A
Brief History of Massage
Massage
is considered to be among the oldest of all treatments used by man.
Chinese records dating back 3,000 years documented its use. The ancient
Hindus, Persians and Egyptians used forms of massage for some ailments and Hypocrites
wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and
circulatory problems. Today, massage is an accepted part of many physical
rehabilitation programs and has proven beneficial to many chronic conditions
such as low back pain, arthritis and bursitis. Massage helps relieve the
stress and tension of everyday living.
Can
Massage, Bodywork or Somatic Therapies Benefit Me?
Massage
provides relief to people from all walks of life-the weekend or competitive
athlete, the home gardener, the overstressed executive struggling to keep pace
in today's economy. Secretaries, laborers, waitresses-anyone can feel a
need for massage at some point in time. The older population, as well,
will benefit from massage, as it enhances flexibility and
circulation. The bedridden can also be helped in this regard. There
are some conditions where massage is not recommended, however. Your
practitioner should ask for information regarding any specific health conditions
from which you may be suffering in order to determine if massage, bodywork or
somatic therapies are contraindicated. In some cases, the practitioner may
need your doctor's permission before providing services.
Will
My Insurance cover Massage or Bodywork Services?
If
you are in a car accident or have a job-related injury covered by workers'
compensation, insurance may cover massage, bodywork
or somatic therapies when prescribed by a physician. If your insurance
covers chiropractic or osteopathic services, the services of a bodywork
professional may be covered when prescribed by a chiropractor or
osteopath. Therapies provided as part of the prescribed treatment by a
physician or registered physical therapist are often covered. The best
thing to do is check with your insurance company to see exactly what is covered
under what circumstances.
Finding
a Qualified Practitioner
Your
massage, bodywork or somatic therapy services should be
provided by a professional who has received proper training. Don't
hesitate to ask practitioners about their background, training and
experience. Referral from friends can usually be relied upon.
Members of Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals have met stringent
requirements regarding training and must adhere to a strict code of ethics in
order to remain members. ABMP offers a referral service to the public and
will provide you with a list of practitioners in your area. For
information, call 800/458-2267 or visit our Web site at www.massagetherapy.com.
Taking
Care of Yourself
Care
of your body should be at the top of your priority list. You will feel and
look better if you take the necessary steps regarding health and nutrition in
this age of increased longevity. Stress relief alone can improve your vitality
and state of mind. Massage, bodywork and somatic therapies could play an
important role in your life.
Massage
for Pain & Emotional Problems
With
many chronic ailments, massage can relieve the pain and help heal. As with
physical problems, emotional problems may also be stimulated into self-healing
with massage. In many cases, this helps eliminate the need to take harmful
chemical drugs, which will unnecessarily burden the liver, kidneys and other
vital organs.
