As massage therapists, we are familiar with what constitutes a healthy lifestyle. We recommend these applications all the time. But how easy is it to get caught in the hubbub of life, and ignore our own health? A massage therapist shares his story, and encourages us to stay conscious of our body and the environment that we function in.

Common sense dictates that a therapist can only give to their client what is present within themselves. This can present a challenge to many bodyworkers, because many of us are so tuned in to “caretaking” that we neglect our own self care. It can become routine to skip a daily meditation, wolf down a fast food burger and speed through traffic to get to the spa - where eight back to back clients await your services. The “caretaker syndrome” describes the pitfall of putting others needs before our own and often leads to burnout or illness.

In the May 2005 issue of Acupuncture Today, Certified Massage Therapist David J. Razo shares his life changing experience in an article entitled “A Lesson Learned the Hard Way: Caring for Patients Means Caring for Yourself”. In this article, Mr. Razo describes his emotional journey as his dangerously high blood pressure (220/120) landed him a trip to an emergency room and subsequent hospital admission.

Mr. Razo’s predominant reflection was on simultaneously fostering the health and well-being of himself and that of his clients. In observing the environment of the hospital and noting its impact, the idea that everything one is surrounded with contributes to the healing process really hit home. His awareness of the used alcohol swabs littering the floor, the institutionalized bluish-green wall color and the burials at the cemetery just outside his window escalated to a broader understanding of the effect a healing environment has on the immune system.

A new zest for creating a healing space was compounded by the admission that he was good at giving advice and poor at following it. In all of this reflection, it became apparent that he had allowed all of the healthful lifestyle habits (the very ones he suggests to his clients) erode. In keeping a busy schedule, being hurried became his norm. Stopping to smell the roses, exercise or eat a healthful meal were just words that he repeated to help others - they were no longer a part of who he was. This groove is easy for any healthcare practitioner to fall into. It requires constant self checking to ensure that the inner self is not only heard, but being joyfully nurtured.

Mr. Razo recovered from his chest pain and high blood pressure scare, and is now successfully managing his health. According to Mr. Razo, “…that TLC we nourish our patients with also needs to be directed toward us…take the time to quiet your mind and feel the wind brush past your face.” Wise words from a bodyworker recovering from the “caretaker syndrome.”

Posted by Nicole at 05:54 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

A practitioner of Tantra does everything with absolute presence. The emphasis is on connection to and immersion in every moment. So sex is a Tantric practice when it is experienced in this way - this includes sensual touch and massage. There are a lot of things that create separation in sex - being goal-orientated or trying to get a ‘result’, anxieties about ‘performance’, having an idea in one’s mind about how sex ought to be or ‘what works’, guilt/feeling you shouldn’t enjoy sex, being distracted e.g. by what happened at work today, unresolved issues within the relationship etc. etc….

I read an article in a magazine recently in which couples were talking about their sex lives. One male partner said proudly of sex with his wife “we have become more efficient at sex - because we know what works ” - jeez!!
Tantric touch, massage or sex is not something you do to somebody. But it can become corrupted. I have had clients (predominantly male) who want to learn Tantric massage as if it is something you do to a woman. They are the guys who say “I just want the woman to have pleasure. That is what gives me pleasure” Call me a cynic but I interpret this statement as “I am an egomaniac. I am validated by feeling I am a good lover. Yet I am shut down. And the idea of just being one with another person is terrifying.”

GETTING HIGH
A lot of neo-Tantric groups, teachings and practices such as Tantric massage are a little bit like taking ecstacy. They create a high and a sense of being really open and connected. This can really plant a seed of how life can be so they can be a positive experience if they lead a person towards personal and spiritual growth. But you have to be able to be open and connected while waiting for the train, travelling to work, getting the groceries, cooking dinner etc. as well .

REGARDING KUNDALINI & CHAKRA CONSCIOUSNESS

You can awaken sexual chi and circulate it through the body and it has great health giving benefits. The kundalini however however and its journey through the chakras takes a little more work. Without going into too much detail think of the firing process and yin convergance - undoing the conditioning and returning to pure consciousness - that is the process of awakening the chakras. It is through the letting go of beliefs, opinions, false sense of self - everything that creates separateness that awakens the kundalini. Awakening is experienced on an energetic level - remember in class when Sam had that moment of letting go of a deeply held belief and he felt an energetic opening. In Tantra the conditioned mind is known as ‘differentiating mind’ and “when the differentiating mind is lulled and sleeps, kundalini awakens” I LOVE THAT LINE - SO TRUE!

So kundalini - its a bit more than moving sexual energy. Psychological transformation is needed exactly the kind of stuff we studied all last year. It is the letting go of what ever separates us from really being in the moment that is true Tantric practice. Tantric Hi Ross

Thanks for sending the article.

A practitioner of Tantra does everything with absolute presence. The emphasis is on connection to and immersion in every moment. So sex is a Tantric practice when it is experienced in this way - this includes sensual touch and massage. There are a lot of things that create separation in sex - being goal-orientated or trying to get a ‘result’, anxieties about ‘performance’, having an idea in one’s mind about how sex ought to be or ‘what works’, guilt/feeling you shouldn’t enjoy sex, being distracted e.g. by what happened at work today, unresolved issues within the relationship etc. etc….

