Rub Out Stress
Therapeutic Massage Soothes Stress And Pain

by Scott Eric Barrett

Massage isn't capable of curing any serious or life-threatening medical disorders, but it can provide welcome relief from the symptoms of anxiety, tension, depression, insomnia and stress.

The benefits of therapeutic massage include deep relaxation and the release of accumulated tension and toxins. This is key to the treatment of muscle spasms, pain and a multitude of ailments that are aggravated by stress. Other physical health benefits include greater joint flexibility, improved blood circulation and reduced edema (swelling), lower blood pressure, stronger immune system and relief from headaches. Mental and emotional benefits include satisfying the need for a caring and nurturing touch, reduced anxiety, a feeling of well-being and an increased awareness of mind-body connection. Some people find that it even relieves digestive disorders.

It's All About Stress

tress is a common problem in the modern world. Who has not felt the effects of a stressful day in the muscles of the neck or back? Elevated levels of stress generally translate into an inability to function at your peak.

A study conducted by Bowling Green State University in 1997 found that workplace massage could be beneficial. This study evaluated the effectiveness of 15-minute on-site massages while workers were seated in their chairs. Fifty-two employees who participated in the study had their blood pressures measured before and after the massage.

Although there was no control group, analysis showed a significant reduction in participants' systolic and diastolic blood pressure after receiving the massage.

Stress is one of the main reasons why consumers spend $4 billion to $6 billion a year on visits to massage therapists, according to an American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) analysis of a study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in November 1998. The study also showed that consumers seek massage therapy for health and medical reasons more than for sheer indulgence. Consumers aren't alone--healthcare providers increasingly are referring their patients to massage therapists.

"The data collected in 2001 indicates a significant ongoing shift in consumers' understanding of massage therapy," says AMTA President Steve Olson. "Healthcare providers and consumers alike realize that massage has great health benefits and use it for many health conditions."

The AMTA adds that more than twice as many adult Americans reported receiving one or more massages from a massage therapist in the past year as did in 1997 and 24 percent of Americans expect to get a massage from a massage therapist in the next 12 months, compared to 21 percent in 2000 who expected to do so.

A Permanent Part Of Healthcare

According to Health Industry Today, the cost of healthcare in the United States is estimated to reach $2.2 trillion by 2008--up from 1.6 trillion in 1998--so therapeutic massage isn't going to be rubbed out anytime soon.

Some insurance plans cover massage, but often cover it only if a doctor prescribes it as a treatment and only if the massage is performed in a doctor's office. More than half of the consumer survey respondents said they would like insurance to cover massage therapy. Fifty-three percent of these respondents said they would be more inclined to seek out massage on a regular basis if it were a covered expense.

Many companies (such as General Electric; Goldman Sachs; Young & Rubicam; Motorola; and American Airlines) are inviting massage therapists on-site as an employment perk and as a means of reducing stress and absenteeism. Seventy-eight of this country's 125 medical schools--including Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Georgetown and Johns Hopkins--now offer courses in alternative medicine, up from 27 in 1995.

An "Aged" Therapy

The healing powers of massage have been recognized since antiquity. In the fifth century B.C., the Greek physician Hippocrates wrote that his colleagues should be experienced "in rubbing ... for rubbing can bind a joint that is too loose, and loosen a joint that is too rigid." The ancient Chinese, Egyptians, and Romans also employed various forms of massage. However, the technique as we know it today didn't appear until the late 19th century when Per Henrik Ling, a Swedish gymnast, formulated the principles of Swedish massage.

There are dozens of specialized massage techniques in use today; however, not all massages are created equal. Most salons will offer any combination of the following five most popular types of massage therapy:

Swedish Massage

This holistic treatment, which addresses the person's whole psychological, physical and emotional well being, involves the kneading and manipulation of soft tissue (muscles, tendons and ligaments). Most practitioners use some kind of oil or lotion on the skin, so you will need to undress as your comfort level allows.

Deep-tissue massage is aimed at relieving chronic pain and involves a more intense application of strokes and a higher level of expertise than general Swedish massage. Deep-tissue massage may be done in a chair for a time-efficient session and may involve stretching, moist heat or cold packs. Benefits include improved circulation, relaxation and enhanced flexibility.

Shiatsu Massage

In this form of Japanese massage, the practitioner uses thumbs and palms to apply pressure to specific points on the body, along with gentle stretching and synchronized breathing. The acupressure points, of which there are roughly 600, lie along 14 clearly defined meridians or channels which each represent a major organ system. Energy is believed to flow through these points, and the applied pressure clears energy blockages so it can flow freely through the body and encourage healing.

This type of massage often is combined with other techniques. Usually, shiatsu is done on the floor or on a mat, so you may not need to undress.

Sports Massage

Specifically geared to the needs of athletes and sporty types, this technique uses elements of Swedish massage, as well as compression, pounding, trigger-point work, friction and stretching. It may be performed before activity for a stimulating effect or after activity to help release muscle spasms and knotted tissue, remove toxins and increase flexibility.

Reflexology

This is a Chinese form of acupressure that uses thumb pressure on certain points of the feet. These points represent 10 zones, or energy channels, that run vertically through the body so each body part corresponds to a precise point on the right or left foot.

For example, the practitioner might apply pressure to the big toe of your right foot in order to relax your neck. Reflexology relieves pain, improves circulation and reduces stress. You can keep your clothes on, there are no messy oils, and 20 minutes is enough to treat both feet.

Aromatherapy

This is a more refined and intensive form of holistic massage. The traditional strokes and techniques are combined with the use of diluted essential oils. Each oil is selected for its healing and emotion-inducing properties, so depending on the essence used, the massage can be stimulating, relaxing or stress relieving.

What To Expect

The first appointment generally begins with the massage therapist asking what prompted you to get a massage. Additionally you may be asked about your current physical condition, medical history, lifestyle, stress level and painful areas. The massage therapist may ask you about your health goals and what you hope the massage will do to help you achieve those goals.

For a full-body massage, you will be asked to remove clothing to your level of comfort. Undressing takes place in private, and a sheet, towel or gown should be provided for draping. The therapist will undrape only the part of your body being massaged, ensuring that your modesty is respected at all times. Your massage will take place in a comfortable atmosphere and on a cushioned table.

Remember that massage clients enjoy different techniques, so if your therapist is applying pressure too gently--or too roughly--it's your job to let them know. By communicating what you like, you should expect a peaceful, relaxing experience.