ART Therapy - Active Release Techniques For Strength Athletes

At some point or another just about every bodybuilder and athlete on the planet is bound injure himself. Luckily, for most of us they're usually minor and don't result in anything more than a slight inconvenience for a few days. Sometimes though-especially if you're a powerlifter, strongman or competitive athlete-they can stretch on for weeks or months and even bring your training to halt. Some strength athletes though, have found lasting relief for formerly debilitating injuries through a technique known as Active Release Techniques (ART).


ART is a soft-tissue chiropractic technique that specifically targets the injured area. Feedback on ART has so far been very positive. Because of the way it's administered some people might say that ART therapy is a "massage," but make no mistake-it's not. ART therapy is a movement-based technique that is actually patented. It was developed in the early- to mid-nineties by a Colorado Chiropractor P. Michael Leahy, DC, CCSP. He developed the technique after observing that his patients' symptoms were apparently related to changes in the soft tissue that he could actually feel with his hand.


Based on that observation he began tracking how the soft tissues (muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments and nerves) responded to different types of treatments (soft tissue work). From there he developed the ART program-which is made up of more than 500 different specific moves to treat problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves, back pain, shoulder pain, sciatica, knee problems, tennis elbow and more. Nearly all of these are pains that can be common among strength athletes like strongmen, powerlifters and other competitive athletes.


A lot of these problems are caused by soft tissue injuries that usually occur in one of two ways: acute conditions (pulls, tears, strains, etc.); or accumulation of small tears caused by doing the same movement over and over (micro-trauma). When these things happen, they can cause the body to produce dense scar tissue in the areas affected. The scar tissue builds up and as it does, the impact it has becomes more widespread. As a result, we suffer from a reduced range of motion, a loss of strength and of course, pain.


When these kinds of injuries occur in a strength athlete-especially one who is competing-it can be devastating because our tendency is to "work through the pain." But what happens then is we overcompensate because of the pain and wind up not only exacerbating the original injury but often times, we end up with more than we had in the beginning.


So in these kinds of circumstances, ART therapy can be ideal for the strength athlete. It starts with a comprehensive evaluation by a certified therapist. The evaluation takes about an hour. Its purpose is to pinpoint the injury, determine its severity and then establish the proper therapeutic regimen. ART therapy works by treating the abnormal tissues (scar tissue) by combining precisely-directed tension combined with very specific movements from the patient. The big benefit here is that the treatments can generally alleviate the problem after just a few visits. That means no lengthy down times.


I've read about all kinds of strength athletes-powerlifters and strongmen included, that have had tremendous success alleviating persistent, chronic pains with ART therapy. And in the majority of cases that I've seen, the treatment time has been relatively short-from two to six weeks. After that, they've jumped right back into competition-pain free.


There have been several scientific studies conducted to determine how effective ART therapy actually is in treating injuries relating to the overuse of muscles. Nearly all of the studies show that ART therapy can be very effective in treating these types of injuries. One study conducted at the University of California (San Diego) showed a 71% success rate. Other studies obtained similar results with rates of success ranging from 70% to more than 90%. In these studies, most participants said that the problem was eliminated after 3 to 7 sessions.


Now obviously, a therapy like this is not going to be 100% successful for every person who tries it. Some injuries are more severe than others, are related to other problems or issues, or for some other reason it just doesn't work. But, with research showing that in more than 70% of the cases studied, ART therapy effectively eliminated the problem and enabled these athletes to get back to training, I'd say that this is one technique that is definitely worth investigating if you've got an injury that is holding you back.


Mike Westerdal is the founder of Critical Bench, Inc. A free online weight lifting magazine. It hosts the Internet's largest FREE exercise database and is the home of many workout routines including the Critical Bench Program to help you increase your bench press.


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How to Do Arm and Hand Massage?

We use our arms and hands throughout the day. This gives a lot of tension and pain in the hands, wrists, and arms. The arms and hands massage is very useful to relieve pain that come with the excessive use of arms and hands. The arm and hand massage can be done within 5-10 minutes and it will soon relieve pain in the body.


Benefits of arms and hands massage

1. When we massage our hands, fingers and joints, this not only relieves pain from arms and hands, but also solves problems of poor blood circulation and arthritis.