I read an article in a magazine recently in which couples were talking about their sex lives. One male partner said proudly of sex with his wife “we have become more efficient at sex - because we know what works ” - jeez!!
Tantric touch, massage or sex is not something you do to somebody. But it can become corrupted. I have had clients (predominantly male) who want to learn Tantric massage as if it is something you do to a woman. They are the guys who say “I just want the woman to have pleasure. That is what gives me pleasure” Call me a cynic but I interpret this statement as “I am an egomaniac. I am validated by feeling I am a good lover. Yet I am shut down. And the idea of just being one with another person is terrifying.”

GETTING HIGH
A lot of neo-Tantric groups, teachings and practices such as Tantric massage are a little bit like taking ecstacy. They create a high and a sense of being really open and connected. This can really plant a seed of how life can be so they can be a positive experience if they lead a person towards personal and spiritual growth. But you have to be able to be open and connected while waiting for the train, travelling to work, getting the groceries, cooking dinner etc. as well .

REGARDING KUNDALINI &CHAKRA CONSCIOUSNESS

You can awaken sexual chi and circulate it through the body and it has great health giving benefits. The kundalini however however and its journey through the chakras takes a little more work. Without going into too much detail think of the firing process and yin convergance - undoing the conditioning and returning to pure consciousness - that is the process of awakening the chakras. It is through the letting go of beliefs, opinions, false sense of self - everything that creates separateness that awakens the kundalini. Awakening is experienced on an energetic level - remember in class when Sam had that moment of letting go of a deeply held belief and he felt an energetic opening. In Tantra the conditioned mind is known as ‘differentiating mind’ and “when the differentiating mind is lulled and sleeps, kundalini awakens” I LOVE THAT LINE - SO TRUE!

So kundalini - its a bit more than moving sexual energy. Psychological transformation is needed exactly the kind of stuff we studied all last year. It is the letting go of what ever separates us from really being in the moment that is true Tantric practice. Tantric massage can be good practice though same as meditation, Tai Chi, yoga, dancing …. can be good practice though same as meditation, Tai Chi, yoga, dancing ….

By Litza Hall

Massage therapists have many modalities to choose from to help relax hypertonic muscles. However, the gentle and effective technique of strain counterstrain is one of the best ways to convince shortened tissue to lengthen.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

Often forgotten by bodyworkers, strain counterstrain (SCS) is a positional release technique that is invaluable when working with clients experiencing acute muscular pain. Several professions have embraced SCS, and it is one of the first applications therapists can try to help someone with an extremely tender location that has a limited range of motion.

In the January 26, 2009 edition of ADVANCE for Physical
Therapists and PT Assistants, Tom Dalonzo-Baker, PT describes how this positional release technique helped his client. According to Dalonzo-Baker, a patient scheduled for disc herniation surgery in four days entered his clinic bent over backward in agonizing back pain. He knelt down and allowed her body to relax, bent backward, over his knee. While thinking of how to best help her, he noticed that the woman’s posture relaxed. After several minutes, the woman stood erect for the first time in three weeks.

Dalonzo-Baker postulates that positioning her body further into the restriction allowed her to stand upright. Moving away from the restriction is thought to reduce aberrant afferent impulses sent to the spinal cord – and characterize the value of strain counterstrain technique.

About SCS
Strain counterstrain is a manual massage technique for relieving musculoskeletal spasms and pain. A positional release technique, SCS was developed in 1981 by the osteopathic physician Dr. Lawrence Jones. It is a gentle and safe technique that relieves spinal or other joint pain by passively shortening the affected muscle areas.

Repetitive or acute strains can lead to the development of painful tender spots. Dr. Jones identified the most common tender points that result from an abnormal reflex or unnatural movement. SCS focuses on correcting abnormal neuromuscular reflexes by finding the client’s position of comfort and determining at what point his/her tenderness diminishes. SCS involves:

· Having the client hold his/her position of comfort for approximately 90 seconds

· Then, the client is slowly brought out of this position, allowing the body to reset its muscles to a normal level of tension

· SCS is well-tolerated because it positions the recipient opposite his/her restricted barrier and towards the position of greatest comfort

An Explanation
Various scientists have offered explanations as to why SCS is so effective. Written in the 1970s, Irwin Korr’s work on muscle spindles and facilitated segments provides a solid rationalization for SCS. According to Korr, the counterstrain point is on the opposite side of a strained or suddenly stretched joint, otherwise known as the over-shortened side. The physiology that actually occurs on this side is a sudden shortening followed by a rapid return to normal length. On the strained side, the muscle spindles are recruited to protect the rapidly lengthening muscle from damage, creating an immediate reflex contraction. This muscle can then get stuck in a functionally shortened position.

During an SCS session, the practitioner palpates to identify active tender points related to hypertonic musculature. When the appropriate position is held during SCS, the muscles gain strength and diminish in tenderness. The proprioceptor nerves register the changes in the position of the muscle and enable it to remain in this neutral position even when the force applied by the practitioner has been removed.

Applications
In addition to restoring range of motion, strain counterstrain can help alleviate pain and discomfort in muscles and joints. Some examples of when to consider SCS for a client include:

· Post-injury pain
· Whiplash
· For a child or elderly person in pain
· Neck and back pain
· Fibromyalgia

Learning the strain counterstrain technique better equips massage therapists to help their clients overcome different kinds of pain. Designed to correct traumatically induced aberrant reflex changes that hold a dysfunctional muscular pattern, SCS is an excellent first choice for dealing with extreme discomfort. As witnessed in Dalonzo-Baker’s client with back pain, finding someone’s most comfortable position can bring them the breakthrough relief they are hoping to find.

