4 Things to Consider When Looking Into a Massage School Clinic

If you have pondered on the idea of becoming a masseuse and have decided it is the path you would like to take, you are going to want to go to a massage school clinic. This will help you get the proper training and certifications you need to excel with your career. To help you decide on the right massage school for you, here are four things to take into consideration.

1. Cost

As with any type of education you pursue, you are going to want to look at the overall cost of the school. Typically this type of training is considered vocational school meaning most are privately owned and operated schools. Because of this, tuition can vary a great deal depending on the school you will be attending. You will want to ask if you can pay by the course, if there are different prices for the different levels offered, and whether or not the school offers financial aid.

2. Licensing requirements

Prior to selecting a massage school clinic, look at the various licensing requirements that have been created. You want to make sure the school you attend meets the license requirements for the area you hope to get a job in. In the United States you will find that requirements are set by the state which can make it difficult. Just make sure you do not go through school and then find out you need more training then originally thought.

3. Curriculum

Because massage therapy is generally offered in vocational schools, you will be more focused on a specific amount of hours rather than a degree. There are some schools that are offering it as an associate degree, but a majority still go by certificates or diplomas. The general consensus is a minimum of 500 hours is needed to get your diploma, but it depends on the area.

4. Courses

The last thing to consider while selecting a massage school clinic is what kinds of courses that are offered. The more training and education you receive the better prepared you will be for the real world. Make sure whatever school you choose includes both theory and practice courses. Theory courses will consist of anatomy, physiology and psychology while practice courses will give you basic, intermediate, and advanced massage training with shiatsu, chair massage, and various other practices.

Keep in mind that the type of training and education you receive can prepare you for the rest of your life. It is vital you take the time to find the most sufficient massage school clinic that will set you apart from the rest of the field. The more prepared you are for the real world the better off you will be.

TMJ and Massage Therapy

TMJ, temporomandibular joint pain, is caused when people grind their teeth because they are under huge amounts of stress. Its symptoms include but are not limited to jaw clicking, pain chewing, headaches, jaw popping and migraines. Most of the time TMJ occurs during the night. This unconscious clenching and grinding often interferes with sleep and can cause sleeping disorders. This nighttime clenching is called Bruxism. Having the jaw muscles tensed for seven or eight hours a night causes the severe stress and tightness, which later can cause jaw popping and pain.

Massage is extremely effective in relieving TMJ pain. Focusing on the neck, back of the head, shoulders, temples, jaw, chin and scalp it loosens up the muscle and relaxes the stressed person. Massage that alleviates TMJ pain can be practiced quite conveniently in a chair, on-site. Chair massage is a great, convenient way to receive pain relief for TMJ. Pressure is place from the fingers tips to the base of the skill, along the neck and temples. When the client is asked to open their mouth fully, the jaw joint can be stretched for 5 to 7 minutes. Massage on the affected area can last between 3 and 4 minutes.

Because the main product of TMJ and Bruxism is stress, the effected person should have "stress-management" massage as well. A good, convenient way to receive this treatment is by getting a chair massage at least once weekly. This should keep the body's overall stress levels down. As was previously discussed people suffering from TMJ have a higher amount of stress in their bodies due to the fact that when they go to bed at night, instead of relaxing from the stress of the day, their jaws seize up for the 7-8 hours they are asleep.

This stress can build up and needs to be released. On-site massage is also a great way to release tension at work. Chair massages are convenient not time consuming as going to a masseuse would be.

TMJ can be regularly soothed by common remedies. You should eat soft foods and never chew gum. Also avoiding clenching ones jaw is a good way to keep stress away from the joint. Also avoid tension. At least twice a day you should sit with a moist heat pack against your jaw for a least half an hour. These modest remedies are good advice for anyone suffering from TMJ.

How To Find The Best Massage Schools

Finding the best massage school can take a lot of time and energy. It entails expending effort that guarantees no positive results when it comes to searching for the best school. Foolproof your search efforts by following the suggestions below:

- Get information from other people. Go to the nearest spas or wellness centers in your area and ask about massage schools they prefer to hire from. Doing so gives you an idea about schools that employers prefer and have a good name.

- Check out massage schools yourself. Be specific about the location as to where you actually want to gain employment and look for schools in that area. States have varying licensing requirements and awareness of these prerequisites will help you find the top schools in the area.

- Call and visit the schools. Contact the school's admissions department and ask questions about requirements, tuition fee, scholarships, program set of courses, schedules, and other queries that you might have. They might even send you brochures containing detailed information about the different programs and curriculum they offer specifically on health-related courses. Some schools even offer program orientations pertaining to their courses, thus, it would be a good opportunity for you to have a more in-depth view about massage therapy as a course and as a possible career.

If you can, it is also highly advisable that you make an ocular of the school in order for you to get a feel of the environment. Talk to the guidance counselors, registrars, and admissions clerks, too.

Do not be swayed by salary claims. A school is still a business, thus, to attract more students, some would claim that their graduates earn as much as $50,000 (or more) after graduating. This is an outright lie because new graduates make around $20,000-$30,000 per year. As you build your reputation and gain more experiences, you build your clientele as well as your bank account - only then can you charge a higher rate. Therefore, do your own research.

- Learn more about being a massage therapist. Do you want to be in the business of helping others get well and feel better? Are you aware about the pros and cons of being a massage therapist? Whatever is your answer to the questions, ensure that you have done your research and have asked around. Talk to massage therapists yourself or business owners to get information about their starting salaries, what makes them stay in the massage industry, anything that they do not like about the business, and tips on how to become successful as a massage therapist.

