CBS 19 - The Eye of East Texas News - Massage Therapy

Massage Therapy

In the 1800's massage therapy was promoted for a variety of health problems. But as traditional medical therapies advanced, it fell out of favor. Now it's enjoying a resurgence because many Americans are finding it can provide a touch of healing

Margaret Strout was injured in a car wreck 6 weeks ago.

She thought her neck and back pain would never go away.

"I wasn't sleeping. I was having muscle spasms all night," Strout commented. "I couldn't get comfortable and it affected my job during the day because I was continuing to have them," she added.

She tried anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxers to no avail. Then her doctor recommended massage therapy.

Margaret was skeptical.

"I'm thinking, you know, how is this going to help me?," Strout asked herself.

We often think of massage as a luxury in upscale spas or health clubs. But there's more to it than luxury.

"The biggest reason is for pain. Another one is anxiety, depression and a very big reason is stress relief," said licensed massage therapist Deborah de Wet.

Massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system which allows the body to relax. It also improves circulation and joint flexibility.

At your first appointment, the therapist will ask you about your symptoms, your medical history and your expected outcomes from the therapy.

But not everyone will get the same therapy. That's because there are over 80 different massage therapies.

"Somebody who has had a car accident is very different to a massage I would give to somebody who has Parkinson's or even different to somebody who has arthritis," explained de Wet.

After her first massage, Margaret noticed a difference.

"That night I slept really good. It was the first time I had slept really good since I had the car accident," Strout stated.

Massage shouldn't replace your regular medical care but this laying on of the hands can be a welcome addition.

Be sure to look for licensed massage therapists who practice a variety of massage therapies. The training is rigorous. They have to complete 500 hours in the classroom, perform 50 hours of massages and then pass the national licensing exam.

Web exclusive information:

Many Americans are discovering the benefits of massage therapy as a complement to their medical care. According to a 2007 American Massage Therapy Association survey, almost 25% of all adult Americans had at least one massage in the previous year. More and more people are beginning to appreciate the health benefits of massage.

The biggest reason: stress management. Massage can relieve tension in your muscles and most people use it for relaxation, relief of stress and anxiety, or to reduce muscle soreness. Massage may also boost your immune system and cause a release of endorphins - the body's natural painkiller. It may increase joint flexibility, improve circulation, reduce spasms and cramping, and help athletes prepare for or recover from a strenuous workout.

Though there are over 80 different massages to choose from, it is important that you review the credentials of the massage therapist you select. All therapists must complete 500 classroom hours and perform 50 massages before they are allowed to sit for the national certifying exam. It is important that the appropriate massage be given for a particular problem.

For more information:

http://www.massagetherapy.com/learnmore/benefits.php

http://www.webmd.com/balance/massage-therapy-styles-and-health-benefits

http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/massage/SA00082/METHOD=print

http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=83146&pf=3&page=1