Recommended Study:
Fibromyalgia and Massage
Myofascial Release
Sports Massage

References:

http://www.articlecity.com/articles/health/article_5788.shtml, Strain Counter-Strain, Sharon Hopkins, Retrieved February 1, 2009, Icthus.net, October 2006.

http://www.chiroweb.com/mpacms/dc/article.php?id=9223, “Strain-Counterstrain, Marc Heller, DC, Retrieved February 1, 2009, Dynamic Chiropractic, June 2003.

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B758B-4KHC39W-4&_user=10&_rdoc=1&_fmt=&_orig=search&_sort=d&view=c&_acct=C000050221&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=10&md5=e10aabfe6b671d7c5482f91319879702, Immediate effects of the strain/counterstrain technique in local pain evoked by tender points in the upper trapezius muscle, Albert Atienza Meseguer, et al, Retrieved February 1, 2009, Clinical Chiropractic, September 2006.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/physical-therapy/specific-manual-physical-therapy-techniques, Specific manual physical therapy techniques, Robert J. Daul, MPT, Retrieved February 1, 2009, Spine-health.com, 2009.

http://www.massagetherapy101.com/massage-techniques/strain-and-counter-strain.aspx, Strain / Counter Strain, Retrieved February 1, 2009, massagetherapy101.com, 2009.

Mosher, Nathaniel, DPT, PT, CSCS, Empowered Patients, ADVANCE for Physical Therapists and PT Assistants, January 26, 2009; 32-33.

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

As both a healthcare practitioner and educator, learn how massage therapists can help offer symptom relief to clients with irritable bowel syndrome.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

Dealing with chronic digestive problems is frustrating, especially when medical intervention offers little help. Affecting up to 55 million Americans, one of the more common chronic digestive problems is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Because it is so common, most bodyworkers will have at least one client suffering from IBS. In and of itself, relaxation-based massage can help IBS sufferers. However, several additional strategies for supporting bowel health and relieving symptoms helps massage therapists empower their clients with IBS.

About Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Previously known as spastic colon, approximately one in five American adults has IBS. While its symptoms are usually not as severe as the more serious intestinal diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, IBS can dramatically interfere with someone’s quality of life. Despite its prevalence, many people suffer silently because of the embarrassing symptoms, the most common of which are:

· Abdominal cramping
· Bloating
· Flatulence
· Diarrhea
· Constipation
· Alternating diarrhea and constipation
· Mucus in the stool

Although IBS does not injure the intestines or increase colon cancer risk, its symptoms can mask or be concurrent with other more serious diseases. Therefore, chronic bowel problems are always best evaluated by a physician prior to being labeled as IBS.

Experts do not agree on the origin of irritable bowel syndrome. Three proposed physiological causes for IBS are:

1. Muscular – Normally, the intestine walls’ muscles contract and relax in a coordinated rhythm to move food from the stomach through the intestinal tract. However, the intestines of someone with IBS tend towards a longer and stronger contraction time, resulting in cramping pain, gas, bloating and diarrhea. When the relaxing action of the intestine’s muscles dominates, the passage of food slows down and results in constipation.

2. Neurological – Since the nervous system regulates muscular contraction and bowel sensation, a neurological imbalance may be behind IBS. A typical reason for IBS pain is an enhanced sensitivity to the normal stretching of the intestines as food or gas makes their way through.

3. Hormonal – Since women are twice as likely to have IBS as men, some believe that hormones are a causative factor. Additionally, the symptoms of IBS are often worse during or surrounding a woman’s menses.

Massage Therapy Intervention
For a majority of sufferers, IBS symptoms are aggravated by certain foods and stress. However, most experts agree that stress and food sensitivities do not cause irritable bowel syndrome. Despite its unidentified origins, IBS can be controlled largely with dietary adjustments and stress management.

For massage therapists, helping clients release stress typically has a dramatic effect on lessening unwanted intestinal symptoms. For this reason, a traditional relaxation-based Swedish massage lessens IBS severity in many people. Additional suggestions for improving intestinal health include:

· Deep Breathing – Deep breathing can be taught during a massage session and should be routinely practiced by the client. Instead of breathing from the chest only, diaphragmatic breathing allows the belly to expand and contract fully, which helps relax local muscles fostering more normal bowel activity.

· Probiotics – Those with IBS may be overrun with symptom-causing bacteria. Found in yogurt and dietary supplements, probiotics are the good bacteria that occupy the intestines. For many sufferers, supplementing with probiotics improves the intestine’s bacterial balance, which ultimately eases symptoms.

· Heat – Because heat expands and thus relaxes muscles, applying a hot pack over cramping intestines often provides immediate pain relief. Additionally, heat’s ability to induce relaxation makes it a wise choice for preventing the stress buildup that typically precipitates an IBS attack. In addition to beginning a massage session with a hot pack on the lower belly, encourage your client to use one at home.

Because stress aggravates IBS, receiving regular relaxation-based massages typically reduces the frequency and severity of irritable bowel syndrome’s symptoms. However, giving your clients the tools to help themselves proves invaluable. By instructing people with IBS to practice a regular deep breathing routine, supply their intestines with good bacteria and apply heat to their lower abdomen, you can help your client gain control over their own intestinal health.

Recommended Study:
Advanced Anatomy and Physiology
Swedish Massage for Professionals

References:

http://www.massagemag.com/ExtraEdit/133/IBS.php, Stress Makes People Prone To Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Retrieved September 3, 2008, medicalnewstoday.com, 2008.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/irritable-bowel-syndrome/DS00106, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Retrieved September 2, 2008, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2008.

http://www.ultimatewatermassage.com/herbal-heat-therapy/big-pack-heating-IBS.htm, Therapeutic Heat for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Retrieved September 3, 2008, Ultimate Water Massage, 2008.

http://www.webmd.com/ibs/, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Health Center, Retrieved September 2, 2008, WebMD LLC, 2008.