- Get in touch with the school's graduates. If you know some people who graduated from the school, call and ask them about their experiences while attending that school. Were the teachers helpful towards their students? Did they get guidance support when they needed it? Did they offer job placement assistance? Likewise, ask the graduates about their experiences, realizations while job-hunting, and where they are now in their career as a massage therapist. This will likely give you an idea if massage therapy is indeed for you.

Becoming a massage therapist is indeed a lucrative job. It may be a seasonal thing, but with people experiencing stress at work and in life in general, more and more are realizing the benefits of having good massages to de-stress themselves, and that is where the opportunity to work as a therapist comes in.

Relaxing Your Body With Thai Massage

If you are talking about what is famous in Thailand - Thai Food? Thai Dance? Thai Temples? One thing that comes to many tourists' minds is Thai Massage. That's right, this ancient Massage art is one thing that you should not miss when visiting Thailand. But First, you should know what Thai massage is before you walk into the wrong kind of Thai massage place.

Thai Massage is one component of Thai medicine which in the old days was performed by monks. It is a stretching and deep massage. The therapist uses his or her hands, knees, legs and feet to move you into a series of stretches. Normally there is no oil used in traditional massage (so you can be fully dressed) but sometimes if you only want to have feet and leg massage, the therapist will use oil for relaxing the muscles. At various stages during the massage, the therapist will guide you into another position. Because the treatment is meditative, it is usually performed in silence to allow both you and the therapist time to focus and reflect.

What is so good about Thai Massage?

Well, it will increase your sense of calm and energy, relieve pain and muscle tension, increase blood circulation, improve flexibility, treat backache /headache/ shoulder pain/ numbness and tired limbs, and reduce stress. There are so many good reasons for you to get a Thai massage. So After a long day of shopping or business meetings, find yourself a nice relaxing massage place near your hotel and spend 30 minutes there. I guarantee that you will feel fresh, like a brand new person.

If you have never tried Thai massage before you should know all these rules before you get one.

• Do not eat a heavy meal before massage.


• Make sure that the therapist has your complete health history because people with certain conditions such as infectious skin disease, rash, open wounds, pregnant, and heart disease should not have this form of massage.


• If you feel discomfort, let your therapist know.

Where is the best place to get Thai Massage?

Wat Po or Wat Phra Chetuphon is well known as the Temple of Reclining Buddha and inside there's Wat Po Thai Traditional Medicine and Massage School opened since 1955. If you want to have real Thai massage or take Thai massage courses, this is the place to go.

It's a real pleasure to visit this beautiful Thai temple for yourself. Even if you can't just type in Wat Po massage into the search engine and there is a wealth of information to be had.

If you stay in the tourist areas (Silom, Sukhumvit or Khao Sarn Road), there are many massage places for you to pick from, at a variety of prices (from 250 baht to 1,500 baht per 60 minutes)

Don't Miss This - Fish Massage!

Fish Massage is becoming popular for tourists in Thailand. You just sit and put your feet into the fish tank. These fish are Turkish Garra Rufa fish and they like to eat dead skin. Of course, you will feel a bit weird and ticklish because there are about 200 fishes sucking your feet. But after you finish, your feet will be smoother. This will cost you about 200 baht per 15 minutes. This is a wonderful experience that I have I have only found in South East Asia.

When visiting Thailand spend the time to enjoy these traditional comforts and relaxations.

Benefits of Indian Head Massage

Indian Head Massage works on both a physical and psychological level, the techniques used represent a de-stressing programme for the whole body. By massaging the head and shoulders, energies will become re-balanced and a general feeling of relaxation will be achieved. Indian Head Massage can improve blood flow to the head and neck, which increases the distribution of nutrients to encourage healing throughout the body.

Clients come away with a deep feeling of comfort and relaxation. Indian Head Massage works on areas affected by mental and emotional stress. We spend much of our trying to sort things out in our head which leads to enormous stress. Stress accumulates and one day leads to the next with no break from the tension that is building up in our neck and shoulders. The massage can really help to calm the mind and is deeply relaxing. We work with a firm and gentle rhythm to help relieve muscular discomfort and tension. People feel the tension release which calms the spirit and aids relaxation. The treatment also improves circulation in the head, enhances the senses and promotes clear thinking.

The massage usually begins with the upper back, where a combination of deep massage and pressure points help to relax the muscles and to loosen up tight knots. We can use our electrical massager at this point which will help relieve the deep-seated muscles and reduce trigger points. Moving through the shoulders and upper arms further releases the common spots for holding stress and tension.

We continue deeply into the neck where headaches and tension are reduced. Moving up to the scalp, techniques are used that stimulate, relax and revive the whole of the head, increasing circulation and promoting healthy hair. Finally the treatment may include a gentle face massage with techniques that help circulation, skin tone, and sinus problems.

Due to the fact that the positive benefits of the treatment are achieved in a relatively short space of time it is ideally suited to busy schedules. However, it can be of equal interest to anybody seeking an introduction to "hands on" therapy, or to those searching for an alternative to body massage.

The therapy is received in a seated position, which is especially beneficial for those who find lying prone on a couch uncomfortable. IHM can also serve as a comfortable aid to tension relief during pregnancy. Indian Head Massage is a complementary treatment which should not be viewed as an alternative to conventional medicine. IHM does not diagnose or cure, but promotes the mental and physical conditions necessary to foster positive good health and prevent ill-health.

7 Oils for Massage Therapy

Massage oils are important in massage therapy. There are even more types of massage lubrication's than there are massage techniques and each type of lubrication is different. Essential lubrication's are usually mixed with regular massage lubrication for aromatherapy, even though they can be used alone for massage purposes.