2. With arms and hands massage the effects will be passed onto the chest by reflex action. So, with this massage technique we can also reduce any pressure in the neck and head due to nervous and circulatory effects.


Steps for arms and hands massage -

1. Smooth on the oil as before. When working on the arm it's easier to effleurage with one hand only, using the other to hold the arm steady.

2. Bend the arm at the elbow. Massage around the wrist with little thumbs circles using both hands.

3. Work down from the wrist to the ends of the fingers using little thumbs circles. Repeat five times.

4. Stretch each finger, then thumb, in turn between your finger and thumb.

5. Rotate the fingers and thumb first clockwise then anti-clockwise.

6. Turn the hand over and rub gently along the solar plexus (from centre wrist down the palm to the middle finger) using alternate thumbs. This is calming to the nervous system.

7. Rotate the hand at the wrist clockwise then anti-clockwise. To do this lock your fingers into your partner's.

8. Turn the hand over and work on the inside of the wrist up to the elbow using alternate sweeping movements. Repeat four or five times.

9. Bend the arm at the elbow and bring the lower arm up and across the chest. Squeeze all along the upper arm from elbow to shoulder using both hands.

10. Bring the arm back down to the side then effleurage the whole area from hand to shoulder four or five times. Cover the arm and repeat on the other side.


Massaging the arms and hands will not only give relief from pain and tension in the hands, wrists, and arms but also make them more beautiful and strong.


Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.


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Read useful tips on Natural skin care to keep your skin soft, smooth and glowing. Also read useful articles on Hair loss remedy to control your hair fall.

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Hand Held Massager Eliminates Body Tension

Not only does it feel great to be massaged, but the art of massage can have many useful benefits to the body. Massage can improve circulation of blood flow, and can help increase the amount of red blood cells in the body.

Imagine having a massage right away after an exhausting work day. Hand held massagers can eliminate stress easily at the comfort of your home. Handheld massagers also relieve muscle pain. Having a massage on a regular basis enhances your body and mind, so you are able to think more clearly. Massagers can reduce stress, help eliminate tension, and can help in reducing high blood pressure.

Hand Held Massager can promote better sleep
When you have sleep problems, massages can help relax your muscles and mind. When you are calm and relaxed you are able to sleep better. When I have sufficient sleep on a regular basis, I notice that I am in less pain, my mood is enhanced, and generally, I have a much better day.

A neck massager is an ideal gift for almost any occasion. It's a durable and practical device that can be used anytime indoors to relieve stress, fatigue, and pain.

Portable Massager saves you more money than going to a Massage Therapist
Purchasing a few different types of massagers can save you a lot of money in the long run. Not to mention the driving hassle and time spent going to your appointments with the massage therapist.

Purchasing your own handheld massager can end up saving you thousands of dollars. The only drawback is that you have to experiment to find out which type of massager will be most beneficial to you.

Jason vanDijk is a freelance contributor and editor of the massage information portal which reports on the latest Fitness and Relaxation Therapies promoting natural detoxification and healing benefits. To learn more about how to choose the right hand held massagers or body massage visit http://www.chimassager.com

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What Is Deep Tissue Massage

Finding an exact definition of deep tissue massage is complicated because there is no shortage of books, web sites and experts offering their own versions. Generally speaking, deep tissue massage is a technique that focuses on the connective tissue and lower muscle groups quite thoroughly. Not a massage technique for wimps, deep tissue massage is characterized by heavy pressure and slower strokes than more traditional massages. Because the pressure used in this type of bodywork is more intense and the massage itself is highly focused on specific areas of tension, a deep tissue massage is likely to be a bit more uncomfortable than a Swedish massage.


Deep tissue massage uses deep muscle compression and friction along the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massage is also called deep muscle therapy or deep tissue therapy. It is a massage technique that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue and requires more skill and strength than a Swedish massage. Deep tissue massage is also European in origin, but it is very different from Swedish massage in its focus and effects.


The purpose of deep tissue massage is to create mechanical change in the body, changing posture and creating freedom of movement by releasing fascial adhesions and chronic muscle contracture. Deep tissue massage can be an extremely intense experience, taking you right to the edge of your pain threshold for that "hurts so good" feeling without crossing it.