Posted by Editors at 03:54 PM

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

This article describes a study done in Sweden on the effectiveness of massage on those suffering with chronic pain. This sizeable study (117 participants) is done from a subjective perspective and would be a great source of information to relate to a client who is tentative about trying massage for chronic pain.

Massage significantly improved self-rated health, mental energy and muscle pain in people with chronic musculoskeletal pain, according to a recent study.

“A Randomized Clinical Trial of the Treatment Effects of Massage Compared to Relaxation Tape Recordings on Diffuse Long-Term Pain” was conducted by staff at the Uppsala University Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, in Uppsala, Sweden.

One-hundred-seventeen subjects with long-term, diffuse (spread out) musculoskeletal pain participated in the study. Each subject had pain that had lasted for at least three months and was not caused by a specific disease or condition.

Participants were randomized to either a massage or relaxation group. Subjects in the massage group received anywhere from six to 10 massages, each lasting 30 minutes. Subjects received the massages one to three times per week. Participants received an average of seven massages. One person administered all massages, and each session was adjusted to meet subjects’ individual pain thresholds.

Subjects in the relaxation group listened to a relaxation tape twice a week for five weeks. The tape instructed them to tense and relax the muscle groups and breathe slowly and regularly.

Questionnaires regarding the subjects’ age, gender, smoking habits, country of birth, marital status and profession were filled out before, immediately after and three months following the study. A self-rated health questionnaire and rating scales for mental energy and muscle pain were also administered at these times.

Results of the study showed that, during treatment, there was a significant improvement in self-rated health, mental energy and muscle pain for subjects in the massage group as compared to those in the relaxation group.

“For all three outcome measures, massage was significantly more effective during treatment, even after controlling for other possible factors,” state the study’s authors.

However, at the three-month follow-up evaluation these improved scores had reverted back to their initial levels.

“This lack of long-term benefits could be due to the short treatment period or treatments such as these do not address the underlying causes of pain,” state the study’s authors. “Future studies of long-term pain should include longer treatment periods and post-treatment follow-up.”

- Source: Uppsala University Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, in Uppsala, Sweden. Authors: Dan Hasson, Bengt Arentz, Lena Jelveus and Bo Edelstam. Originally published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 2004, Vol. 73, pp. 17-24.

Posted by Ralph at 04:20 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org www.integrative-healthcare.org/>

More than 17 million cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery procedures were performed in 2007, and the figures continue to rise even in the face of economic downturns. Discover how massage speeds the healing and eases the swelling, pain and stiffness caused by these procedures.

by Linda Fehrs, LMT

Whether plastic surgery is utilized for health purposes or cosmetic reasons, the aftereffects are the same for everyone – pain, swelling, scarring, heightened anxiety and, at times, depression. In some cases, medication may be prescribed for the pain and anxiety. But there are also other options – options that can help reduce the dosage or length of time of drugs are used, as well as aid in the healing process.

An increasing number of plastic surgeons are looking at the feasibility of using massage therapy in both pre and postoperative situations, and either hiring a massage therapist as part of the staff or partnering with trained massage therapists in private practice. Some surgeons are even promoting massage therapy services as a part of an overall offering.

Reducing Anxiety and Stress
Prior to getting plastic surgery, the client often has anxiety or stress about the procedure. One of the primary benefits of massage is a reduction of stress. A plastic surgeon recommending or providing massage before surgery may market it as a luxurious bonus in a spa type setting or simply refer a client to a licensed massage therapist. Numerous studies over the years have shown that massage therapy increases the levels of endorphins and serotonin in the body, thus reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Massage also reduces certain hormone levels such as cortisol, which is responsible for increased stress.

Postoperative Benefits of Massage
· Eases Pain – The anticipated pain after plastic surgery may cause anxiety in people having the procedure. For the most part, the doctor will prescribe anti-pain medication for the days immediately following the procedure. Started a few weeks after surgery, massage has been shown to interfere with the pain receptor signals to the brain. Also, the use of contrast therapy (using alternating cold and warm packs) can ease the pain caused by swelling and the muscle tightness caused by the surgery.

· Reduces Swelling – The benefits of lymphatic drainage massage (LDM) techniques have long been known to reduce the edema caused by the aftereffects of mastectomies, which often require the removal of adjacent lymph nodes and cause a reduction in the flow of lymph fluids. LDM mimics the pulse and flow within the lymph system. It helps to move stagnant fluids out of interstitial body tissue and into lymphatic vessels, thus both reducing the edema and stimulating the immune system.

· Softens Skin and Reduces Scarring – Part of the body’s own healing process is to protect an injured site from further harm. The physiological process involved does not recognize that the injury or intrusion is from a surgeon’s scalpel or a mugger’s knife. Though the mind understands the difference between cosmetic enhancement and assault, the body only feels pain and an interruption of its normal processes, and seeks to recover. This results in an increased production of collagen fibers which, if over produced, form highly visible hypertrophic or keloid scars. Massage therapy done locally on newly healed scar tissue can reduce and soften this buildup of tough fibrous tissue. Collagen will soften using warmth resulting from touch therapies such as Swedish massage or localized cross friction techniques.

