by Rynaldo Stoltz

Created on: June 23, 2009   Last Updated: July 01, 2009

How massage is used as medicine

What is Massage in medicine.

In medicine, massaging is known as the systematic and scientific manipulation of the body tissues, and is performed with the hands. This has a great deal of therapeutic effect on the muscular system, nervous system, and systematic circulation of the blood. Massage therapy is also referred to as a Complementary and alternative medicine, and is often said to be a very ancient form of treatment.

The history of massage

Massaging has endless history in different cultures around the world. The oldest type of massage therapy dates back to 3000 BC. References to massage also appeared in writing from ancient China, Japan, India, Rome, and Egypt.

The most popular types of massage used in medicine today:

1. Swedish massage therapy:

The Swedish massage is the most common type of massage therapy used today. Therapists use smooth srokes and circular movements on the muscles using massage oils and lotions.

2. Aromatherapy massage:

This massage therapy used one or more plant oils known as essential oils. These oils are scented and are designed to address specific needs such as stress-reducing, and relaxing capabilities.

3. Deep tissue massage therapy:

With this type of massage, the therapist can target the connective and deeper layers of muscle tissue. This massage is done by a friction technique, and is used for chronically painful muscles, repetitive strained muscles, injury pains, and postural problems.

4. Hot stone massage therapy:

As the name implies, smooth stones are heated up and placed on certain points of the body. This warms and loosens up tight muscles, and balances the energy levels in the body. Good for muscle tension.

5. Reflexology:

Also known as foot massage, the therapist will apply pressure to certain points on the foot. These points will usually correspond to different organs and systems in the body. This is a very relaxing type of massage.

6. Back massage therapy:

The back accumulates more tension than any other part of your body. Therapists will use a veriety of gentle, as well as pressured strokes using massage oils and lotions.

7. Sports massage therapy:

This type of massage is specifically designed for people who are very active in physical activity. Here therapists will use a combination of techniques. The sports massage is designed to release muscle tension and has relaxation capabilities.

8. Thai massage:

The therapist aligns the energy points in the body by applying pressure to certain points on the body. It's very similar to Shiatsu. You will also be moved into several different postures. This type of massage therapy helps with improving flexibility and reducing stress.

9. Pregnancy massage therapy:

Also known as a prenatal massage therapy. A very popular method of massaging designed for expectant mothers. This type of massage will help with reducing stress, decreasing swelling, decreasing depression and anxiety, and easing pains.

10. Shiatsu:

This type of massage therapy is a Japanese form of bodywork. The therapist will use finger pressure in a sequence. This massage helps with the energy flow in the body, as well as regaining balance.

Massage therapy encompasses many different techniques. The above mentioned are just some of the most popular techniques used today.

Scientific research on massage therapy is limited to whether it works or not, however, it is evident to benefit some people. A recent study has shown that a single massage therapy session can reduce state anxiety, blood pressure, and heart rate. Multiple massage therapy sessions may reduce trait anxiety, pain, and depression.

Let's face it, massge therapy is a great complementary and alternative for medicine and works well.

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