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Shiatsu and Acupressure are
systems of finger-pressure massage, based on Oriental healing
concepts, which treat special points along "meridians,"
the invisible channels of energy flow in the body. Energy blocked
along these meridians can cause physical discomfort, so the aim
is to release the blockage and re-balance the energy flow. They
can be used for the full body or for specific areas of the body.
Sports Massage Therapy is
classified into three main categories: maintenance, event, and
rehabilitation. Maintenance massage is a regular program of massage
to help the athlete reach optimal performance through injury-free
training. Event massage takes place before, during and/or after
competition to supplement an athlete’s warm-up, readying
the athlete for top performance, and/or to reduce the muscle spasms
and metabolic build-up that occurs with vigorous exercise. Such
techniques enhance the body’s recovery process, improving
the athletes return to high-level training and competition, and
reducing the risk of injury. Rehabilitation massage techniques
are effective in the management of both acute and chronic injuries.
Reflexology
(zone therapy) is organized around a system of points on the hands
and feet that are thought to correspond, or "reflex,"
to all areas of the body. Though the massage is specific to an
area, it is intended to affect the whole body.
Trigger Point Therapy (also
known as Myotherapy or Neuromuscular Therapy) applies concentrated
finger pressure to "trigger points" (painful irritated
areas in muscles) to break cycles of spasm and pain.
How Can Massage be Medically Beneficial?
People find that therapeutic massage can help with a wide range
of medical conditions, including:
- Allergies
- Anxiety and stress
- Arthritis (osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis)
- Asthma and bronchitis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Chronic and temporary pain
- Circulatory problems
- Depression
- Digestive disorders, including spastic colon, constipation
and diarrhea
- Headache, especially when due to muscle tension
- Insomnia
- Myofascial pain (a condition of the tissue connecting
the muscles)
- Reduced range of motion
- Sinusitis
- Sports injuries, including pulled or strained muscles
and sprained ligaments
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)
Massage Therapy and Well-Being: Mental Benefits
- Fosters peace of mind
- Promotes a relaxed state of mental alertness
- Helps relieve mental stress
- Improves ability to monitor stress signals and
respond appropriately
- Enhances capacity for calm thinking and creativity
- Satisfies needs for caring — nurturing touch
- Fosters a feeling of well-being
- Reduces levels of anxiety
- Increases awareness of mind-body connection
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