Deep tissue massage is not recommended for anyone who has a fever, a contagious condition, recent injury or surgery, history of blood clot or phlebitis, or anyone who is taking blood-thinning medication. Deep tissue massage is also not recommended for people with acute or long-term mental health problems. It is only conducted if appropriate and will always begin in a gentle fashion until you are able to withstand greater intensity. Deep tissue massage is most successful when the therapist has advanced training and the client has some experience and sophistication about massage. It is not always a full body massage.


Deep tissue massage is used to release chronic patterns of muscular tension using slow strokes, direct pressure, or friction on a focused problem area. Deep tissue massage is helpful for stress, bad posture, excessive fitness training, prolonged computer work, and any other overuse of muscles that can cause muscle stiffness, back and neck pain, and headaches.


Deep tissue massage is often used to treat people who are recovering from accidents and for sports injuries as it increases blood circulation in muscles that are underused. It relieves chronic muscle tension throughout the body and can also break down scar tissue and "knots" deep in the muscles. Deep tissue massage is used to reach deep within the muscle or underlying tissue to relieve pain and addresses the source of that pain (such as tendinitis or arthritis). A consumer reports magazine stated in 2005 that deep tissue massage is more effective than physical therapy, exercise, prescription medication, acupuncture, diet, chiropractic, glucosamine, etc.


Deep connective tissue massage is a form of intense deep massage that aims to release myofascial (connective tissue) restrictions in the body and to break up and eliminate any restrictive scar tissue.


Deeper strokes can also be used to break down adhesion in muscle and connective tissue, which is common after injury and in areas of body tension. Using deep muscle therapy tools allow both patient and care givers to apply the same kind of pressure to painful muscles as a regular part of everyday self-care.

About the Author

Massage Therapy can be relaxing and extremely beneficial for your health. If you are interested in massage therapy as a profession or you are a massage therapist and want to increase your business, you can find out how at Amen Massage.

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How to Give a Back Massage

Our back represents a large part of the body, and is a very common place to accumulate tension. Back massage is extremely soothing and relaxing and great for relieving stress and tension. This article discusses how to give a back massage that gives relief from back pain naturally.


Steps for back massage -

Uncover the back to just show the buttock crease. At this point it is good idea to place a small rolled up towel under your partner's forehead otherwise he or she will have to turn his or her head sideways or end up with a squashed nose through which it is difficult to breathe.

1. Starting at the lower back effleurage oil using both hands. Work slowly up the back to the shoulders, pressing gently on the upward stokes, releasing the pressure as you come back down.

2. Starting at the base of the spine work up on either side, using gentle thumb pressure or little thumb circles. Repeat five or six times.

3. With reinforced hands (one on top of the order) sweep up the spine then work around the shoulder blades in a figure-of-eight movement. Repeat the figure-of-eight four or five times.

4. Now work around each shoulder blade individually, still with reinforced hands, in a circular motion. Repeat four or five times each side. You may feel knots (little bumps) around the shoulder blades. These are an indication of tension and massage here gives great relief.

5. Work around the shoulder blades with your thumbs, helping to break down the knots and bumps. Allow your partner to be your guide as these areas can be tender.

6. Squeeze along the top of the shoulders from the neck out, using your fingers and thumbs. Repeat four to five times on each side.

7. Stroke up the back of the neck and out to the ears, using your thumbs.

8. Stand at your partner's head and sweep your hands down the centre back, across the top of the buttocks, then firmly pull up at the sides. Repeat five times.

9. Move to your partner's side and rub backwards and forwards over the whole back with frictions to warm the area.

10. Make thumb circles out from just above the buttock crease round towards the hips. This area can often be tender and massage here is soothing. Repeat several times.

11. Effleurage the whole back.

12. Gently stroke up the spine, hand over hand, several times, allowing your touch to get lighter and lighter.

13. Finish by gently holding your partner. Place one hand at the base of the spine, the other at the base of the neck. Hold this position and feel the warmth build up under your hands. After approximately one minute gently lift your hands off. Cover your partner over.


Note: Use massage oil to decrease the friction created on the skin and to prevent the pulling of hair.


Use slow movements for a soothing or calming response and fast movements for a stimulating effect.


Do not put any direct pressure on the spine. Avoid any broken skin, blisters or areas of possible infection.


Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.


