29th September 2008Author: Michael Tasker
Views: 25
Most people when hearing the term massage will just think of a full body massage treatment, but they would be missing out on a whole range of massages which are targeted at specific areas of the body.Here is a top ten available for you to try.

Swedish massage therapy: This is the most common type to be offered by masseurs because it is very gentle and relaxing. The masseuse will use long strokes, kneading and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. The result is a refreshed, calm and renewed feeling for the body.

Aromatherapy: The reason why it is called such is because one or more scented plant oils are used during the session. During the session, you will select the oil you want to use. In fact, the most popular one is lavender as it is well suited for stress related conditions together with an emotional component.

Hot stone massage: Heated smooth stones are placed on certain parts of the body to help loosen those tight muscles and balance energy points in the body. At times, the masseuse may also apply gentle pressure especially for those who have muscle tension.

Deep tissue massage: The massage technique is specifically designed to target the deep layers of body muscle and connective tissue. Here, the masseuse will use slow strokes better known as friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. The distinctive feature of deep tissue massage is that it is used on those that have chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems and recovery from injury. You will often feel sore for the next day or two.

Shiatsu: This is a Japanese form of massage therapy. Here, the masseuse will use localised finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is then held for a period betwen 2 and 8 seconds which is designed to improve the flow of energy and assist in the body regaining balance. Those who have tried it say that it is relaxing yet firm. The best part is that there is no soreness afterwards.

Thai: This is similar to Shiatsu because it aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Part of the session also includes compressions and stretches as you are moved in a variety of postures just like yoga but in this case, you don’t do anything except go with the flow.

Pregnancy: For women that are expecting, they can opt for a specialist pregnancy massage. The benefits it was designed for are the relief of aches and pains, reduce swelling, relieve stress and reduce the ailments of anxiety and depression.

Reflexology: The can also be known as foot massage as the procedure involves applying pressure to parts of the foot. Those who practice this believe that the foot corresponds to certain organs and systems so if you are able to work on that, you have also done it in the whole body.

Sports: This is designed for people involved in sports activities. Professional atheletes benefit from this treatment the most but anyone who is involved in sport should consider this as it assists in helping to prevent and treat injuries.

Back & Neck: Unlike reflexology that focuses on the feet because it represents special points in the body, this one simply relieves tension in the back and neck caused by lifting heavy objects or driving for long periods of time.

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What if you could you could heal, improve, relieve, relax, even arouse just with the power of your hands? The beneficial effects of the various massage therapies available are too often ignored as a natural method of easing common ailments. It is not difficult to learn the basics of massage and those not able to undertake it are missing out on a very rewarding skill.
Discover how you can harness the power of your hands and be able to massage with confidence at http://www.massagedvd.info

Tags: tight muscles, muscle tension, massage therapy, deep tissue massage, massage technique, full body massage, body muscle, circular movements, massage treatment
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Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_651362_23.html

01st October 2008Author: Michael Tasker
Views: 19
It is only now being recognised by many people that massage therapy can offer a lot of health benefits in addition to the regular muscular problems that they use massage to obtain relief for.In fact, massage can be used as a natural form of preventative medicine and below you can find many hidden benefits for using massage that you may not have been aware of

Relaxation: This is the most popular reason why people have multiple massages. After a period of stressful work many people require and want to have a natural means of relaxing. Less aware is the fact that massages are very beneficial for the skin as it stimulates the release of toxins and hormones. In fact, some studies have even shown massages as being able to lower the possibility of wrinkles production. This is one reason why facial and Indian Head massages are gaining in popularity.

Pain Relief: Another benefit of massage therapy is the fact that it can loosen those tight muscles especially if you frequently have cramps on your legs. Regular massage sessions can also relieve you of your tired and aching muscles. This is especially useful with people who are into sports or those who live the active lifestyle. It improves blood circulation especially to the bodies exterminates.

Better Athletic Performance: People who participate in active sport can also benefit a great deal from the various massage therapies available. If you feel that your muscles have become tight and rickety, massage can improve on your flexibility and also increase your range of motion. If you get massage therapy on a regular basis, you will notice that you can now do movements that were painful to do before. Massage also improves the body’s resistance. It is those hidden factors which are often the most important to know about and benefit from. One of the great benefits of massage therapy is that it has been found to lower the body’s blood pressure and heart rate plus assists in the recovery from injuries. It also strengthens the immune system.

Improve Mental Faculties: Massage is also a great way to improve your mental performance. It can actually reduce mental stress, allowing you to work more productively and with a clearer thought process. It is also known to relieve headaches. Massage therapy also allows you to concentrate better on the task at hand. After a massage, you will basically have a clean slate in your mind that is equivalent to the restful therapy that sleep gives.