Each type of lubrication performs unique functions and the choice of massage lubrication would depend on the preference of the massage specialist or what results the specialist is after. Below are some favorites with massage specialists.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is a lubrication which is similar to the type of lubrication found in the human body. Jojoba oil is quite friendly to the skin and does not cause irritation. It works particularly for sensitive skin that is prone to blemishing and acne and is a great moisturizer. It has a light and pleasant aroma making it a first choice and also as carrier lubrication it can be mixed with an essential oil for aromatherapy.

Almond Oil

The softening and relaxing properties of almond oil are ideal because they can help the skin regain a balance of moisture, even in the driest of times. Almond oil has a light, sweet smell. It is a favorite with massage specialists as it spreads easily across the skin during massage sessions.

Apricot Oil

Apricot oil is used for inflammation of the skin. It contains fatty acids and is used to revitalize dehydrated skin. It is a lubrication that is rich in properties and works on both young and mature skin. It is a favorite for facial massages.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil is great for the skin and is used in detoxification. It is also used to alleviate conditions like extreme dryness of the skin and poor circulation. Although it does not enjoy the popularity enjoyed by almond or jojoba oils, sesame oil is used for holistic practices and is used to calm anxiety. It is a thick lubrication and can leave the skin feeling greasy after a massage. To eliminate this uncomfortable aspect, it is best to mix sesame oil with another lighter massage lubrication, using the sesame in little portions.

Fractionated Coconut Oil

Fractionated coconut oil is a massage lubrication that is really light. It is referred to as fractionated coconut oil because only a fraction of the actual coconut oil is actually contained in this lubrication.

Fractionated coconut oil cheaper than many other lubrication's and has a long shelf life like jojoba. The major advantage of fractionated coconut oil is that is does not really stain the sheets, which is an issue with a lot of massage lubrication's. Perhaps this is what adds to mark fractionated coconut oil as the preferred lubrication amongst massage specialists.

Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil is non greasy, light and doesn't leave the skin oily. The oil, extracted from sunflower seeds, is rich in essential acids that make up healthy skin. It works to rejuvenate the linoleic acid in the skin which declines with age. However, if there is a sunflower allergy in the medical history of a client, it should be avoided.

Avocado Oil

The Avocado oil is an extract from the avocado fruit. It is a deep green in color. Because of the heavy nature of the oil, it is usually combined with lighter lubrication's such as sweet almond oil. Avocado oil is quite expensive and those who are sensitive to latex might be sensitive to avocado oil.

These lubrication's will work very well in any massage technique from deep tissue massage to hot stone massages.

Massage Your Way to Crohns Relaxation

The mind is a powerful tool that can help you overcome physical suffering if you know how to use it. However, not everyone can benefit from guided imagery. Therefore, it's not a bad idea to explore other forms of alternative and complimentary treatment such as massage therapy to help bring some Crohn's relaxtion.

What is massage therapy? Massage therapy is the method of applying various pressure techniques to the body's muscular structure and soft tissues, in order to improve various systems in the body including the musculoskeletal, circulatory-lymphatic and nervous systems.

The most common massage techniques include applying stationary or moveable pressure, kneading, holding, rocking, friction or vibration. These techniques are usually applied with the hands, but the elbows, forearms or feet can also be used.

General message therapy benefits - Massage therapy offers many physical and mental benefits that may include:

-Full body relaxation

- Relieves tight, aching and tired muscles

- Increases range of motion and flexibility

- Calms the nervous system

- Lowers heart rate and blood pressure

- Relieves chronic pain

- Helps speed recovery from illness and injury

- Strengthening of the immune system

- Helps one achieve mental relaxation

- Encourages goodnight sleep

- Alleviates tension headaches

- Reduces stress.

How does massage therapy benefit Crohn's sufferers? Studies, conducted on massage therapy as treatment for Crohn's disease symptoms, found that massage therapy can have a powerful and positive effect on the emotional distress that is psychologically caused by the condition. Stress plays an integral role in Crohn's disease symptoms. Stress has been know to make Crohn's symptoms worse, which often results in pain and in some cases even more serious conditions that require hospitalization and can lead to death.

Massage therapy has also provided many Crohn's sufferers relief from pain, and also reduces the frequency of attacks.

Different types of massages. There a diverse number of massage techniques that can be combined or used separately depending on the needs of the individual. For those with Crohn's disease, some massage therapies that may be used include but are not limited to:

Swedish massage - This is the most common massage used in North America and is characterized by long smooth motions, kneading or applying friction to the surface of the muscles. This type of massage encourages overall relaxation, improves circulation, and relieves tension within the muscles.

Deep tissue massage - This massage involves the use of deep slow stroking motions, friction, or direct pressure to the muscles. Intense pressure is applied for this massage to penetrate deeper into the muscles. It helps relieve chronic muscle tension.

Neuromuscular massage - This massage focuses on the deep penetration of individual muscles. Its purpose is to increase blood flow and release knots of tension that exist in muscles connected to other areas of the body where pain is present. The release of this muscle tension often reduces painful symptoms.

Acupressure - this is a massage-like therapy similar to acupuncture. However, pressure is applied to the specific points within the acupuncture meridians with the finger or thumb, and not with acupuncture needles. Like neuromuscular massage, acupressure is designed to help relieve painful symptoms and also works to bring balance to the body and mind.

