|
Massage
is defined as the systematic manipulation of the soft tissues of the
body by manual or mechanical means. One of the earliest remedial
practices
of humankind, massage is said to be the most natural and instinctive
method
of relieving pain and discomfort. Effects of massage differ depending on
the
needs of the individual and the intentions with which the massage is
administered.
Almost
all healthy people have some condition that can be improved by
massage.
Regular massage will help:
 |
Relieve
stress and tension |
|
Relieve
mental and physical fatigue |
|
Relieve
muscular spasms and stiff joints |
|
Relieve
pain caused by strained muscles or irritated nerves |
|
Relieve
or prevent soreness from overexertion |
|
Relieve
headache, eyestrain and insomnia |
|
Improve
circulation and skin tone |
|
Improve
digestion, assimilation and elimination |
|
Improve
joint mobility |
|
Improve
the management of chronic pain |
|
Improve
lymphatic circulation and immune function
|
Massage
is a safe and beneficial health aid for everyone from infants to the
elderly,
except when certain contraindications are present. Massage may not be
appropriate,
or may require a physician's approval, with the following:
|
Fever
or infection |
|
Acute
inflammation or injury |
|
Phlebitis
or history of blood clots |
|
Heart
or lung conditions |
|
Uncontrolled
high blood pressure |
|
Uncontrolled
diabetes |
|
Certain
cancers |
Massage
is contraindicated during the first trimester of pregnancy because
it
can initiate spontaneous uterine contractions and lead to a miscarriage.
If you
are fewer than four
months pregnant, or if you are currently trying to become
pregnant, you should not receive massage. Once into your fourth month,
massage
is safe and effective in relieving the physical and emotional
stress of pregnancy. |