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How to Give a Neck and Shoulder Massage

A neck and shoulder massage helps you relax, particularly if you've been working at a desk all day. It relieves you from pain and stress and charges you with energy you were looking for after a heavy work schedule or an outdoor journey. In this article you will learn how to give a neck and shoulder massage to get relief from stress and tension.


Steps for neck and shoulder massage -


For massaging neck and shoulder your partner should be lying on his or her back. Uncover the chest by folding down the towel or blanket.


1. Apply oil to your partner's chest, shoulders and neck.

2. Begin effleuraging by placing both hands on the upper chest, fingers facing towards each other. Now slowly pull your hands round the shoulders and under them, then bring your hands in to meet at the back of the skull. Repeat four or five times.

3. Gently knuckle the chest and shoulders in the sequence shown in the diagram on the left. To knuckle make your hands into relaxed fists, and move the knuckles make your hands into relaxed fist, and move the knuckles in circular movements. This sounds more difficult than it is.

4. Gently turn your partner's head to one side. Stroke along the top of the shoulder and the side of the neck with your first three fingers. Repeat three times.

5. Repeat the above sequence, but circle your fingers this time. Do this three times.

6. Turn your partner's head to the other side and repeat movements 4 and 5. Return the head to the centre.

7. Slide your hands down your partner's back as far as you can comfortably reach. Find the groove each side of the spine with your fingers. Pull your hands up the spine with a little pressure on the groove each side. Repeat three times.

8. Now you are going to stretch the neck - these movements stretch out the muscles of the shoulders and neck and ease tension. If your partner is relaxed you will take all the weight of the head. If he or she is tense, go easy and make the movements slow and gentle. You don't want any pulled muscles.

9. Cup both hands under your partner's head, your fingers resting in the base of the skull. Lift the head slightly gently pull towards you. Lower the head slowly repeat.

10. Hold the back of the head in one hand and move it slowly towards the left shoulder while gently pressing down on the right shoulder with your other hand. Bring the head back to the centre and then repeat on the other side.


Finish with some effleurage movements as you began.


Note: This massage shouldn't be done on anyone with injuries to their shoulder or neck.


Hope you have now learned how to get relief from stress and tension with this natural method of pain relief.


Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.


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What You Should Know About Massage Therapy Treatments -- Discover 3 Tips

Massage therapy has been around for a long time. Ancient cultures in China, Egypt, India, Greece and Rome used massage as part of their medical and health procedures.


All kinds of medical conditions and disorders were treated by massages. Massage can be used to treat stress and can help you relax Most of the time it promotes a feeling of well being. Massage therapy works to help various aspects of the physical system - the muscular, nervous, circulatory and immune systems.


Quite apart from the undoubted physical benefits of massage therapy, the most important one is psychological; the intimate contact with another human being provides the feel-good aspect.


One of the ultimate forms of stress relief is a full body massage. A lot of persons who had a full body massage keep talking about how great the feel afterwards. The first thing that someone usually does after experiencing his or her first full body massage is book another full body massage! People who've experienced a full body massage all agree that they feel they've managed to attain total relaxation for the first time in their lives.


In addition to full body massage, massage can be used on specific, individual parts of the body. One of the main individual body parts that is subject to a specialist form of massage is the foot. Foot massage is generally referred to as reflexology.


Massage therapy was on the fringes of conventional medicine for a long time, but the modern medical experts generally accept the efficacy of massage. In fact, more than 70% of American hospitals now offer massage therapy as a part of their treatments.


Why are some hospitals using massage therapy ? They use it in the treatment of chronic pain symptoms, in cancer cases, pregnancy, infant care, joint and muscle mobility, stress management and many other symptoms and disorders.


According to new research massage therapy helps to boost the immune system, lower blood pressure and manage pain.

Massage therapies can also be benefit for people who are receiving drug and alcohol withdrawal treatment. Massage therapy can also be associated to other therapies to strengthen their effects - e.g. aromatherapy, reflexology, acupressure and reiki.


To see massage therapy going from the alternative medicine field to the mainstream because this means that a lot of individuals are able to benefit from this very versatile form of treatment and therapy.


About The Author:
Nathan Knightley a well known author is also a communication expert and genuinely enjoys sharing his knowledge with other people. Find more information about Massages and all about Massage As A Therapy answers at his website http://www.alternativemedicineglobal.com

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How to Give a Valentine's Day Sensual Massage

This Valentine's Day, celebrate by giving each other a sensual massage. Not only is this a wonderfully romantic act that will wow your special someone, but it's inexpensive to do.