If you are considering massage therapy, seek treatment from a qualified massage therapist who has experience treating inflammatory bowel disease symptoms. Since you are seeking relief from Crohn's symptoms, you need to find someone who understands how to use different massage techniques and applies the right amount of pressure. For instance, applying too much pressure can cause the body to tense, while not enough pressure will lead to insufficient results. Thus, each person receiving massage therapy needs to be accessed differently.

To find a skilled massage therapist that specializes in crohn's relaxtion ask your health care provider, a physiotherapist, your local hospital, check the yellow pages or conduct a search online.

Total Massage: Step-By-Step Massage Techniques to Relax Body and Mind by Karen Smith

"Total Massage: Step-by-Step Massage Techniques to Relax Body and Mind" by Karen Smith is a straight forward book instructing basic massage through photo sequences and explanations of various massage strokes and techniques. Smith, a former professional dancer is a professionally qualified masseuse, aromatherapist, and reflexologist and runs her own Pilates studio in London. In this book, Smith has done a good job of introducing massage through her writing and the commissioned photography of Antonia Deutsch. I don't know if there is anything that really makes this stand out from all of the other massage books throughout the years, but if you want a basic book on massage, this is a good book for that.

Smith starts the book with an introduction on the importance of touch and what the book will cover. Then there is a short bit on touch and fragrance with information on essential oils and how to blend them. She also provides her reasons for why you should massage with oils, and then has a good little piece on preparing a massage. With these preliminaries taken care of, she goes into describing techniques such as effeurage, or "to skim over;" petrissage or "to knead;" kneading; wringing; thumb glides; thumb circling; cupping and hacking; feathering and stroking; and knuckling. Each of these descriptions is short and clear, and accompanied by photographs.

The next section of the book is titled a voyage around the body, and includes descriptions of different areas of the body and explanations of its importance and its connection with other body parts, as well as the benefits of massage for each area. These include the back; the neck and shoulders; the buttocks; the backs of the legs; the face; the head and scalp; the chest; the arms; the hands; the abdomen; the front of the legs; and the feet.

The next part, the sensual calendar, focuses on the influence the seasons have on people, and the types of massages that will support needs during each season. It's a fairly short section that has a couple of pages per season. The next section, the pleasures of water, has information on relaxing the mind and body, home spas, water therapies, and purifying and toning the skin.

The last portion of the book cover stress management through touch and touch and holistic vision. Each of these major sections is color coded by the margins of the book, making it easy to quickly find what you are looking for. If you are looking for a simple guide that illustrates the basics of massage and its role in a holistic approach to health and well-being, you will most likely find this book beneficial. It is not a text book on massage, as you might find if attending a massage school, but it was not meant to be. The book is meant for the reader who wants to learn a little more about massage and health. If that's what you are looking for, check out this book.

Physiotherapy: Explanation, History, and Specialties

Physiotherapy, or physical therapy, is focused on maximizing quality of life and movement. When function is diminished by age, disease, injury, or the environment, this field can help. Often, physiotherapy helps restore and develop the movements that make life livable for humans. Physical therapists or physiotherapists are the key factor in the healing process. They work with patients, their families, and other professionals to get the best results for the patient. Usually the therapist makes a diagnosis based on the history of an individual and a physical exam. Also, the therapists in this field build up movement through exercises, education, and manual therapy. Lastly, the history of this type of therapy is key in understanding the professionals in it and the therapy itself.

Early physicians, such as Hippocrates, are thought to be the first to use physiotherapy. They used massages and hydrotherapy to treat some of their patients. However, the first documented use of this therapy was by Per Henrik Ling, the man who founded the Royal Central Institute of Gymnastics (or RCIG). The RCIG was aimed at providing massage and exercise above all else. In 1894 a group of nurses founded the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and in 1913 a school for this therapy was founded in New Zealand. It only continued to spread from there. In the U.S., a specialization for physiotherapy was finally created in 1974 and since has continued to advance and improve. Now a day, there are even multiple specialty areas within this therapy.

Cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation are within a section called Cardiopulmonary. Geriatric physical therapy is the second field, focusing on aging and usually older adults. Neurological physiology targets individuals with neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease. Then there is orthopedic therapy which treats patients with musculoskeletal system injuries. Pediatric therapy almost always focuses on infants, children, and adolescents. The professionals in this section treat a wide variety of issues, including injuries, disorders, and diseases. Finally there is the type of physiotherapy know as integumentary. Physiotherapists in the field solve issues with skin and related organs, such as burns or wounds. While there are some other fields within this type of therapy, these are the six most recognized because together they encompass problems with the entire human body.

Why Online Massage Training is Better Than Going to Massage School

If you're interested in online massage training, that's fantastic. As you probably already know, massages offer a slew of benefits - whether it be from helping other people, or you self massaging yourself. However, going to a school might not always be the best option. Online massage training tends to beat school out in my ways, and for a few reasons. Here are some:

You might not like it! - How awful would it be to plunk down thousands of dollars on a massage training education, switch around your schedule to make it to school, tell everybody about your decision as you get more emotionally invested in it - and then decide you don't like it?

There's nothing more disappointing than being super-energized about something and then having it fade out completely. An online training beats out going to school because the courses would be less expensive, and you would be able to do them at your convenience. Because of the anonymous nature of them, you wouldn't even have to tell anybody until your mind was made up that you loved massages.

It costs a lot of money! As mentioned, massage schools can cost anywhere from $1k up to many thousands of dollars. If budget is an issue, or if you're just not 100% that this is what you want to do, it can be a huge drawback to have to lay out that kind of money.

Online training beats this because you can get year-long training very inexpensively, even though you get course-style lessons.