Inner Calmness: Massage therapy can induce the elements to ensure a feeling of inner calmness where the stress of the day has been lifted, replaced by a aura of wellbeing that enwraps your body. This is an excellent method to counteract high blood pressure, creating an inner feeling of serenity.

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What if you could you could heal, improve, relieve, relax, even arouse just with the power of your hands? The beneficial effects of the various massage therapies available are too often ignored as anatural method of easing common ailments. It is not difficult to learn the basics of massage and those not willing to undertake it are missing out on a very rewarding skill. Discover how you can harness the power of your hands and be able to massage with confidence at http://www.massagedvd.info

Tags: heart rate, tight muscles, preventative medicine, range of motion, blood circulation, cramps, health benefits, massage therapy, benefits of massage, athletic performance, aching muscles, pain relief, massage therapies, stressful work
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22nd September 2008Author: Graham Williams
Views: 41
Massage therapy clinics are setting up shop all over the world. They are like mushrooms that have sprouted out of nowhere. But though one would not know where they come from, one certainly has an idea why. Massage therapy is one of the fastest growing industries in the country.

This is perhaps because of the fact that people are looking for ways to relax after a hard days work. This is especially true for people who live in the city where life is more fast paced. Another reason is the continued publicity coming from celebrities. Massage therapy is becoming a fad.

This is the reason, that many people are looking at the massage therapy industry for careers. Although the pay is not profitable enough for a lot of people, but the tips can be pretty astounding particularly if you already have a regular list of clients. If you are one of the people who want to have a job in this business, here are three tips on how to land that job.

1. Get some training

Unlike other professional people, you will not need a degree to be able to start your career in a massage therapy clinic. Just about all clinics will not even require a college degree particularly for starting employees. But this does not mean that you will not have to make an effort to learn this job. A good way to get a massage therapy job easily is to get some training.

Remember that in this job, you will not just knead the shoulder blades and back of your clients in the directions that you want. You will also have to follow certain massage techniques. It is a plus point to know even a little of these techniques before you apply for a job.

2. You need to visit massage therapy clinics

One of the best ways to get to know this job is to discover first hand what goes on inside these type of clinics. Visit some of them in your free time. Look at their list of the different types of massage that they are offering and then if you can, observe how they do their massages. Check out the movements of their massages and the products that they use on their clients. While there, ask any quires that you have, because its a sure fact that you will have some.

You can use your observations, quires and your education inside the massage therapy clinics during your job interview. Potential employers are are impressed with potential employees, who show an interest in the job, by making such observations.

3. Try asking the massage therapists

Try asking someone who is already working in massage therapy clinic about their experiences. This way, you should know what to anticipate when you are there on the job. Inquire about the hours that they put in and the tips that they get each day, their salary. You could also ask for their lousiest experiences in this job. This will help you determine if the massage therapy industry is the job that you want to get into.

You should never be afraid to ask questions, more often than not, they will be happy to help you through their own experiences. You could even ask them if there are any job openings in their clinic. You should also leave your phone number with them as well, this is so that they can contact you should a job opening come up. Keep in mind, most of these clinics will not advertise job vacancies. They would much more just rely on referrals.

Graham Williams runs a site about Massage Therapy. If you would like further free help and information about massage therapy, then try visiting his site Massage Therapy Tips.

Tags: publicity, fact that people, fad, college degree, mushrooms, celebrities, massage therapy, free time, massages, fastest growing industries, massage techniques, shoulder blades
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Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_644553_36.html

16th September 2008Author: jdobson
Views: 18
Stress is on the rise in this day and age. With more and more people working longer hours and making poorer meal choices, our bodies are paying the price. If left untreated, stress buildup can lead to serious physical problems. One particularly effective way to turn the tide of this negative cycle and restore balance to your life is through massage therapy.

Far from simply being a kneading session for the muscles, massage therapy encompasses a wide field of bodily remedies, including relief for tendons, joints, and ligaments in addition to muscles. Massages can range from light backrubs to intense full body treatments. In addition, there are a number of different styles of massage therapy from many different regions around the world. Following are some summaries of the more well known styles.

Shiatsu Massage -
Literally meaning “finger pressure,” shiatsu massage is a Japanese traditional massage therapy which incorporates ideas from Chinese medicine as well as western physiology. The therapist uses his sense of touch to detect irregularities and applies pressure to specific regions of the body in an effort to correct bodily imbalances and promote good health. Currently, the practice of Shiatsu massage therapy is regulated in Japan by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. In the United States, the professional organizations which certify practitioners of Shiatsu massage are the American Organization of Bodywork Therapies of Asia (AOBTA) and the National Certification Council for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).

