What You Should Know About Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is an effective way to help heal injuries and relieve muscle tension. It is also helpful for people with chronic pain and for those suffering from anxiety. In addition, massage can increase the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain.
Typically, a session of massage therapy involves the patient laying on a table or chair and being draped in a sheet or towel. The therapist will ask about the patient’s health and then work on the muscles and soft tissues of the body. They may apply oil to the skin to aid relaxation and inhale aromas to relax the patient. A typical session of massage can last several hours.
Depending on the type of massage, the therapist will rub the client’s muscles and tendons in a specific order, or use various techniques to massage the body. Using their fingers, elbows, or knees, the therapist will manipulate the soft tissues of the body. Some massage treatments are more vigorous than others.
To avoid the risk of injury, the therapist must know the status of the patient’s medical condition. Moreover, the therapist must be trained and licensed. He or she must avoid applying excessive pressure to the patient, as too much pressure can cause the body to become stressed and can have no positive effect.
If you have a history of cancer or if you are taking anticoagulant medications, you should not have a massage. You should also avoid having a massage if you have open skin lesions, thrombosis, or phlebitis. Additionally, you should not receive a massage if you are infected with HIV or if you have a history of pulmonary embolism.
People who are pregnant should not have a massage. There are many studies that suggest that pregnancy can be helped by massage, but there are no conclusive studies that prove the effects of the therapy on the child’s development.
Pregnant women should not have a deep tissue massage. However, they can have a Swedish massage if they are experiencing muscle pain or tension.
If you are receiving a massage, you should make sure you wear loose clothing. The therapist will not be able to massage you properly if you have too much clothing on.
It is important that you discuss the pros and cons of having a massage with your physician before getting one. Also, discuss with your doctor any conditions you have, such as allergies.
Massage therapy is not a cure for any condition. It is a tool that can be used to treat certain medical conditions, including myofascial pain, arthritis, digestive disorders, and insomnia associated with menopause.
For some people, massage is also helpful after an injury or an accident. This is known as myofascial release therapy. With myofascial release therapy, a therapist uses massage to release tight areas of the fascia.
Before undergoing a massage, it is a good idea to find out if the therapist is properly licensed and trained. You can contact the massage therapist directly or ask a friend for advice.