It takes up a lot of time! Going to massage school takes a lot of time. You have the commute to school, the time you spend at school, the time it takes for teachers to answer other people's questions that you might already know the answer to, etc.

With online massage training, you can learn at your own pace, and you can do it from the comfort of your own home, so you never have to worry about neglecting anything else to further your education. Overall, online training tends to be a much better idea for many people. If they end up liking it, they can certainly go to a school and get their accreditations - but for a fraction of the price online, they can make sure it's even worth it in the first place.

Physical Therapy Marketing Tools For Physical Therapy Private Practice

You went to school, put the time in, and now you are off to create your own practice. Before long, you quickly realize that you need physical therapy marketing tools. Your practice, as you realized, is a business and it takes more than just opening the doors in order to get business and grow your practice.

There are a couple of very effective physical therapy marketing tools that will help. There are a couple of very effective physical therapy marketing tools that will help you to grow your business by leaps and bounds. It doesn't matter if you have the best mouse trap if no one knows that you even have a mouse trap. You have to get the word out, and these tactics will help you do just that.

The first tool is simple, it's customer service. It's a dog eat dog world, and even the smallest complaint can cause problems for your business. It's essential that you work toward delivering on your promise all the time, every time. This includes accepting more different kinds of insurance, getting patients in on time every time, and other small details that matter to the patient.

The second effective physical therapy marketing tools is to create word of mouth. A person talking about your business is worth a hundred ads in the newspaper or on television. Be creative, and find incentives for people who refer other people to your practice. This could include specialized free information, a banquet, a preferred customer card with discounts or money to spend at the local super store. Be creative and you will get results.

If word of mouth is the most effective way to get more clients and patients, where are the people who are most likely to use or need your services? Local sporting events and teams are one example, as well as local factories and big industries. Find ways to get in front to these people. Possibly a free consultation or a seminar on worker safety techniques in order to avoid injury.

The key is that you need to be creative. The more creative you are, the more results you will get when using these effective physical therapy marketing tools. Marketing doesn't take a degree, but it does take some thinking and understanding about the way people think and work on a regular basis.

Physical Therapist Assistant Job Description - Work Requirements and Conditions

What does a PTA do? Here's a physical therapist assistant job description.

A physical therapy assistant works under the supervision of a physical therapist. A PTA will use treatments to help improve the mobility and reduce the pain in a patient. He or she even helps to relieve the disability that is caused by the illness or injury.

Physical therapists and their assistants usually work in hospitals, nursing homes, or clinics. They are part of a health care team that includes doctors, occupational therapists, and social workers.

PTAs work with people of all ages. Some work with elderly patients who have trouble moving about. Some work with handicapped children, and others work with patients who have lost an arm or a leg, have arthritis problems, or are paralyzed. They use many different types of equipment and procedures. They treat patients by using massage, exercise, heat, cold, and light. Assistants teach patients how to use and care for wheelchairs, braces, and artificial limbs.

Assistants have other duties that give physical therapists more time to put their special training to use. Assistants may do some office work, for example, or they may get equipment ready for the therapist. They may also prepare a patient for a therapy session.

A Day in a Physical Therapist Assistant's Life

On a typical day a physical therapist assistant will perform components of treatment procedures including: ultrasound, traction, hot and cold packs, paraffin baths, electrical stimulation, massages, exercises

Education and Training Requirements

To become a physical therapist assistant, an individual must have a high school diploma or its equivalent. Candidates should take courses in mathematics and science in high school. Prospective physical therapy assistants can also get experience by volunteering part time in a hospital or clinic or working with handicapped children in summer camps.

Most PTAs have an associate degree from an accredited physical therapist assistant program. Some states require licensure or registration for the physical therapist assistant to practice. Most employers provide clinical on-the-job training.

Working Conditions

Physical therapy assistants usually work in clean, pleasant places. Their patients may sometimes be depressed by their disabilities. Assistants can help them by being cheerful and encouraging. Physical therapist assistants should also be healthy and able to work well with their hands. Most physical therapist assistants work forty hours per week, but some work part time.

Louis Zhang, Physicaltherapyassistantprograms dot com

The Demand for Massage Therapy Chairs

Massage therapists are in high demand. Consumers recognize the physical and mental health benefits of a good massage. Americans are overworked and overstressed. Massage is a way to decrease tension and relief from back and neck pain. Many companies have instituted on-site massage therapists for their employees, and those therapists typically shop for durable and lightweight massage therapy chairs to enhance customer satisfaction.

Therapists have a wide variety of massage therapy chairs to choose from. From basic models, which allow the customer to sit comfortably during the massage to expensive high-tech models, virtually every avenue has been explored. As more is understood about the body's response to ergonomic techniques, the advancement of designs of these chairs will certainly evolve as well.

Most of the massage therapy chairs available have been designed with both the customer and the therapist in mind. A popular option among therapists is the folding massage therapy chair; this model allows for convenient transport and storage. It is lightweight and not bulky. In smaller office settings, these foldable chairs are an ideal way to save space and offer a neater appearance in the massage room.

Massage therapy chairs are considered to be viable alternatives to lying on a massage table. Today's models are designed to be comfortable and ergonomic. Ergonomic chairs are ideal for those with severe pain or neck pain since they are designed with those ailments in mind.

These chairs are also available in a variety of price ranges. For students or beginning massage therapists, model can start out at just under $200. Some of the portable models even come with a carrying case for easy travel. Students and professionals alike seem to be leaning more toward using massage therapy chairs in their practices. Because they are easily transported and versatile, therapists can expand their business and satisfy their customers' needs with simple solutions.