Swedish Massage -
This type of massage therapy can be very helpful in loosening joints, promoting flexibility and reducing pain all around. The five principal techniques used by practitioners of Swedish massage are vibration, compression, tapping, kneading, and light touch, each combined in an order depending on the treatment goals discussed between practitioner and client. Therapists who are graduates of one of the 58 accredited training programs monitored by the Commission for Massage Therapy Accreditation/Approval and certified by the American Massage Therapy Association are guaranteed to have at least 500 hours of training.

Stone Massage -
Different in approach from the more manual preceding styles of massage therapy is Stone massage. This style of massage uses warm or cool stones to apply heat or pressure to the body. When coated with oil, the stones can be made smooth and used as tools to glide along body lines, providing dynamic pressure for therapeutic means. It is important to be sure the practitioner has brought the stones to the proper temperature in order to avoid the possibility of burns or serious discomfort to the skin.

A good massage can bring about a world of benefit and relaxation, both physically and psychologically. With careful consideration and a little research, anybody can find the program that is right for them.

A great way to see these techniques in practise is to visit such sites as VideoJug.com. Here they have many Massage films which will show you the basics behind these therapies.

Tags: massage therapy, sense of touch, oriental medicine, chinese medicine, different regions, regions of the body, swedish massage
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Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_640081_29.html

We can all use a substance-free boost to manage the demands of a hectic life. Incorporate some or all of these energy-stimulating techniques into your daily routine to keep illness at bay and maintain a steady stream of vigor.

Our bodies are intricately designed to maintain health and overcome illness. The body naturally seeks homeostasis both on a physical and energetic level. Electromagnetic and subtle energies give our bodies life and form the foundation of our well-being.

Chakras and meridians are two systems in which these forces are contained. The chakras form the body’s energy centers while the meridians form the body’s energy pathways. Both emit electromagnetic energy and light. The key to energy medicine is to keep these systems open and balanced so that our life force (qi) can support, shape and animate our physical body.

Both scientific research and personal experiences reveal that energy medicine has the potential to affect every aspect of our being – from healing trauma to balancing emotions. The fundamental law of energy medicine states when our energies are vibrant and balanced, so are our bodies. An increasing number of bodyworkers are enhancing their treatments by incorporating subtle energy work into their sessions. As this trend grows, it becomes more evident that these energies are intelligent, responding positively to intention and touch.

With a few well-chosen energy techniques, bodyworkers and their clients can maintain their vitality and reverse an illness at its onset. In her book, Energy Medicine, Donna Eden offers five useful tips for maintaining your energy systems and nipping an oncoming illness in the bud. The first four techniques can be performed on yourself for daily maintenance, while the last technique requires a partner’s assistance.

1. Separating Heaven and Earth

Rationale: This exercise opens the meridians, expels toxic and stagnant energies and stimulates fresh energy to flow through the meridians and joints. Do this exercise when you start to feel sick. If you do healing work, it moves out any energy you may have picked up from a client and helps to center restorative energy in the lower abdomen.

1. Stand erect with hands on the thighs, fingers spread.
2. Take a deep inhalation through the nose, circle arms out and bring hands together in the prayer position at the heart. Exhale through the mouth.
3. Take a deep inhalation through the nose, while separating the hands: one arm stretches straight above the head with the palm facing up toward heaven; the other arm stretches straight down to your side with the palm facing toward the earth.
4. Visualize that you are pushing something up to heaven and down to earth through the palms. Hold your breath in this position for as long as it is comfortable.
5. Release the breath through the mouth and return the hands in the prayer position. Repeat, switching arms. Do one or more additional lifts on each side.
6. Come out of this pose by bringing both arms down, allowing your body to bend at the waist. Hang there with your knees bent slightly as you take two deep breaths.
7. Slowly roll up to standing position one vertebra at a time. Roll the shoulders back.
8. Bring palms to cover the navel, close eyes and meditate for as long as you like.

2. The Hook Up and the Three Thumps

Rationale for the Hook Up: The Hook Up brings two major energy channels into balance: the governing channel (runs up the center of the back/spine) and the conception channel (runs down the center of the front of the body). The Hook Up strengthens the auric field, connects energies that flow from the front to the back of the body, bridging the energies that flow from the back to the front of the body.

1. Place one thumb or middle finger on the forehead between the eyebrows. Place the other thumb or middle finger in the belly button.
2. Pull slightly upward on the skin of both points. Close the eyes, take a deep breath, exhale and relax. Hold for about two minutes or until you sigh or take a deep breath naturally.

Rationale for the Three Thumps: Tapping specific points on the body will affect the energy field by sending electrochemical impulses to the brain and releasing neurotransmitters. The Three Thumps address fatigue, increase vitality and keep the immune system strong in the midst of stress. The specific locations for thumping are: Kidney 27, the thymus gland and the neurolymphatic reflex points for the spleen.

