Massage's history is traced to around 3000 BCE in India at a time when massage was thought to be a sacred form of medical treatment. Massage was a practice that was passed down from generation to generation. It was practiced primarily by Hindus in ancient Ayurveda. Massage became so well-known during the Renaissance period in Europe that it was referred to as "the science and art of relaxing" and became a part of western medical knowledge. Massage is now used as a treatment method for various conditions, including pain relief, joint and muscle inflammation, chronic pain, asthma, and a variety of other health conditions.
Massage therapy is the application of manipulating soft tissues in order to restore or maintain health. There are many types of massage. The most popular are the primary and secondary ones. Primary massage refers to the way masseurs work with the muscles and connective tissue of the body to repair, balance or condition them. Secondary massage involves more manipulation of the underlying tissues of the body than primary massage.
Through the years the field of massage therapy has developed into two distinct methods: Chinese massage and Western massage. Although both techniques for massage are built on the same principles, they have different goals and applications. Chinese massage is sometimes referred to as Oriental massage. It's used to treat issues like sore throats headache, menstrual cramps, sore throat as well as constipation, asthma, arthritis and many more. It uses gentle pressure and long strokes. It is generally performed by trained Chinese massage therapists who are licensed by the PRC Ministry of Health.
It employs gentle strokes to release tension in muscles, relax and soothe tight and tense muscles. The massage also makes application of acupuncture as well as Chinese herbal treatments. Chinese massage can be used for a variety of conditions, including sore throat and headaches, tension headaches and strains, pains and cramps, back pain, joint pain, insomnia and low back pain. The effectiveness of Chinese massage is due to the consistent application of pressure and the releasing of muscle tension, which promotes relaxation and the alleviation of symptoms.
Massage therapy also uses Chinese herbal treatments and acupuncture in order to help the client achieve relaxation. The herbs help in relaxation and tension reduction. Gu Za (Glycerrhiza Glabra) is used to treat menstrual cramps. Red Peony soothes muscle stiffness and pain. Houttuynia Cordata relieves arthritis pain. Yucca treats skin conditions. Resveratrol improves cardiovascular health and energy. Ligusticum helps with respiratory ailments. Acupuncture uses thin, sterilized needles which are put along meridians. The points are thought to help alleviate pain due to the chi energy that flows through them. Massage therapists will utilize these same points in conjunction with selected Chinese herbs to alleviate the patient of any ailments.
In a number of countries, massage therapists must adhere to a certain code of ethics, which generally contains a monthly code of conduct , also known as 'codes of practice.' These codes are designed to ensure high standards for personal care, body care and professional behavior. They also safeguard clients from negligence. A number of countries have developed their own regulatory bodies that monitor massage therapies and to ensure that massage therapists adhere to certain principles of best practice. These bodies in the United States are the National Association of Personal Therapists and the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.
Many people are adamant that massage therapy causes discomfort and suffering, however massage therapy can also aid in the treatment of injuries. It is particularly effective in healing muscle injuries. It is also beneficial for stiffness and soft tissue injury. When there are stiffness and soft tissue injuries, massage therapists apply techniques like gentle stretching and friction strokes to relieve tension in the area of injury. Massage therapy is also utilized to treat injuries common to the body such as tennis elbow or joint pain.
A career in massage therapy has many benefits. The profession will continue develop and the techniques used are more effective. This will enable everyone from every walk of life to take part in the healing process. As demand for these services rises this profession will be able to provide better healthcare to patients. For more information on the education and continuing education requirements for this field, people interested in it should contact their local board.