Item's needed for the massage:
- Lotion or oil to massage with
- Quiet place to give the massage
- Music to relax too
- Scented candles to provide lighting and create a romantic atmosphere

Preparation for the massage:
- Prior to the massage, ask the massage receiver if they have favorite places they like massaged (such as scalp and neck) or don't like massaged (ticklish feet).
- Another thing to look for is any bruises or broken skin. These areas should be avoided during the massage.
- For the person receiving the massage, if the massage is on a bed, have them lay face down with their head at the foot of the bed (reverse of normal sleeping position). One of the secrets to giving a great massage is being comfortable while doing it. By standing at the foot of the bed during a massage, you have easy and comfortable access to massaging the back and neck.
- The person receiving the massage should be disrobed at much as comfortably possible.
- Before starting the massage, turn off all phones and electronic gizmos.

Giving the massage:
- For most amateur massagers, the safest and most effective technique is effleurage. This technique is a broad, sliding stroke that is intensely relaxing. In addition, in the right environment it is very sensual. Effleurage is also the most commonly used stroke for Swedish massage.
- For great video examples of the effleurage technique and massage, search on YouTube. There are some great playlists demonstrating this technique. Massage is a great example where an image is worth a thousand words.

Receiving the massage:
- Provide feedback. Whether it's with words, by a moan of pleasure or a squeal of pain, let the person massaging you know what works and what doesn't. This is one of those few times it's all about you, so make the most of it.

Additional Tips:
- Don't eat a heavy meal prior to the massages. The combination of lots of food and the massage will make the first person who received the massage want to go to sleep after their massage. This can lead to frustration for the other person!

- The ideal situation is a light meal with some wine, give each other massages and then follow-up with a heavier meal later, if so desired.

Follow the above guidelines and you are guaranteed an evening of sensual romance, making this Valentine's Day the best ever!

About the Author

Tina Woodall is the owner of A-Team Massage Orlando, a mobile massage business that provides massages in the comfort of home or hotel, in the Orlando FL area.

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Massage Techniques and Tips to Use for Valentine's Day

Rarely will you find that your sweetheart will pass up a good massage after a long day, but when it is planned and presented as a gift, it makes it all the sweeter. In order to make this a successful, mind-blowing gift, you need to learn about a few massage techniques and tips that you can use during that special moment.


To begin with, if you plan to be the masseuse for the evening, then you need to set the mood of the room before your lover even enters. Lights should be dimmed, candles lit, scented oils or lotions present and heated, soft and slow background music playing. Ensure there is a comfortable, stable table for your lover to lie on when your hands provide the most magical moment for them. You also want to have several towels or sheets on hand to drape over the table, and ensure the temperature of the room is one where your sweetheart will be comfortably warm.


Introducing your lover to the many massage techniques out there isn't feasible. There are literally hundreds of massage types that take time to learn, but you don't have to master a lot of massage techniques, all you need to choose the best one you feel will provide the most comfort, enjoyment, and relaxation. The basic Swedish massage technique is one where you will combine scented oils with deep rubbing, kneading, sweeping, and pulling of muscles towards the heart. It is the easiest method to turn into a sensual massage and can be done anywhere on the body. Mainly Swedish massage consists of extremely gentle, massaging strokes that promote deep relaxation and will have your lover feeling rejuvenated and more focused upon completion. Done correctly, it will be one the things that they'll bring up again and again as an awesome experience.


Shiatsu is a massage technique that requires finger pressure along what is called in eastern medicine, meridians of the body. It's an ideal method to use if your partner has a headache, sinus issues, and even allergies. By gently pressing on certain areas of the head and face you can not only relieve some of these symptoms it can also be extremely relaxing. You can use these various massage techniques as a supplement to an incredible Swedish massage.


Deep muscle tissue kneading will relieve the tissue of any stress and or knots that have been growing due to the daily pressures we all experience. This is another method that can be primarily used all over the body, and again turn into a more sensual or sexual experience. The deep rubbing will promote endorphin and hormone stimulation, making your lover more aware of the connection that your hands are creating.