Thump Kidney 27 Points: boost energies in all meridian and increase concentration. Kidney 27 is the last point on the kidney meridian and its stimulation is indicated for adrenal exhaustion.

1. Place fingers on the clavicle and slide them toward the center. Find the bumps where they end, drop down about one inch and move slightly outward approximately one inch. There is a slight indentation on these points.
2. With palms facing these points, cross hands over one another. Rest the middle finger on these points.
3. Tap and/or massage these points firmly while breathing deeply — in through the nose, out through the mouth. Continue for about 20 seconds or 25-30 taps.
4. Boost the effects of thumping Kidney 27 by hooking the middle finger of one hand in the navel and resting the fingers of the other hand on the Kidney 27 points. Pull upward with the navel and hold for two or three deep breaths.

Thump the Thymus Gland: stimulate all energies, boost immune system and increase strength and vitality.

1. Move fingers down about two inches from Kidney 27 points and into the center of your sternum.
2. Breathe deeply while tapping the thymus point with the four fingers of each hand for about 20 seconds or 25-30 taps.

Thump the Spleen Neurolymphatic Reflex Points: lift energy, balance blood chemistry and strengthen the immune system (remove toxins, fight infection).

1. Find these points by moving fingers down from the thymus, out at the level of the nipples and straight down to beneath your breasts. Then move them down over the next rib, just below the breasts.
2. Tap firmly with several fingers for about 20 seconds or 25-30 taps. Breathe deeply in through the nose and out through the mouth.

3. Massaging Neurolymphatic Reflex Points for Each Season

Rational: Each organ has corresponding neurolymphatic reflex points. Massage re-energizes these points by removing toxins from the muscles. Blood, lymph and the corresponding meridians are stimulated.

Neurolymphatic Reflex Points for Fall Immunity: work the lung and large intestine points to boost immunity during fall.

• The Lung Reflex Points: Front lung points are located in the second, third, and fourth intercostal spaces close to the sternum; back lung points are located between the second, third and fourth transverse processes of the spine. Place the fingertips in the intercostal spaces lateral to the sternum and massage briskly for about 15-30 seconds. For the back, use two tennis balls side-by-side on the floor; lay down with the tennis balls just under the fourth transverse process, then roll back and forth covering the reflex points along the spine.
• The Large Intestine Points: Points are located from the transverse processes of the second, third and fourth lumbar vertebrae to the crest of the ilium. Locate these points and use your fingertips to massage the triangular area for about 15-20 seconds.

4. The Crown Pull

Rationale: Energy naturally accumulates at the top of the head. When this energy does not exit out the crown, it becomes stagnant, often causing headaches and mental fatigue. The crown is the gateway to the higher energies of heaven. This exercise opens the crown chakra, releasing mental congestion and refreshing the mind.

To Open the Forehead:

1. Place thumbs at the temples. Place fingertips on the forehead just above the center of the eyebrows.
2. Slowly and with some pressure, pull fingers apart, stretching the skin. Breathe deeply in through the nose and out through the mouth.
3. Place fingertips at the center of the forehead and repeat the stretch. Breathe.
4. Rest fingertips along the hairline above the forehead. Stretch laterally with the fingers. Breathe.
5. Repeat each of the stretches one or two more times.

To Open The Crown:

1. Place fingertips about two inches down from the center of the crown. Slowly and with pressure, pull down. Breathe deeply in through the nose and out through the mouth.
2. Place fingertips at the center of the crown and pull them apart. Breathe.
3. Place fingertips about two inches down from the center of the back of the crown. Slowly, pull apart with the fingers. Breathe.
4. Place fingertips at the center of the back of the crown and pull apart. Breathe.
5. Repeat each of these stretches one or two more times.

5. The Spinal Flush

Rationale: The spinal flush works with the lymphatic system, the cerebrospinal fluid system and the reflex points along the bladder meridian. Reflex points on the bladder meridian correspond to every organ in the body. This technique is great for anyone under intense emotional or physical stress. It is best performed with a partner, but if in the absence of a partner, use tennis balls along either side of the spine to work small sections of the back at a time. The points are located from the base of the neck, at about C7, to the bottom of the sacrum, between the transverse processes of the spine. Perform this exercise three times, once for the lymphatic system, once for the cranial-sacral system and once for the organs.

1. Lie prone on a massage table. Have your partner begin at the base of your neck, C7, and massage the points between the transverse process of the spine using the thumbs. Apply strong pressure using your own body weight.
2. Work each point for about five seconds by moving the skin up and down or in a circular motion.
3. At the sacrum, massage the entire area. Repeat the massage.
4. To close, sweep the energies using the flat of the hands, moving from the tops of the shoulders down and off the feet. Repeat once or twice.