History of Massage Therapy

Therapy through massage dates back as one of the oldest forms of healing. Massage therapy is rooted throughout history as a medical practice to repair injuries, ease pain, and as a preventative measure against sickness. Massage therapy has mainly been an act of medicine however at certain times in history it shifted and turned into a form of pleasure. Today it has regained a respectable place among natural healing methods across the country.

The earliest form natural healing practice started in India around 3,000 B.C.

• The practice Ayurveda is based on the premise that mind, body, and spirit are connected, and that illness and disease is the body's natural way of communicating disharmony.


• Ayurveda incorporates five senses in order to help an individual interact with their surroundings, which will create harmony.


• This commonly used practice includes the art of touch therapy.

Egypt tomb paintings depict that Egyptians started practicing massage between 3,000 and 2,500 B.C. China started using massage around the same time as Egypt. Chinese documents referring to the treatment date back to around 2,700 B.C. A Chinese book from that time titled The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine lists breathing exercises and rubbing of skin as appropriate treatment for different types of illnesses.

Around 1,000 B.C. Japanese monks in China observed Buddhism and saw first hand the therapeutic methods of Chinese medicine. Soon after, Japan started implementing Chinese massage training methods into their own traditional medicine. This integration of the practice gave rise to today's popular technique known as Shiatsu. This form of massage is used to arouse pressure points to raise energy levels and promote resistance to illness.

Practices and philosophies in the east reached Western culture around 800 to 700 B.C. Ancient Greece used it for their athletes to stay in peak condition for competition. Physicians used different techniques along with oils and herbs to treat a number of medical ailments. In the fifth century B.C. the father of Western Medicine Hippocrates stated that the physician must be experienced in massage. He explained that a physician could bind a bad joint if it's too loose and loosen a joint that is to tight.

Rome adopted the practice between 100 and 200 B.C. to treat various physical ailments and diseases. Rome created areas where individuals would go to get a body massage to loosen their joints and. increase circulation Eventually these places became a place to go for pleasure and not healing. Constantine the Roman Emperor condemned the baths in the fourth century.

Massage therapy practice weakened in the West up until sometime around 1600 because advancements in pharmacology and medical technology were increasing and manual medicine like massage therapy faded. Around the 1800s Per Henrik Ling, a Swedish physician created a system that incorporated new techniques for use on the treatment of gymnasts. Techniques such as pressing, stroking, and squeezing and striking were used to treat physical issue. His techniques were used and modified and today it's known as Swedish massage.

In the United States the therapy was seen as an indulgence for wealthy people until interests rose in natural healing practices in the twentieth century. The practice is now regulated in almost every state and education standards for licensing have been established. Today the practice is a legitimate method of alternative medicine because of the society's focus on wellness. Those who wish to pursue training in alternative healing can learn more by visiting holisticjunction.com and requesting information from schools and colleges that carry full accreditation from an agency like the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation ( http://www.comta.org/ ).

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERIC OUTLINE and may or may not depict precise methods, courses and/or focuses related to ANY ONE specific school(s) that may or may not be advertised on HolisticJunction.com.
Copyright 2010 - All rights reserved by HolisticJunction.com.

A Review Of Couples Massage Therapy

Couples therapy using massages is fast becoming a popular technique being used by marriage counselors. The process of getting couples to forget their troubles and relax together creates an atmosphere that can be easily replicated when the masseuse is not available or around.

The calming and relaxation that is brought on by having a NYC couples massage seems to have some effect on both men and women. Undoubtedly if there is a deep rooted problem then definite counseling is needed. However doing this in addition to counseling can have a major effect on the couple. Let's look at the real purpose of a massage.

A massage is aimed at relieving stress and muscle tension. Stress leads to muscle tension, by gently massaging muscles, there is relief of this stress. When the main cause of stress lies in a marriage or relationship, then relief of the stress simultaneously with the man and woman can really have results. Empirical evidence documented by psychiatrist's shows that a couple having a massage in the same room, speaking together at the same time seems to relieve some emotional and physical tension that has built up between two people. This is important here for many people to fix their ailing relationship.

There are several types of massage and categories that have been used. Primarily both the deep tissue massage and Swedish massages have resulted in some really excellent results. This goes across the categories of troubled couples, prenatal couples and even geriatric massages. The important aspect is to get the trigger point for both couples; this can be achieved using things such as hot stones. This not only causes and increases in body energy but leads to a level of intimacy between both man and woman.

1. A NYC couples massage relieves tension between you and your spouse as it allows you to relax together.

2. It permits both to take part in a very pleasurable moment, together - not something that causes undue stress between the two.

3. It removes apprehension that men feel as having their spouse in the room removes the inhibition of nudity or partial nudity inside a room.

4. It fortifies your mental health by making your body completely relaxed. Reaching that combination seemingly between body and spirit.

5. It improves blood circulation, removes painful knots that are as a direct result of stress.

The Health Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

There was a time when the thought of a massage would bring a spa to mind. A luxurious setting in a health club or at an upscale resort may come to mind. Times have changed and so has deep tissue massage therapy.

There is a variety of massage types. The general term means the manipulation and rubbing of the skin, tendons, muscles and ligaments. Therapists generally use their hands and fingers for massage, but may also incorporate the use of elbows and forearms to achieve the desired result.

Deep tissue massage uses a more forceful approach. The slow, forceful technique is used to target those layers of connective tissue and muscle that are deeper in the body. This is usually the method chosen for the relief of damage due to injuries. Deep muscle massage concentrates on realigning the deeper layers of muscle. While many of the movements are the same, the strokes are slower and deeper.

