Massage is a scientific method that involves the treatment of superficial areas of the body -that may include muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin, joints, or other connective tissue, as well as lymphatic vessels and organs of the gastrointestinal system; with physical, therapeutic and emotional purposes. Etymologically, the word comes from French and its literal meaning is "friction of kneading".
The patient's body is manipulated trough rubbing, kneading, stroking, slapping or vibration which can be structured or not depending of the modality of the massage (There are more than a hundred forms including the Eastern styles that are based on the body’s energy such as Acupressure; and the Western styles that are focused on anatomical knowledge like Swedish massage). The pressure applied is done with the hands, fingers, elbows, forearm, and feet, or employing any of the various mechanical devices.
Medical researches have proven that the benefits of massage include pain relief, released tension, reduced anxiety and depression, and temporarily decreased blood pressure and heart rate. In general, massage promotes relaxation and integral well-being. Scientifically, it is possible because massages may block pain signals to the brain, activating the parasympathetic nervous system which stimulates the release of endorphins and serotonin, preventing damage on the connective tissue and boosting the circulation of lymph.
Massage is performed by specialized Massage Practitioners and by other health care professionals, like: Physical Therapists, Athletic Trainers, Chiropractors, Osteopaths, etc. Massage therapists can be found in hospitals, nursing homes, fitness facilities, spas, beauty salons and many other places. Massage sessions involves the patient being treated while lying on a massage table, sitting upright in a massage chair, or lying on a pad on the floor. The massage subject may be fully, partly or unclothed (disrobed) and the body covered with sheets or towels.
Due to its clinical effectiveness, the massage demand has highly increased in the last decades. Massages are useful for decreasing the symptoms of several conditions of the muscles and nervous system, like arthritis; and it is excellent providing physical and mental relaxation. However, there are some contraindications, so it is always better to consult a doctor before taking a massage. Note that each person responds in a different way to massage and there isn't only one type which is best for all
Benefits of MassageAs a methodical manual application of pressure and movement to the soft tissue of the skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments; massages get curing by encouraging the flow of blood and lymph, alleviating tension, stimulating nerves, and loosening or stretching muscles and connective tissue to maintain them flexible. In general, massage can concern the entire body, but it has a major influence in the activity of the musculoskeletal, circulatory, lymphatic, and nervous systems.
Massage is helpful before physical exercise, facilitating blood circulation to assist the muscles to warm up. It is also helpful after workout, reducing waste elements -like carbonic acid or lactic- that appear in muscles and cause contractions and aches.
Massage augments the immunological resistance and assists to recovery from soft tissue injuries by incrementing blood flow to damaged zones. Recent investigations indicate that massage can control the levels of blood pressure, too.
Be aware that scientifically, the therapeutic massage does not treat, heal, prescribe or cure any ailment or disease, but it is an excellent supplementary healthcare. In any case, massage is never a replacement for a Physician.
Massages are not recommended in some situations (considered as "red flags" by therapists), including phlebitis, some cancer, infectious illness, skin diseases and some cardiac conditions
