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By Kristine Dwyer,
Staff Writer
(Page 2 of 5)
Benefits and Results:
As a society, we are
touch-deprived and this can lead to
physical and emotional challenges.
From birth to the end of life,
caring touch is necessary to bring
about a sense of well-being and
security. Massage offers a
drug-free, non-invasive approach
that focuses on the body’s natural
ability to heal and regenerate
itself.
Massage has also been used as a
primary intervention for caregivers
that experience stress, fatigue and
insomnia. A study by the Oregon
Hospice Association and College of
Healing Arts found that when massage
was offered as a respite
intervention, 85 percent of the
caregivers reported a decrease in
emotional and physical stress,
physical pain was relieved for 77
percent of the caregivers and
difficult sleep was eased for over
half of the participants. It is
hoped that in the future, massage
therapists can join hospice and
medical treatment teams to assist
caregivers and patients with sore
muscles as well as offer them
restfulness, compassion and peace of
mind.
Massage Recommendations:
It is advisable for all persons
interested in massage to consult
first with their doctors to confirm
that massage will be beneficial to
them. There may be some
conditions where massage is not
recommended or specific techniques
need to be limited. This may be
especially true for some cancer
patients or those who have varicose
veins, skin inflammations,
infections or tumors.
Locating a massage therapist can
be done by word of mouth, through a
physician or clinic or by contacting
the American Massage Therapy
Association. They represent
therapists around the country and
require members to follow specific
practices and a strict code of
ethics. Massage therapy services
should be provided by a professional
who has received proper training in
a variety of techniques, has
graduated from an accredited or
approved program and is certified,
licensed or regulated by the state.
Ultimately, having a sense of trust
and comfort with the therapist will
reflect on the outcome of the
massage experience.
Basics of Massage:
Once the choice to have a massage
has been made, it is important to
discuss general health questions,
concerns and massage methods with
the therapist. This will help
alleviate apprehension and maximize
the massage experience. A massage
session will take place in a warm,
comfortable and quiet room on a
special massage table. Soft,
relaxing music is played and the
aroma of healing oils or scents may
be present.
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