What is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy, also known as Swedish massage, is the most common form of massage therapy although especially in trades and labour intensive industries, remedial massage is the most commonly asked for massage therapy type.

Massage therapists use long, smooth strokes, kneading and other movements focused on superficial layers of muscle using massage oil or lotion.

How Does Massage Therapy Work?

Massage therapy improves circulation by bringing oxygen and other nutrients to body tissues.

It relieves muscle tension and pain, increases flexibility and mobility, and helps clear lactic acid and other waste, which reduces pain and stiffness in muscles and joints.

Why Do People Get Massage Therapy?

• Back pain
  
• Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis
  
• Stress relief and stress-related conditions
  
• Headaches and migraines
  
• Muscle and related conditions such as spasms, strains and sprains
  
• Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
  
• Circulatory and respiratory problems
  
• Post-injury and post surgical rehabilitation

Massage therapy relieves stress. It is thought to help the body's stress response by lowering levels of hormones such as cortisol.

Massage therapy also appears to enhance immune function.

Will Massage Therapy Hurt?

Massage therapy shouldn't hurt. Occasionally there is mild aching when the massage therapist applies pressure over "knots" and other areas of muscle tension. If the pressure is too strong for you, let the massage therapist know.

How Will I Feel After a Massage?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. Occasionally, people experience mild temporary aching for a day.

Precautions

Massage therapy is not recommended for certain people:

• People with infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds
  
• Immediately after surgery
  
• Immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor
  
• People prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage
  
• Pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage in pregnant women should be done by massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage.

Massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

For more information send us an email at bodypackage@live.com.au or call 03 6244 5990.