However, I would avoid any deep work unless you've been trained specifically in deep tissue massage techniques. Sticking to simple relaxation techniques is perfect way to treat our lover for Valentine's Day.

About the Author

Are you're ready to apply these massage techniques and give your partner a spine tingling massage? visit: http://stress-and-anxiety-help.com/awesome-benefits-of-stress-relief-massage/ or http://www.stressreliefmassagedvd.com

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Relaxation Massage: The Perfect Valentine's Day Gift

Everyone loves a good massage, and it doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg to get one. You, yourself, can be your loved one's masseuse for the night, and forever be remembered as the strong hands that rubbed out the knots, kinks, and soothed any aches and pains away.


Surprise them one night after a long day at work. Set up a quiet room to be their haven of serenity while you work your magic on their body. Dim the lights, and light several scented candles that are your lover's favorite. You need to keep in mind all of their preferences in order to make this night successful. Their favorite candles, favorite music you will play softly in the background, and favorite scented oils or lotions that will be applied generously to their skin as you massage them into oblivion.


Keep in mind that you need to have a surface that is comfortable and stable enough to allow them to lay on it for a significant amount of time. Drape sheets and towels over the make-shift massage table and add a pillow or two for comfort's sake. The temperature of the room should be war, enough so that when their bare skin is exposed, they do not get cold. Use a portable heater if you have one to ensure their comfort.


If you are lucky enough, your partner may want to reciprocate the relaxation massage to their favorite masseuse. If this is the case, you want to consider purchasing a DVD on relaxation massages and other massaging techniques. This is a resource that you and your lover will use for years to come.


Purchasing time with a private massage is always a wonderful Valentine's Day gift as well. If you both get them done at the same time, a similar connection is still created as if it were just the two of you but for lasting benefits, and increased intimacy sharing massage with each other is not only the most powerful but by far the most cost effective.


Relaxation massages are meant to relieve the body of any negative factors that were caused by stress, illnesses, or physical impairments. It opens the spirit and mind, and allows for a person to become focused on what is really important. And who wouldn't want the kind of Valentine's Day gift that will allow you to share in your lover's pleasure?

About the Author

Are you're ready to apply these massage techniques and give your partner a spine tingling massage? visit: http://stress-and-anxiety-help.com/awesome-benefits-of-stress-relief-massage/ or http://www.stressreliefmassagedvd.com

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Massaging - There Are Many Forms

If you have ever had a massage, either from your partner of from a professional masseur, you will know how good it feels. However, it is not just a case of pulling and pushing muscles to get you totally relaxed, there are other benefits alongside such as stress reduction, improved blood circulation and the release of endorphins. You may be interested to know that there are many forms of massage.

There is the Swedish Massage therapy, probably the best known. The method uses circular, kneading and long strokes on muscles with oil or lotion. The Deep Tissue Massage is specific massage being used to work in deeper layers of connective tissues and muscles. This is focused on severely tighten muscles an used as a remedy for injury recovery or reoccurring strains. Thereceiver of this type of massage could well remain sore from the treatment for several days after.

The Hot Stone Massage is another form. This uses warm stones on certain parts of the body to get an equilibrium of energy centres and also loosens and warms muscles that show stress and tightness. Then there is the Aromatherapy massage. This uses oils in in conjunction with the with massage. The oils used is chosen on individuals' needs to each individual person. An emotional element is attached to this form of massage essentially relating to a specific physical condition.

Finally, there is the Shiatsu Massage. This is a Japanese type massage that embraces finger sequencing placed on meridian points of the body. Not too dissimilar to acupuncture, which improves the energy flow and balance the body.

Massage treatment is grossly underestimated for its effectiveness on the mind and body. You don't need to see a specialist to be treated. If you have a partner or friend, massaging each other will give some of the benefits. Of course you can delve deeper into different massaging techniques by researching further. The rewards from this will be well worth it.

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Answers to Your Massage Questions

Massage for General Health and Relaxation

For general health and relaxation - recommendation of massage 1 to 2 times per month for people under light to moderate stress. This would also include people who are sedentary or who exercise only occasionally. Receiving massage therapy 1 to 2 times per month can have excellent health benefits and help reduce the effects of stress. Some massage therapists will offer a discount for customers who pay in advance for multiple massages, so ask about this.