· Speeds Up Healing – Massage speeds up the overall healing process by helping to eliminate the buildup of toxins that occur after plastic surgery and increasing the circulation of blood to the area that brings nutrients to both the skin and its underlying layers of tissue. The body, in an attempt to protect itself against further injury from intrusion will, after surgery, withdraw blood from the area, retaining the life sustaining fluid for internal organs. This can lead to a deterioration of the affected tissue and a temporary deadening of nerve endings. By encouraging a healthier blood flow, massage can help to return nourishment and flexibility to the affected area. Massage therapy also helps build up the immune system, thus helping to speed up the overall healing process.

· Lifts Spirits – Between the postoperative pain, swelling and high expectations people have of plastic surgery, it is likely they will experience some depression. Massage therapy has, time and time again, shown itself to be beneficial in making people feel better about themselves.

Working With a Plastic Surgeon
If you are interested in working in conjunction with a plastic surgeon, make sure you brush up on your anatomy, physiology and pathology. You should also know the effects of drugs used before and after surgery, and how they may be affected by massage. Be familiar with medical terms and procedures and be aware of what can go wrong after surgery. Furthermore, it is important to keep an open and professional three-way communication with the surgeon, the client and yourself, including maintaining accurate intake and SOAP notes.

Precautions
Massage should not be part of postoperative treatment until the client gets clearance from the surgeon or primary care physician. Depending on the procedure done, massage may begin as early as a few days after surgery, or may have to wait until 3 to 4 weeks later. If there are stitches, massage will have to wait until they are removed.

Reconstructive surgery is sometimes performed after surgery to remove cancerous tumors or in mastectomies. Massage, which historically has been advised against in these circumstances, is beginning to gain recognition as a viable adjunct therapy. However, it is still advised not to use massage on active tumors, recent incisions or on patients undergoing radiation.

Whether a person has undergone plastic surgery for personal image enhancement or because of medical necessity, the integration of massage therapy to pre and postoperative care offers both psychological and physical benefits. For some, this may be the first time they are experiencing massage in a therapeutic setting. And who knows, they may become long-term clients!

Recommended Study:
Advanced Anatomy and Pathology
Advanced Anatomy and Physiology
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Medical Errors
Pharmacology for Massage
Swedish Massage

References:

Eppley, Barry, MD. “Massage and Plastic Surgery at Ology Sp.” 06 January 2008. Explore Plastic Surgery. 5 Mar 2009 http://exploreplasticsurgery.com/category/massage-therapy/.

French, Ramona Moody. Milady’s Guide to Lymph Drainage Massage. Clifton Park, New York: Milady Publishing, 2004

Press Release, “Plastic Surgery Procedures Maintain Steady Growth in 2007.” 25 March 2008. American Society of Plastic Surgeoss. 5 Mar 2009 http://plasticsurgery.org/Media/Press_Releases/Plastic Surgery_Procedures_Maintain_Steady_Growth_in_2007.html.

Pruitt, Elana. “Treating Your Health to a Massage.” PlasticSurgery.com. 5 Mar 2009 http://www.plasticsurgery.com/microdermabrasion.treating-your-health-
to-a147.aspx.

Staff Writers, “Massage After Cosmetic Surgery - Are You a Good Candiate?.” 23 August 2008. LocateADoc.com. 5 Mar 2009 http://www.locateadoc.com/articles/massage-after-cosmetic-surgery-are-
you-a-good-candidate-1457.html.

Stevens, Grant, MD. “Hypertrophic Scars and Keloids.” 08 October 2002. Breast Health Online. 5 Mar 2009 http://www.breasthealthonline.org/cgi-bin/mwf/topic_show.pl?tid=46478.

Posted by Editors at 12:32 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

Discover six techniques that can safely be used on those who are experiencing the discomforts of aging, and find out five special precautions and contraindications to be aware of regarding this growing population.

by Linda Fehrs, LMT

Studies have shown that the lack of touch can lead to severe psychiatric or physical problems, and even death in infants. Among the elder population it can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and lethargy. Lack of caring touch can result in a diminishing quality of life for anyone. Babies cry out to us for touch, but the touch-deprived senior often remains silent. It is important for those in the bodyworking professions to reach out to those who perhaps need them the most.

A frail elder would be defined as someone requiring assistance in taking care of every day needs such as dressing, bathing and eating. They may not be able to move around freely on their own, perhaps needing a walker or wheelchair to assist in mobility. Often they are living with family members or reside in some kind of assisted living facility.

For the very frail client, any vigorous or deep massage is generally contraindicated. But there are also many modalities with a lighter touch that provide similar health benefits, as well as offer comfort and compassion to the recipient. For many frail elders a typical Swedish massage may be too stimulating, and care needs to be taken regarding the use of techniques that might influence the effects of medication. They may be taking medication for blood pressure, a blood thinner, insulin for diabetes or undergoing a regimen of chemotherapy. A thorough intake and evaluation is important in determining what techniques will be most beneficial to your client.

Less Invasive, Yet Effective Techniques
1. Cranial Sacral Therapy – is a gentle, non-invasive technique that uses a light touch to encourage the healthy movement of cerebrospinal fluid. This method of bodywork is used to reduce the negative effects of stress, enhance overall health and improve resistance to disease. It has also been shown to reduce problems associated with pain as well as some neurological dysfunctions, because of its affect on the brain and spinal cord.

2. Lymphatic Drainage – is used to stimulate the movement of lymph, which in turn helps to rid the body of inflammatory and toxic material. This technique uses a rhythmic, light touch to enhance the body’s own gentle pumping action within the lymphatic system. Lymphatic drainage massage helps to enhance the immune system as well as to reduce pain.