The key to performing these exercises is to use your intention to move the energy. The energy follows the mind. Visualizing the energy moving coupled with your intention help you feel the effects of these exercises. When working on a client with any of these techniques, help them to visualize and hold their intention of moving the energy in their own body.

Energy techniques can be used by anyone, anywhere and at anytime. They are easy to use, inexpensive, don’t require complex equipment or instrumentation and have no known adverse effects. Using these tips on a regular basis can be truly healing. Share them with those you love.

References:

Chaitow, Leon. Modern Neuromuscular Techniques, Churchill Livingstone, 1996.

Eden, Donna. Energy Medicine, Penguin Putnam, Inc., NY, 1998.

Osborn, Karrie. “Energy Medicine, A Field of Potential,” in Massage and Bodywork, August/September, 2005.

Posted by Nicole at 09:48 AM

© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org <http://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 on October 8, 2008 02:00 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org <http://www.integrative-healthcare.org/>

Discover 10 massage cupping tips, and review the clinical support for this ancient healing art. This is the second installment of this invaluable 3-part article.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

More massage therapists than ever are embracing additional complementary approaches for healing. Likely a result of the increasing popularity of massage therapy and, thus, the greater demand for highly trained practitioners, cupping has sparked interest in many massage therapy practices. While there isn’t an abundance of scientific evidence proving cupping’s effectiveness, its ability to promote circulation is well-known to practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Bodyworkers wanting to learn more about the tradition of cupping can experiment with the massage cupping techniques described below.

For a basic understanding of what cupping is, its general variations and the theories supporting its use, read TCM Cupping and Massage: Part I.

Cupping Massage Techniques
Being familiar with several massage cupping techniques can help a bodyworker confidently include cupping in his/her range of services. Below are ten suggestions for effective massage cupping:

1. The level of suction for running cupping should be gentler than that used for stationary cupping.

2. Prior to applying cups for running cupping, administer plenty of oil to the area being cupped to facilitate smooth cup movement.

3. When moving the cups, the movement should be smooth without the practitioner applying downward pressure, because that would inhibit the suction effect.

4. The broad area of the back is one of the best surfaces for running cupping. The back can generally accommodate the larger cups.

5. Imitating a long stroke with the cups can help drain fluid accumulation.

6. Circular movements with a cup over a specific area can help release stubborn knots, adhesions and other types of rigid tissue.

7. Applying a diluted essential oil to the skin immediately following running cupping will facilitate its absorption into the tissue.

8. Long strokes along the ribs can improve ribcage expansion and benefit deep breathing.

9. Vigorous circling with the cups on the gluteus maximus can help ease certain types of sciatica.

10. Strong stationary cupping on the Lung Back Shu points can help relieve chest congestion, coughing and asthma.

Evidence
Although the clinical support endorsing massage cupping is sparse, centuries of successful case studies have perpetuated its use. Since cupping falls under the umbrella of Traditional Chinese Medicine, most of the research on this modality has been conducted within a TCM setting.

The variation known as wet-cupping has dominated a majority of cupping’s research, and wet-cupping does not fall under a massage therapist’s scope of practice. Wet-cupping is when the skin is pricked with a lancet, then covered with a cup to draw out the stagnant blood. Bypassing the research on wet-cupping, a couple of clinical trials evaluated massage or stationary cupping in isolation:

1. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – Chinese researchers observed the therapeutic effect of multiple, stationary cupping at the back-shu points on participants with chronic fatigue syndrome. By comparing their clinical symptoms before and after treatment with either cupping or acupuncture, the researchers found that cupping’s ability to reduce chronic fatigue symptoms far surpassed acupuncture’s effectiveness.

2. Senile Dementia – Researchers evaluated the effect of running cupping (massage cupping) on participants with senile dementia. Running cupping was performed over the spine (the Governing Vessel channel) and along the sides of the spine (the Urinary Bladder channel). The investigators determined that running cupping improved dementia’s symptoms as evidenced by increased measures of bodily strength, memories, feelings and movement.

While these two studies represent just a small percentage of a bodyworker’s clientele, the empirical evidence supporting massage cupping has preserved its practice for centuries.

Using cups to massage the body can be incorporated into most bodywork sessions. By learning about this modality and practicing different running cupping techniques, practitioners can add another layer of therapeutic effectiveness to their treatments.

For information about cupping’s cautions and contraindications, look for the upcoming article, TCM Cupping and Massage: Part III.

Recommended Study:
Aromatherapy Essentials
Shiatsu Anma Therapy

References:
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.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18306448?ordinalpos=31&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_DefaultReportPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum, The efficacy of wet-cupping in the treatment of tension and migraine headache, Ahmadi A, et al, Retrieved October 1, 2008, American Journal of Chinese Medicine, 2008;36(1):37-44.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18630535?ordinalpos=10&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_DefaultReportPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum, Observation on therapeutic effect of multiple cupping at back-shu points on chronic fatigue syndrome, Chen GL, et al, Retrieved October 1, 2008, Zhongguo Zhen Jiu (Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion), June 2008.

http://www.siom.edu/resources/class05/brown/sdrc.html, Treatment of Senile Dementia with Running Cupping Along Back Shu Points: 18 Cases, Translated by Jennifer Lynn Brown, Retrieved October 1, 2008, New Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, December 1996.

