Alternative Forms of Healing: Massage
By: Lisa Waterman Gray ---- The Best Times – April 2006
It is widely known that massage is soothing. But increasing
numbers of people realize that it also may provide distinct health benefits.
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, massage assists in treating stress, allergies, anxiety, arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, digestive
disorders, headaches, sinusitis, insomnia, and sports injuries.
"Massage opens up circulation, which increases oxygen and nutrient flow and decreases pain," said Joan Schmeltz of Prairie Village, a licensed massage therapist with Integrative
Medical Specialists in Overland Park.
A May 2002 report released by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork found that, among older adults, massage increases circulation and improves
mobility as it increases coordination, strength, flexibility, and posture. In addition, it boosts energy and mental awareness.
In the research, seniors who had arthritis experienced increased motion and pain management, while patients with Alzheimer's disease were more relaxed and communicative. In
addition, the National Institutes of Health has determined that massage assists with pain management related to osteoporosis.
The University of Miami's Touch Research Institute found that massage increases cell activity that fights infections (Nov. 2005-Natural Health); and Prevention magazine (April
2005) noted that massage reduced anxiety, nausea, pain, fatigue, and depression among cancer patients at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.
"I've done 10- to 15-minute massages on necks, shoulders, and arms at the Little Sisters of the Poor while people sat in a recliner, and one woman told me she didn't need to use
her pain medications for two days after that,” Schmeltz said. "Massage reduces joint stiffness, and range of .motion can be increased, making you healthier and more mobile so you can enjoy life."
Massage keeps the lymphatic and immune systems healthier, in part because the lymphatic system is the body's cleaning system and stimulates endorphin production. These
treatments reduce negative stress hormones in the body that include norepinephrin and cortisol, while increasing the amount of endorphins.
Massage also may provide much-needed comfort when grieving for a loved one.
“The power of touch is so very important because a loved one has passed on," Schmeltz said. "Any positive, loving touch stimulates endorphins that are released during massage,
which promotes relaxation and decreases depression. By relaxing the body, it stimulates the brain."
Popular Types of Massage
In Swedish massage, a therapist employs long strokes, kneading motions, and active and
passive joint movement to promote relaxation.
Shiatsu/acupressure uses targeted finger pressure to release energy blockages that result in physical discomfort.
Deep tissue massage is especially helpful with inflammation-related pain such as arthritis, chronic muscle pain, and
rehabilitation. |
In reflexology, points on the hands and feet are stimulated to relieve
tension, improve blood supply, and normalize functions throughout the body.
Myofascial release works deep within the fascia/connective tissues that attach muscles and bones, to provide pain relief.
Gentle craniosacral therapy treats a range of problems that include head trauma due to injury and ADHD. It works by stimulating membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that protect the brain and spinal cord. |
How massage works
Massage strokes may range from light, slow, circular motion with the fingertips to a deep, kneading motion, gentle pressure over target areas, or hard pressure to ease knotted
muscles. Occasional massages soothe sore muscles and promote relaxation, but treatments scheduled each month or week have a cumulative effect. Clients who receive at least an hour of treatment experience maximum benefit.
Massage therapy clients have the ultimate say in how much clothing they wish to remove.
"Clients are totally in charge of how far they want to undress for a massage," Schmeltz said. "One option might be a T-shirt and leggings or street clothes. But some of the most
soothing strokes are long and gliding, and clothes may bunch up."
Massage therapy clients also have the ultimate say about frequency and length of treatment.
"In order to keep one client coming in regularly, I stick with half-hour sessions but, because they're more frequent, her body responds more quickly," Schmeltz said.
Norma Hultgren, of Overland Park, has received one-hour massages, once a month, for the last year and a half. She recommends giving it a try before deciding whether massage is
right for you.
"When I first went, my body ached everywhere,"'she said. "I used to take a lot of pain medication but I've used less since I started getting massage—and I just feel good going.
I leave with all my tension gone, and thoroughly relaxed."
Nancy Veskema, of Overland Park, has received massages off and on for three to four years.
"I'd heard so many people say how wonderful it is, and 1 do think it has many, many benefits," she said. "The relaxing, pampering part of massage is what drew me; that totally
relaxed feeling you get. I mainly go for stress relief, rather than on a regular schedule."
Finding and paying for a massage therapist
Choosing the right massage therapist is just as important as choosing the right physician. There's a trust factor involved, but massage with a particular therapist should be experienced before making a final decision.
Veskerna has been quite pleased with Schmelz's care during her first several visits.
"It's important to feel that your therapist is listening to what you want or need," she said. "And Joan is very pleasant and very down-to-earth."
Hour-long massage treatments in the Kansas City area typically cost from $50 to $80. Insurance may partially or totally cover massage treatments prescribed by a physician or
chiropractor who is listed on your plan, depending on deductibles and provisions of your individual policy.
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