Although massage has been considered an alternative type of medicine in the past, it is becoming increasingly popular among professionals for relief of many conditions and various situations. People who have subscribed to the use of deep muscle massage will be quick to tell you of its many benefits.

Deep tissue massage breaks down the adhesions (bands of rigid, painful tissue) and consequently relieves pain and allows the client to restore natural movement.

During the massage, the client may experience some discomfort due to the pressure applied. The client needs to tell the therapist when the pain or discomfort is beyond their personal comfort zone.

The problems that are generally dealt with during deep tissue massage are:

1. Limited mobility due to injury or disease process

2. Chronic pain

3. Carpal tunnel syndrome and other injuries that may be caused by repetitive movement

4. Osteoarthritis

5. Whiplash, sports injuries or falls

6. Fibromyalgia

7. Muscle spasm

During the massage, the therapist will ask you to take deep breaths. This is done at certain points of the massage when the therapist is working on specific areas. The process will release metabolic waste substances from the muscles. It is important to drink a large amount of water following the massage. This will flush the waste from the system.

If you have never had a deep tissue massage, be aware that you should not eat a heavy meal prior to your appointment. You should arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.

The Benefits Of Tantric Massages

A lot of people travel often for business. Business persons who travel may think that relaxation aside from sleeping is not possible from one's hotel room. Such thoughts are actually proved to be wrong! Receiving a massage is the best way to achieve just that. From the comfort of one's hotel room, you may be able to receive a massage allowing you to leave all the worries of your business problems and stresses behind. There are outcall massage services that one can take advantage of. Before going to bed straight after a business meeting, why not spend an hour or two redeeming a tantric massage within the comforts of your own hotel room. Such a massage will leave you feeling with a renewed sense of sensual energy not only for your body but also for your mind and spirit.

Tantric massage services are popular in any city. This kind of massage is a type of therapy that combines traditional massages of both the East and the West. Generally the purpose is to clear out the blockage of emotions and energy found within your body. The goal is to reawaken and channel your sensual energy.

There are a lot of health benefits one may receive from experiencing an outcall massage. Tantric massage in particular allows the client to experience a state of enabling peaceful energy to enter the body. As an effect, it reduces all stress, negative emotions and feelings prior to the massage session. It also sends the mind into hibernation mode allowing one to focus on the emotions of wellness while being massaged. Overall, a tantric massage will optimize your body's stamina and energy levels, leading to you being a more astute and successful business person.

Just because a tantric massage is sensual it does not mean that it is purely sexual. The truth is, sexual energy can be converted into other forms of positive energy within your body. So if you're on a short business trip, whether for critical business dealings or not, be assured that you can relieve all stress built up due to taxing business dealings. A tantric massage also allows you to make more positive and efficient decisions. If you have a few hours to spare before that crucial meeting, it might be your best option to receive a tantric massage.

An amazing massage will ease all the discomforts of jetlag and replace it with a feeling of relaxation. Tantric massages also balance the levels of high blood pressure as well as aid in detoxifying wastes from your body. It also increases circulation, in that oxygen and nutrients will have an easier flow while at the same time releasing a good amount of endorphins responsible for making one feel good and positive.

Benefits of Massage After Car Accidents

Many people wait for an injury in their life to seek out massage therapy. Those that have car accidents are a typical example, wanting relief from whiplash and other accident related injuries.

Massage therapy is an excellent choice to assist you in healing from a car accident. After an accident, people are most likely to feel like they have the flu or describe the symptoms as feeling like they got hit by a car. Weakness in the neck may also be felt due to whiplash. Whiplash is the sudden jerking of the head, backward and forward, that is felt during impact of the vehicle. The symptoms: pain and aching to the neck and/or back, pain in the shoulders, pins and needles to the extremities (arms and legs), and headaches. The symptoms may be felt immediately or not show up for several days. The precise mechanism of whiplash is not known but it is thought to be caused by stretching and possibly tearing of the ligaments of the spine.

Massage can be very beneficial in treatment of this injury. Often times, clients are referred to a therapist by a chiropractor or other medical provider for a certain number of massage therapy sessions. A safe environment for auto accident clients is extremely important. Sometimes their life is turned upside down by this injury and they are unable to live their life as normal, which in itself can be quite stressful.

A therapist who attends to a client with any type of accident related injuries will assess the areas of injury for range of motion, elasticity and pain tolerance. The therapist should always be aware of the restrictions in their movements and also the tenderness of the areas to be massaged. This is where the communication factor comes in. They will constantly check to ensure that they are within your comfort boundaries. Communication from the client is also paramount to the success of the massage.

Massage helps with these types of injuries due to the fact that it increases circulation (blood supply) to an area thereby giving it the nutrients it needs to heal properly and rids the area of waste products. It can also increase range of motion, reduce sprain and swelling, reduce stress, and may help to prevent scar tissue. It can help your body regain its balance from the stress of the accident by balancing your autonomic nervous system, thereby reducing stress. I have been on both sides of the "table" so to speak as a therapist and a car accident victim. I was in a car that was rear ended in 2005 and had whiplash which resulted in devastating headaches. I also had lower back pain and referred shoulder and arm pain.

I immediately began a regiment of chiropractic adjustments as well as 2 visits to a massage therapist per week. I had a wonderful therapist and she was always very empathetic as well as patient with me during our time together. She was always careful to ask about my pain level in each and every area that she touched. I was unsure of massage as I had never had it when I was in a healthy state. Needless to say, I was a bit skeptical of being touched in an injured state. It was one of the most wonderful experiences that I have gone through to date. There's something about a caring person with amazing skills and a gentle touch to soothe an injured, stressed muscle. Gradually I began to see results and looked forward to my sessions with my therapist. No wonder the ancient Chinese, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans included massage in their daily life!