Posted by Editors on November 6, 2008 11:59 AM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org <http://www.integrative-healthcare.org/>

Before massage therapists add cupping to their menu of services, they must have a firm grasp of cupping’s cautions and contraindications. This is the final installment of this important 3-part article.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

Because cupping gives massage therapists a break from deep tissue work while delivering a powerful therapeutic benefit, it is an ideal supplement to a massage therapy practice. While cupping is a relatively simple practice, there is a lot to learn about this method before mastering it. In addition to the flawless application and manipulation of cups, knowing what conditions it helps most and why cupping works, practicing therapists must know about cupping’s cautions and contraindications.

For background information on cupping, read TCM, Cupping and Massage: Part I and TCM, Cupping and Massage: Part II.

The therapeutic benefits to massage cupping are far-reaching. However, practitioners who include cupping in their repertoire must log in a significant amount of practice before performing it on clients. In order to assure its effectiveness and maintain cupping’s safety, massage therapists must be extra careful to prevent burns, apply the right level of suction and be familiar with all of the associated contraindications.

Fire Cautions
Because it can provide a strong suction without causing tissue damage, the fire twinkling method is the traditionally preferred method of cupping by many practitioners. Nonetheless, when using the fire twinkling method, therapists must be attentive, quick and agile to prevent burning their clients. The following tips help prevent burns or fire hazards:

· Protect – Since the practitioners must place the flame into the cup in close proximity to their clients for quick adherence, the client’s skin, hair, clothing and anything flammable (hair product, oils, linens) must be protected from catching fire. Being alert is crucial to providing such protection.

· Plan – Logistical planning prior to cupping is essential to minimize any fire hazards. Once the flame is withdrawn from the cup, the cup is applied and the flame is blown-out, place the hot, alcohol-soaked cotton ball on a stable, non-flammable surface. Because the flame may not be 100 percent extinguished, practitioners must make sure it cannot re-ignite what it is resting on, or roll off onto something flammable. A wide porcelain bowl on a firm surface (not the massage table) is a good choice.

· Timing – Choosing the amount of time the flame is held inside the cup can be a fine line between too short and too long. If the lit cotton is in the cup for too short a time, it will not create sufficient negative pressure for suction. If the lit cotton is in the cup for too long, the lip of the cup will become very hot and could burn the client. Until mastery over cupping is achieved, practitioners should always err on the flame occupying the cup for a shorter period of time. If insufficient suction occurs, the process can always be repeated.

Suction Cautions and Contraindications
Whether you choose the fire twinkling or suction pump method to apply the cups, the therapist must avoid cupping’s contraindications and be careful with the degree of suction used.

· Bruising – While stationary cupping typically causes more bruising than massage cupping, either technique can leave large, unsightly bruises in the cups’ wake. (To review the difference between these cupping variations, read TCM, Cupping and Massage: Part I.) To prevent surprised and angry recipients, make sure to discuss this possibility with your client prior to using this modality.

· Degree of Suction – Getting strong enough suction is key to cupping’s effectiveness. Although, too strong of a suction could damage the tissue or even create a blister. Cupping’s intensity depends upon the following: the speed the cup is placed on the skin after the flame has been removed, the strength of the flame (certain alcohol burns hotter than others) and the size of the cup. Therefore, practicing the balance between these variables will help the therapist determine a safe cupping routine. Practitioners will find that it is very challenging to obtain suction over irregular angles, thin muscles or on areas with lots of body hair.

· Contraindications – Just like any modality that strongly invigorates the circulation, there are some situations where cupping should be avoided. Cupping should not be done on a client with a fever, convulsions or cramps, over allergic skin conditions, ulcerated sores or large blood vessels. In addition, cupping is contraindicated on the abdomen or lower back of pregnant women or on those with a bleeding disorder.

Cupping is a relatively simple application that, when done correctly, can relieve many types of congestion in the body. Despite its simplicity, there is a great deal to learn about cupping before it can be safely administered. By reducing fire hazards, preventing burns, practicing timing, informing your client about the potential for bruising, refining your degree of suction and memorizing cupping’s contraindications, therapists are better prepared to add this valuable technique to their massage practice.

References:

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.

http://www.naturalnews.com/z020253.html, Ancient Chinese technique of cupping offers pain relief without drugs or surgery, Alexis Black, Retrieved October 9, 2008, Natural News Network, August 2006.