Massage for Stress Management

For people who have high stress occupations or living conditions, or who travel frequently - recommendation of massage weekly or bi-weekly in order to help the individual in coping with their stress. Tension that builds up from stressful situations can be more easily managed with weekly massage. Additionally, just knowing that you will be receiving massage therapy each week or every other week can be comforting and soothing to your brain which can itself reduce your stress load.

Massage Therapy for Pain Reduction and Management

Reduction of, and management of, pain requires a different type of frequency. I call it a "diminishing frequency". People in severe pain not requiring medical intervention can and do receive massage therapy 1 to 2 times per week in the first week. Although rare, this may continue in the second and third week of treatment depending upon response of the client to the massage therapy. When the pain is reduced so is the frequency of needed massage therapy sessions.

At first it may be reduced to once per week, then every other week or less often. Even chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia, lupus, carpal tunnel syndrome, tmj-d, and chronic low back pain can have a diminishing frequency. This type of diminishing frequency is typically used with Neuromuscular Therapy and Myofascial Release which are powerful massage methods for relieving pain.

Health and Wellness with Massage Therapy

It's easy to get busy with life and forget about taking time out for yourself. Massage Therapy is very beneficial to your health and can compliment your exercise routine or just provide the needed relaxation for your busy week. Remember to drink lots of water, breathe, restore, and just relax. See you soon!

Are you looking to get a great massage? I offer massage therapy of all types, so come by today and try me out. Massage Woodlands - http://www.justrelaxmassagetherapy.com

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Massage Chair Therapy Help Sooth Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Fibromyalgia or FMS is a condition that is characterized by varying degrees of muscle aches and general body pain. The pain can range from mild stiffness to severe pain. The pain can be widespread affecting the muscles, ligaments, joints and tendons. Your health care professional may recommend varying treatments depending on the situation. Many fibromyalgia patients are turning to massage chairs to help relieve aches and pains.

More health care professionals are recognizing the benefit their patients can obtain from massage chairs. Their patients need to get frequent massages to help soothe and relieve their pain. Massage chairs provide a practical and economical alternative for massage therapy.

Some health professionals believe that the pain that fibromyalgia induces comes from an excess of lactic acid. Massage therapy has been found to significantly release the build up of this lactic acid. But to reduce the build up of lactic acid, massage therapy must be obtained on a continuous basis.

Massage chairs provide unprecedented convenience to obtaining routine massage therapy. You can place one in your home or business and receive with massage therapy at the touch of a button. You can use it when your symptoms are acting up. No appointments, no tips necessary.

Patients with fibromyalgia experience greater tenderness and soreness. Sometimes massages can be uncomfortable at first. The muscles are stiff and may ache. Massage therapy starts to work on the muscles to increase flexibility. This can sometimes be somewhat painful until some amount of flexibility is restored.

A person suffering from FMS should begin with mild stretching exercises to get warmed up. These stretches should be slow and deliberate. Do not bounce or vigorously stretch your muscles. The goal is to keep the muscle loose and improve the range of motion of the muscles and the joints.

Massage chairs incorporate warm up programs that use soft massage techniques to relax the muscles. You can choose from lighter massage treatments or more penetrating massages. Massage chairs allow you to select the area or exact spot where you need relief. This is great for targeted relief-when you need it!

Some massage chairs incorporate heating elements to help reduce swelling. You can activate the heat in a given area of the chair. There are also models that have traction or stretching systems. These systems can stretch the lower body and now there are some that can stretch the arms and shoulders. These can be an effective method of warming up prior to activity.

Some of the warning signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia include stiffness and pain in the joints and muscles throughout the body. There are certain tests that can help to determine if the person in fact suffers from fibromyalgia. Some physical examinations push certain pressure points are check for associated pain in that area. Always check with your doctor as to your conditions and specific remedies for your situation.

If you do suffer from aches, pains and soreness, you should really look at how a massage chair can provide you effective relief. The key with massage therapy is to receive it on a continuous basis. Repetitive massage therapy is where massage chairs excel. Just consider the in home convenience of your own massage chair and how that can really do wonders for your situation.

Find out how you can get daily relief from aches, pain and soreness. A Massage Chair can provide you with effective full body massage therapy. All this in the comfort and convenience of home. Get the pain relief you need with a massage chair. Peruse our articles on Massage Chairs and research what might best fit your needs.

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