hypertensive persons: a preliminary study, Olney CM, Retrieved December 7, 2008, Biological Research for Nursing, October 2005.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez, The effects of the inhalation method using essential oils on blood pressure and stress responses of clients with essential hypertension, Hwang, JH, Retrieved December 7, 2008, Taehan Kanhoe Hakhoe Chi, December 2006.

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/hypertension-000087.htm, Hypertension, Retrieved December 7, 2008, University of Maryland Medical Center, 2008.

Posted by Editors at 02:53 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org