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

Tierra, Lesley, L.Ac., The Herbs of Life, The Crossing Press, Freedom, CA, 1992, 148-149.

Posted by Editors on November 25, 2008 04:17 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org <http://www.integrative-healthcare.org/>

As massage therapy melds into mainstream America, more and more research is demonstrating how bodywork can positively affect the course of cancer. Discover preferred modalities, their benefits and risks, as well as critically important steps to take prior to addressing this disease in your practice.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

Editor’s Note: The information contained in this article is intended for informational purposes only. Working in this field must be done within scope of practice, in Western medical partnership, and with adequate education and training.

As cancer becomes increasingly prevalent in our society, the likelihood of encountering a client with cancer or desiring to work specifically with this illness is growing in the massage therapy field. Being aware of massage therapy’s risks, protocols and preferred modalities for a person living with a cancer diagnosis is crucial before interfacing with this disease.

Massage’s Risks
The primary risk of working with cancer is the possible encouragement of its spread. Since medical technology cannot yet accurately predict when, how or why it occurs, the spreading of malignancy takes place at any time, and could potentially be blamed on any therapeutic intervention. Massage poses such a risk because metastasizing cancer cells are believed to utilize the body’s circulatory system to spread. As massage therapy generally increases local and systemic circulation, it is easy to see why bodyworkers are cautioned against working with individuals harboring malignancies.

In addition to the risk of metastasis, people undergoing Western medical treatment for cancer are likely to be very weak. Aside from surgical intervention, the two primary treatments for cancer include chemotherapy and radiation. While chemotherapy is more systemic and radiation therapy is more localized, both kill just about everything in its path, making the body’s immune system virtually defenseless.

· White blood cells are destroyed along with cancerous cells during traditional cancer therapies. A person with an extremely low white blood cell count will be unable to protect themselves from any external pathogens. Until these individuals’ immunity recovers, the slightest introduction of germs can have devastating consequences. Extreme attention to hygiene must be practiced in this situation.

· In addition to cancerous cells, cancer therapies also eliminate blood platelets. Without platelets, anything more than light pressure will not only result in severe bruising, but could also lead to uncontrolled internal bleeding. Obviously, a person with low blood platelets must only receive the lightest of touch therapy.

· Weakness and fatigue are often the most encountered symptoms during cancer treatment. Talking on the phone or walking across the room can be exhausting feats a person in this situation hopes to accomplish. A normal-length bodywork session can sap the person of what little amount of energy they have, as it is too much for a body fighting cancer to handle. Very short sessions, less than 10 minutes, are a more realistic goal for those who are extremely weak.

· Traditional cancer therapies can be very drying to the body, which explains the typical presence of an IV. Considering the lack of fluids to escort out any toxins released from bodywork, a massage that is too intense can easily maximize the stress on the liver and kidneys, and can push the client into a toxic reaction. Again, short and light bodywork can circumvent this complication.

Protocol
There are four critical elements of massage therapy protocol for people in cancer treatment, and they are very straightforward.

1. The first is obtaining physician permission. Only the client’s doctor has the authority to clear them for massage. Be prepared to discuss your plans with the physician and request permission in writing. A person in a clinical trial will likely not receive the okay from their physician, as it may skew the results.

2. The second is communicating with your client. Judging if the work is too intense for your client is most accurate when you communicate freely with the recipient. Make certain they inform you if feeling dizzy, nauseous, suddenly exhausted or otherwise unwell.

3. The third is documentation. Documenting your work in the traditional style of SOAP notes will protect you and your client from accusations or legal action. Additionally, it may provide enlightenment when the patient recovers quickly.

4. The fourth is compassion. Working with this population is not only demanding and dramatic, but requires unremitting compassion. Most professionals in the massage therapy field are overflowing with this quality, but it is essential in working with cancer.

Preferred Modalities
As dictated by the risks, the preferred massage modalities for a person in cancer treatment center on being gentle. Enhancing muscular, blood or lymph circulation is much too aggressive for a person battling cancer. Styles that incorporate a light touch and focus on energy healing are the safest and most effective for clients in such a vulnerable state.

Therapeutic Touch Therapy is the most effective, well-known alternative therapy for individuals in cancer treatment. In fact, there is so much research on its efficacy that many registered nurses administer Therapeutic Touch to cancer patients. Reports on this type of gentle energy work claim that for people with cancer, it decreases pain, improves vitality, increases physical functioning and benefits their mood.

As our understanding of the benefits of touch therapy for cancer broadens, practitioners working with this population will become increasingly in demand. If you decide (with physician permission) to work with a client in therapy for a cancerous condition, make certain you are aware of the risks, protocols and best method of bodywork administration. Armed with the permission and knowledge necessary, compassion is the remaining ingredient to bringing the wonders of touch to a person who could really use it.

