The benefits of massage therapy go beyond the physical body. The efficacy of massage therapy in treating stress is well supported by research. Massage therapy helps to reduce emotional stress, which in turn will reduce or eliminate the production of stress chemicals in the body. Stress chemicals (the fight or flight response) can have negative effects on the body when produced over long periods of time. When certain massage techniques are applied slowly and rhythmically to the back or neck for example, we can help quiet the mind and bring a sense of body awareness back to the person. The communication of caring touch is also recognized by health professionals as an important part of both physical and emotional pain relief.
Massage Therapy includes:
-Hydrotherapy
-General Swedish Massage
-Breathing techniques
-Deep tissue massage
-Trigger Point Therapy
-Myofascial Release
-Lymphatic Drainage
-Joint Mobilization
-Stretching and strengthening exercises
-Self care advice
-Benefits of Massage Therapy
Some Facts about Massage Therapy:
-The practice of massage therapy is the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain. (Massage Therapy Act 1991)
-A Massage Therapist is a regulated health professional.
-Registered Massage Therapists have completed a 2-3 year diploma programme from a recognized massage therapy school and have successfully passed the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario’s registration exams.
-Most extended health plans provide full or partial coverage for treatments. Rehabilitative therapy, required as a result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident is fully covered by the auto insurer.
Therapeutic massage can address symptoms and provide relief for the following conditions:
-Muscular imbalances
-Back pain
-Nerve compression syndromes
-Chronic and acute pain
-Cancer
-Multiple Sclerosis
-Post surgical scar tissue
-Gastrointestinal disorders
-Headaches
-Immune system disorders
-Insomnia
-Motor vehicle accidents (whiplash)
-Myofascial pain
-Pregnancy associated symptoms
-Repetitive strain injuries
-Circulatory problems
-Sports injuries
-Stress
-Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Dysfunction and other jaw problems.