3. Polarity Therapy – is a bodywork technique that is based on basic principles of energy. The body is gently manipulated to rebalance the negative and positive energies within the body. Polarity therapy also encourages living in harmony with nature and includes recommendations of improving ones diet and exercise.

4. Reflexology – is a modality originally based on an ancient Chinese therapy. It involves the application of pressure to specific areas in the foot, hands and ears, which correspond to various parts of the body. The applied pressure to these reflex zones in turn stimulates body organs and relieves areas of energetic congestion. Reflexology is used to reduce pain, increase relaxation and stimulate circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids, and has been found to be useful in stress related illness and emotional disorders. Reflexology can also be used in circumstances where areas of the body are traumatized or diseased to the extent that direct touch is contraindicated.

5. Shiatsu – a light compression technique, similar to acupressure, was developed in Japan and uses traditional acupuncture points which help to encourage the healthy flow of life energy as well as restore balance in the body. Shiatsu uses traditional five-element Chinese medicine, which shows a relationship between the earth’s natural rhythms and the human body. The technique produces a sense of relaxation while stimulating blood and lymphatic flow. In turn, this helps with pain relief and the strengthening of the body’s resistance to disease and discomfort.

6. Therapeutic Touch – is a non-invasive form of energy work based on ancient energy healing methods. Used mostly by nurses, it is also used by other bodywork professionals who are trained to feel or sense energy imbalances in the client. The therapist uses a light touch or holds the hand above the body, with the client generally seated. Therapeutic Touch has been used in a variety of medical situations, including the care of premature infants. It is known to induce a state of relaxation within minutes.

Five Precautions
1. Hot Stone Massage – it might seem gentle enough, but for those who are on certain pain medications, or who suffer from the effects of diabetes, they are less sensitive to heat and pain and may not be able to respond appropriately. Make sure you are well trained in this modality before using it on a frail or elderly client.

2. Accommodating Special Needs – whether the massage is conducted in your office, a client’s home, an assisted living facility, a hospital or hospice, care needs to be taken to accommodate the special needs of the individual. Preparation in the way of extra bolsters or pillows, a blanket for added warmth or lubricants for dry or fragile skin is very important.

3. Slower Mobility – depending on the modality or techniques used, you may want to limit the massage session to no more than a half hour, and allow extra time before and after the session to allow for slower mobility. Intake may take longer, your client may need more time to get undressed or there may be problems with mobility, getting on and off the table or in and out of the office.

4. Special Contraindications – would be to never work in an area that has received radiation therapy or that has a tumor.

5. The Usual Precautions Are Also Advices – such as avoiding black and blue areas, varicose or other distended veins, areas of recent surgery, rashes, etc. And if your client has a pacemaker or other implanted device, make sure you get an okay from his/her physician.

At any age massage therapy can be a benefit, but for the frail elderly it ameliorates some of the inevitable physical discomfort and pain that accompanies growing older. It helps us improve their mobility as well. Getting a regular massage helps in the emotional aspects of their lives as well. It has been shown to reduce the feelings of isolation, fear, anxiety and depression perhaps because it offers a gentle, nurturing touch to those who may live a life alone without close family or friends.

Consider providing your services as a massage therapist to nursing homes, assisted care facilities, hospitals and hospice programs. You will find it is rewarding in more ways than words can express.

Recommended Study:
Cranial Sacral Fundamentals
Healing Energy and Touch
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Polarity Therapy
Reflexology
Shiatsu Anma Therapy

Resources:

Catlin, LMT, Ann. “Serving Older Adults.” MJT Summer 2008: 111-121.

Finch, Mary Ann. Care Through Touch. New York: Continuum, 1999.

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 .

Posted by Editors at 02:06 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org

Migraine: The pain is on one side only, radiating mostly from the eye area, the pain is constant and can last for hours or days. Migraine appears to afflict people who are as one specialist describes “usually perfectionists, who want everything done just so and exactly on time.” This emotional stress may be the case in most instances.
Migraine can in some cases be linked with structural problems as well as emotional issues.
Jaw misalignment and injury to the coccyx can be the cause.
Some migraine sufferers respond well, when treated with the Bowen therapy NST and Bio- chemic tissue salts.

The common headache seems to be traceable to
Stress, work overload, inflexibility, emotional problems
Clenching jaw, grinding teeth, jaw misalignment, eyestrain, dehydration, hunger, lack of oxygen, incorrect work posture, old injury, food intolerance, toxins, pressure from air conditioning vents, perfumes, odours, new furnishings, tight glasses, mobile phone earpieces wireless connection, noise, yellow lights , personal worry, issue with work or people at work, illness, sinus, high blood pressure, medication, eyesight problems.
More often than not it is a combination of physical discomfort and emotional tension. Stress

Thousands of sufferers have experienced relief once they become aware and understand what they are doing to their body
Self awareness
Discussing your problems with a GP or trained therapist will help.

1. Eat and drink properly.
2. Get plenty of exercise, fresh air, laughter & fun
3. Avoid as much as possible, useless and needless worry, try relaxation or meditation.
4. Do you feel frequent resentment, anxiety or disappointment? Try to modify your standards a little. It is important to get satisfaction out of what you can have and can do.
5. Learn to be less frantic about minor details at work. Many people have days when they feel worn out and irritable and try to drive themselves beyond their limits, on these days delegate as much as you can to others till you feel you have the drive and energy to take over again.
6 You can’t change other people, you can only change yourself and your reactions to others; once you change yourself you will see the difference in others.

