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Posted on Dec 30, 2005, 8 p.m.
By Bill Freeman
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Therapeutic massage involves the manipulation of the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, muscle spasm, and stress. There are several different types of therapeutic massage available, including Swedish massage, deep-tissue massage, and craniosacral massage.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Therapeutic massage involves the manipulation of the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, muscle spasm, and stress. There are several different types of therapeutic massage available, including Swedish massage, deep-tissue massage, and craniosacral massage. Therapeutic massage is carried out by a suitably qualified practitioner.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
Research suggests that medical massage can strengthen the immune system as well as relieve acute and chronic pain, reduce the level of damaging stress hormones, and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Massage also has been linked to reducing acute and chronic inflammation, helping people with asthma breathe easier, the alleviation of chronic fatigue and migraines, and ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Scientists speculate that massage accomplishes all this by improving circulation, boosting the flow of lymph, flushing out lactic acid, and stimulating the release of endorphins.
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Not applicable