Recommended Study:
Healing Energy and Touch

References:
Hubbard, Ariel, Energywork: A Powerful Complement to Massage, Massage Today, June 2005.

Massage and Healing Touch Ease Cancer Symptoms, Massage Magazine, May/June, 2004.

Healing Touch Augments Radiation Therapy, Massage Magazine, November/December 2004.

Post-White, Janice, RN, PhD, FAAN, Therapeutic Massage and Healing Touch Improve Symptoms in Cancer, Integrative Cancer Therapies, Vol. 2 No. 4, 2003.

www.school-for-champions.com, Basis of Therapeutic Touch and Healing Touch, Ron Kurtus, Kurtus Technologies and The School for Champions, 2005.
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org <http://www.integrative-healthcare.org/>
Posted by Editors at 10:03 AM

Many people take ACE Inhibitors to control their hypertension, yet most of us don’t know how this could impact a massage. Learn the common names of the highly prescribed ACE Inhibitors and how to modify a massage session to safely complement and balance effects from this class of medication.

High blood pressure is rampant in our society. According to the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, a subdivision of the Centers for Disease Control, about one in three American adults have high blood pressure. High blood pressure increases the risk for heart disease and stroke, both leading causes of death in the United States.

Hypertension is the more technical name to describe persistently elevated blood pressure. Blood pressure is the force of blood against the artery walls and the measure of that force is in the form of a fraction. The top number of a blood pressure is called the systolic pressure which measures the force of the heart’s active pumping action. The lower number of a blood pressure is called the diastolic pressure which measures the heart’s relaxing phase of pumping blood throughout the body. Hypertension can refer to elevated blood pressure readings in any combination: high systolic pressure, high diastolic pressure or high readings of both of these components. Hypertension is indicated when the blood pressure reading is consistently a number equal to, or exceeding, 140 over 90.

Once hypertension develops, it not only increases the risk for many diseases, but it also typically lasts a lifetime. For the person with high blood pressure, it is especially important to take action. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits is an effective first step in both preventing and controlling high blood pressure. If lifestyle changes alone are not effective in keeping blood pressure under control, it may be necessary to add blood pressure medications.

Antihypertensive drugs act to reduce blood pressure and pharmacological treatment of hypertension usually starts with beta blockers and diuretics. If these are not effective, a treatment plan usually continues with sympatholytic drugs including vasodilators, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or a combination of drugs.

There are some important things for a massage therapist to know when administering massage to someone on an ACE inhibitor. Examples of commonly prescribed ACE inhibitors are Prinivil, Zestril, Enalapril, Vasotec, Altace and Accupril. According to Jean Wible, RN, BSN, NCTMB, CHTP, author of Pharmacology for Massage Therapy, “The ACE inhibitors dilate the vessels; therefore, the effects of mechanical massage strokes on the blood vessels may be enhanced. Slightly increasing the rate of application and the use of tapotement may ease any problems that could arise, such as weakness or dizziness and fatigue. Because ACE inhibitors also affect the rate of excretion of sodium and water from the body, the use of systemic strokes that increase circulation (i.e., effleurage) is limited in duration.”

Hypotension is the main side effect of the ACE inhibitors that concerns the massage therapist. Here are some massage modifications that will help to prevent an extreme drop in blood pressure for clients on ACE inhibitors.

• Increase rate of application.
• Use tapotement.
• Limit the duration of effleurage.
• Stay with your clients as they sit up after a massage.

Hypertension automatically disqualifies a massage recipient from receiving deep abdominal work. According to Ruth Werner, LMP, NCTMB, author of A Massage Therapist’s Guide to Pathology, “Regardless of whether the client is on blood pressure medication, deep abdominal work is contraindicated for high blood pressure. This is because it is possible to accidentally trip the vasovagal reaction. Unintentionally overstimulating the vagus nerve can result in amplified parasympathetic reactions. This leads to systemic vasodilation and faintness from lack of blood to the brain. Another possibility is that the body would experience a sympathetic rebound effect. Ordinarily a vasovagal reaction is unpleasant but not dangerous — unless the blood vessels are not equipped to handle a rapid demand to dilate and constrict.”

As massage therapists represent an increasingly strong presence in healing, the importance of understanding the Three P’s continues to rise. We are learning that Physiology, Pathology and Pharmacology are all influenced by manual tissue manipulation. It is possible to modify a massage treatment to complement and balance the medication a client takes. This knowledge and subsequent modification in a therapist’s techniques will work not only to the client’s benefit, but also to advance the safety and efficacy of the massage profession.

Recommended Study
Advanced Anatomy & Pathology, Pharmacology for Massage

Posted by Nicole at 04:44 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org <http://www.integrative-healthcare.org/>