In short, all headaches can be a useful warning for you to make large and small changes in you life and learn how to live sensibly, give your body good nutrition, plenty of water & fresh air, exercise and sunlight, reduce stress and look forward to enjoying good health into a ripe old age.

The following headache relief technique and tips are extracts from my self help website www.click2revive.co.uk

Lights; Yellow flickering lights can be the problem asks for them to be changed for white light or daylight bulbs were ever possible. If you work near a window or have light in your eyes this will make you screw up your eyes which leads to tension, move your work to a different position.

Air conditioning vents; when you sit directly under air conditioning vents the cold air is being pressed onto your head it will start to feel like a ton weight by the end of the day. Move your work station if possible.

Incorrect working posture; sitting correctly when working on your computer will lessen the strain on you neck and shoulders this will help to reduce headaches, bad posture also restricts your breathing when you are slouched over you lungs can’t expand correctly and you don’t breath out fully so toxins cant be eliminated; Do some deep breathing and sit upright when working. www.click2revive.co.uk

Dehydration: Drink more water, when you work in air conditioning you need to drink little and often you are not aware of how much moisture you lose and the odd cup of tea is not enough, aim for at least 6/8 glasses per day plus your usual beverage, tea & coffee act as a diuretic try drinking a glass of water as you wait for the kettle to boil that way you will quench your thirst and then you can really enjoy that cup of coffee

Eye strain; Get you eyes tested; constant close work can change your eyesight

New building and furnishings; Can give off gasses, with sensitive people this can cause headaches: If you are doing any decorating at home or if there is new paint in your work place or furnishings; take an onion and chop it into quarters leave it on a plate in the room it will absorb the toxins and smells from the paint etc. leave for a few days then throw it away.

To help relieve a headache
Methods
1)
Use your fingertip or thumbs to press the area, press deep into the skin, rotate in small circles in the located area. You may feel some soreness, minor discomfort, tingling or tenderness. Each point is pressed firmly for approximately one minute as you press the point do some deep breathing, then stop pressing the point for five seconds repeat the procedures and work each point till relief is felt, you can work each point for up to 20 minutes. Drink a glass of water before and after treatment to re-hydrate the body and assist removal of toxins. Aim to drink at least 6 glasses of water per day.
2)
This point is situated in the depression level with the outside corner of the eye
Use two fingers on either side of your temple, press gently but firmly, rub in small circles.

You will find this point at the back of the skull.
Follow the two large vertical neck muscles up to the base of the scull where you will find two hollows.
Use three fingers and press gently but firmly and rub in small circles.

This point is situated at the back of the head in the middle of the base of the scull where there is a hollow.
Use one or two fingers and press gently but firmly, rub in small circles.

Rub a drop of lavender or peppermint on the middle of your forehead and on both temples

Have a large glass of water and do some deep breathing
Breathe in and hold for the count of 4 then slowly breathe out to the count of 8. Gentle rub the back of your neck and head as you breathe out.

As you can see that people who suffer from migrines find it hard to deal with, Massage can help to decrease the pain and pressure on the head. This is most helpful to staff when they are in an office as this helps them get on with their work rather than taking off to go home.

for all your corporate, onsite, workplace massages and sport events please visit www.therapy4u.biz

* There are many other therapies that will help you to relax i.e. Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Indian Head Massage, Shiatsu, Massage, Yoga, Hypnotherapy, Reiki, Bowen NST to name but a few.

Joyce Hardy Holistic Practitioner MICHT Hol.Dip. BTAA.IIAHS.MFHT
www.therapy4u.biz
© copyright 2008 Joyce hardy

What to do about HEADACHES
Are you one of the many people who experience recurring headaches?
Experts now believe that nearly all headaches are due to either the effects of muscle tension or dilated blood vessels in the head or to a combination of both.
About 90% of headaches are part of the body’s response to physiological and emotional stress, most of which you can help to control.
About 10 % of people suffer from headaches that are caused by organic troubles i.e. Infections, tumours, high blood pressure, Visit your GP to check any possible underlying medical disorders if you are suffering headaches which have not responded to self help.
Tension headaches; quite often start in the base of the skull or the back of the neck and spread all over the head
Posture problems usually set this type of headache off. Computer operators, book-keepers, draftsmen, factory worker, drivers etc who stare intently and bend over their work, staying in the same position for too long, this causes the neck and head muscles become rigid and go into spasm.
This can cause constriction of the blood vessels and their network of nerves, the decreased circulation then adds to the pain of the muscle spasm, you then have a headache.
Many of these problems can be eliminated by good posture and short breaks throughout the day, which will revive the body and get the circulation flowing.

Corporate massages, workplace or onsite massages are the best thing for staff as this helps them relax and when they relax more work can be done.
www.therapy4u.biz
Visit my free self help website www.click2revive.co.uk

© copyright 2008 Joyce hardy

Learn about a Japanese study confirming that a specific type of massage can have measurable results for lowering cholesterol levels.

by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.

Most massage therapists are knowledgeable about the range of benefits possible from their work. While the ability to deliver pain relief, induce relaxation and assist with healing injuries are some of the well-known strengths of massage therapy, the internal organs and tissues can also benefit. Although most people assume massage primarily influences muscles, tendons and fascia, research from Japan proves yet another way massage therapy supports a healthy body. In addition to medications, dietary changes and regular exercise, Japanese researchers have shown that massage therapy also has a place among approaches to reduce cholesterol.

