Massage Therapy Massage provides relief to people of all ages and from all walks of life.Massage therapy addresses a number of health conditions, the most prevalent being stress-related tension, which, experts believe, accounts for 80%-90% of disease. Massage has been proven effective in treating cancer-related fatigue, sleep disorders, high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, low back pain, immunity suppression, spinal cord injury, autism, post-operative surgery, age-related disorders, infertility, eating disorders, smoking cessation, and depression, among many other health problems. More specifically, massage has been shown to be beneficial in treating these disorders because of the following processes massage assists in: ·Increasing circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs. ·Stimulating the lymph system, the body’s natural defense, against toxic invaders. For example, in breast cancer patients, massage has been shown to increase the cells that fight cancer. ·Relaxing and softening injured and overused muscles. ·Reducing spasms and cramping. ·Increasing joint flexibility. ·Reducing recovery time for strenuous workouts and eliminating subsequent pains of the athlete at any level. ·Releasing endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller. For this reason, massage is being incorporated into treatment for chronic illness, injury and recovery from surgery to control and relieve pain. ·Reducing post-surgery adhesions and edema and reducing and realigning scar tissue after healing has occurred. ·Improving range of motion and decreasing discomfort for patients with low back pain. ·Relieving pain for migraine sufferers and decreasing the need for medication. ·Providing exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reducing shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion. ·Contributing to shorter labor and reduced tearing for expectant mothers, as well as lessening the need for medication, minimizing depression and anxiety, and shortening hospital stays. It’s important to note that there are some conditions where massage is not recommended, such as: ·Certain forms of cancer ·Phlebitis ·Some cardiac problems ·Some skin conditions ·Infectious diseases Your massage therapist should ask you about your specific health conditions and determine if massage, bodywork or somatic therapies are a good idea. In some cases, the practitioner may need your doctor’s permission before providing services.