About Cholesterol
A natural component of the body’s cells and blood, cholesterol is a soft waxy fat. An essential part of a healthy body, excessive amounts of cholesterol in the blood increase a person’s risk for cardiovascular disease, which can lead to stroke or heart attack. With too much cholesterol circulating in the blood, sticky clumps of plaque can attach along the artery walls, eventually capable of obstructing or blocking the flow of blood to the brain, heart and other organs. Heredity appears to make some more susceptible to high blood cholesterol, but increasingly sedentary lifestyles combined with diets high in saturated fats appear to be the main culprits.

The ranges and corresponding risk levels for total blood cholesterol are:

· Normal = 140 – 200 mg/dL

· Moderate Risk = 200 – 240 mg/dL

· High Risk = over 240 mg/dL

In general, total cholesterol is composed of three types of lipids: low density lipoproteins (LDL), high density lipoproteins (HDL) and triglycerides (TRI). Often referred to as the protective kind of cholesterol, HDL differs from the other two types of lipids because high levels of HDL are desirable. These three types of fat have a complex relationship and the level of each one is important when determining a person’s state of health. In general, high cholesterol is characterized by elevated LDL, normal or low levels of HDL and normal or elevated TRI.

Keeping Cholesterol Levels Healthy
The causes of high cholesterol are so variable; there are few health conditions or poor lifestyle habits that could possibly be excluded. Physicians usually advise the following adjustments to help bring cholesterol levels back to a balanced state:

1. Weight Reduction – If overweight, even small amounts of weight loss can shift cholesterol ratios to reduce total cholesterol. Weight loss is typically accompanied by lowered triglycerides and increased HDL levels.

2. Exercise – Regular physical activity by itself both reduces the risk of death from heart disease and enhances the effects of diet on LDL cholesterol levels. Moderate exercise three to five times per week can help lower blood pressure, promote weight loss in overweight individuals, reduce LDL and triglyceride levels and produce favorable levels of HDL.

3. Diet – Instead of foods high in calories, saturated fat, trans fatty acids and cholesterol, eating foods high in fiber, rich in antioxidants and abundant in Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce total cholesterol.

4. Stop Smoking – In addition to increasing blood pressure, decreasing exercise tolerance and increasing the tendency for the blood to clot, tobacco use also lowers the favorable kind of cholesterol, HDL.

Besides these lifestyle changes, physicians commonly prescribe medications to those with high cholesterol to prevent the accompanying risks. However, research from Japan demonstrates massage may be another valuable addition to help reduce cholesterol.

The Study
In an effort to evaluate the effects of massage on anxiety, the immune system and blood cholesterol levels, Japanese researchers examined participants receiving Anma massage before and after a 25-minute session. Results of the study compared baseline measures to post-massage measures, and there were significant improvement in all areas. As determined by blood tests, participants had lower total cholesterol levels after receiving Anma massage.

By focusing on the entire body, the subjects received a fully clothed Anma massage that combined pressure, friction and touch with deep tissue bodywork. The practitioners used the following techniques: effleurage, kneading with whole hands and kneading with thumbs along the muscle. Each massage followed a specific order, beginning with the head and neck, then moving to the shoulders, back and hips, upper limbs and the lower limbs. Study participants were asked to let the massage therapist know the most comfortable level of pressure.

An Explanation
Although the researchers did not propose a mechanism by which massage reduces total cholesterol, there is a reasonable explanation. Massage therapy’s relaxation of the autonomic nervous system is likely behind the seemingly miraculous effect of massage over cholesterol.

When stressed, a person’s internal body chemistry changes. As part of the autonomic nervous system’s fight or flight mechanism, one of those changes involves a release of cholesterol into the bloodstream. Thus, repeated life stressors keep the autonomic system active and continually flood the blood with cholesterol. Through the relaxation effect, massage can actually end the fight or flight response. By stopping the autonomic nervous system from pumping cholesterol into circulation, a person’s cholesterol level and subsequent risk for heart disease drops.

According to the American Heart Association, an estimated 106.7 million adults in the United States have total blood cholesterol values of 200 mg/dL and higher. To help bring their cholesterol back to a healthy range, lifestyle changes and medications are typically combined. Likely a result of the autonomic nervous system’s reaction to massage, Japanese researchers have supplied proof that massage therapy is a viable option for reducing high cholesterol.

Recommended Study:
Shiatsu Anma Therapy

References:

http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4506, Cholesterol Statistics, Retrieved January 2, 2009, American Heart Association, 2009.

http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4545, Cigarette Smoking and Cardiovascular Disease, Retrieved January 2, 2009, American Heart Association, 2009.

http://www.innerworksmassage.com/cholesterol.html, Putting Cholesterol in its Proper Place, Jane Christ, Retrieved December 30, 2008, b.savvy magazine, February/March 2004.

http://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jcam/2/1/59/_pdf, The Effects of Massage Therapy on the Immune, Hematological and Psychological State of Adult Subjects, Hiroko Kuriyama, et al, Retrieved December 31, 2008, Japanese Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2005.

http://www.massagemag.com/News/massage-news.php?id=4909&catid=238&title=research-exclusive-massage-boosts-mood-immune-function-and-relaxation, Research Exclusive: Massage Boosts Mood, Immune Function and Relaxation, Retrieved December 29, 2008, Massage Magazine, December 2008.

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/hypercholesterolemia-000084.htm, Hypercholesterolemia, Retrieved December 29, 2008, University of Maryland Medical Center, 2009.

Posted by Editors at 04:13 PM
© 2009 Institute for Integrative HealthCare Studies. This work is reproduced with the permission of the Institute. www.Integrative-Healthcare.org