Massage so fascinated me that I went to massage school and became a therapist. Now I not only have the benefit of getting massages but also giving them. I enjoy seeing the progress that my clients make as a result of our work together.

The bottom line is that if you have had an injury of any type; please seek out a qualified massage therapist so that together you can regain your balance. If you don't know of one, ask your medical provider or your friends and neighbors who have had massages. The calm and healing that it will have on your body will be most beneficial to both your mind and your body.

By Cecilia Comperatore LMT-Florida MA 54038

Holistic Programs - Popular Studies

Find Holistic Programs in the United States and Canada. If you're pursuing a career in the healing arts, it's time to explore some of the many holistic programs. In addition to holistic healthcare courses, students can apply to programs in natural health, energy healing, spiritual counseling, herbology, iridology, massage therapy, and more.

Some of the more popular holistic programs include training in herbalism. Typical subject matter involves anatomy, physiology, wild crafting, medical botany, herbal medicine formulation, preparation/dosing; ointments, lineaments, basic nutrition, Bach flower remedies, herb cultivation, diet and organic foods, supplements and minerals, aromatherapy, Chinese herbal medicine, and first aid. These particular holistic programs are designed for treating the "whole person," often resulting in a certificate or diploma of completion. However, holistic programs in herbalism are frequently part of acupuncture and Oriental medicine school curricula, as well as naturopathic studies.

Other popular holistic programs include hands-on training in various massage therapies. These courses are usually between 300 and 500 hours in length; but in some healing arts schools, advanced massage programs run well beyond these training hours. General education entails anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and the history and philosophy of massage. The difference between massage courses is each one of these holistic programs covers its own set of bodywork modalities. In standard massage programs, students will learn massage techniques like deep tissue massage and Swedish massage; in more comprehensive curricula, students gain practical training in these disciplines, as well as geriatric massage, Trigger point therapy, craniosacral therapy, infant massage, and Thai massage, among 80+ additional methods.

Some compelling holistic programs focus on nutrition and wellness. In a holistic healthcare practitioner program, students learn about herbal remedies/therapies, bodywork techniques, ear candling, iridology, spiritual counseling, meditation and visualization methods; energy healing therapies (i.e., Reiki, chakra balancing, harmonic balancing), and other mind-body-spirit medicines.

Generally, holistic programs involve natural healing therapies designed to help support and enhance the body's self-healing mechanisms. Students who fulfill all educational requirements of the respective course are awarded a certificate of completion, and in some instances - as with massage therapy - graduates can become Nationally certified upon meeting all eligibility requirements. In addition, there are a number of holistic programs geared toward the professional medical provider, like holistic nursing. These courses involve aforementioned studies, in addition to other relative subject matter; and specifically created for nurses and nurse practitioners seeking to broaden professional healthcare treatment options.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding holistic programs, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore holistic programs [http://school.holisticjunction.com/clickcount.php?id=6634739&goto=http://www.holisticjunction.com/search.cfm] near you.

Holistic Programs - Popular Studies
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Tips to Use Massage Therapy Body Scrubs

Body scrubs are considered as one of the simplest yet the most effective ways to both moisturize everything and exfoliate the top layer of the dead skin as you massage the muscles. While you may think that the body scrubs are simply sugar and salt, actually you can use a plethora of oils and also natural ingredients for the rejuvenating scrub. If you want to know about using massage therapy body scrubs, you can simply check out the following tips.

The first step is to choose the scrub or simply make it by yourself, depending on what you want. In many body care stores, you can easily find olive oil body scrubs that look gently in moisture as they exfoliate.

The second step that you should do is to warm the body that you are going to apply this scrub by doing some gentle massage. If you want to speed the process of warm-up, you can place some warm damp cloth on the body. You have to make sure that the person is relaxed and is not feeling any discomfort like pain from cuts or sores, before you start it.

The third step is to apply liberal amount of body scrub to the particular area like hands, feet, upper back, and arms. In this step, you need to use a gentle massage for working the scrub into the area. You can apply a bit more pressure if the person can tolerate it so that the massage can be more thorough. Try to periodically easy up on the pressure and return to the gentle rubbing motion which focuses to get this scrub into the skin.

For the last step, you should place the damp cloths on area that you worked on after you have applied the scrub and also did the massage. After that, you have to wipe off the skin for removing any residue which settled on the skin surface. Then, you need to use cream or heavy body moisturizer for moisturizing the area and also locking in all of the nutrients and moisture that are provided by the body scrub.

Learning Massage Therapy - A Career With Increasing Opportunities

In ancient Greece, Egypt, China, Rome, and India, massage was a major part of medical practices. They used massage to treat various disorders and physical ailments. By promoting a sense of well being, massage can help you relax and minimize the effects of stress.

The practice of massage therapy affects the whole body. The muscular, immune, nervous, and circulatory systems are all being treated. Even though there are physical benefits to massage, we cannot negate the psychological payback.

The full body massage is one of the most popular massages because it provides the most stress relief. Many people get these massages frequently because it feels so great afterwards. They feel completely relaxed and stress free.

Aside from the full body massage, a therapist can focus on certain, specific parts of the body. Reflexology is an example of a form of massage that focuses on a certain part of the body. Reflexology deals with massaging the foot.

Today, over 70% of hospitals in America offer massage therapy as a part of their program. For many years, massage was considered as alternative medicine. Hospitals now use massage therapy in the treatment stress management, chronic pain, pregnancy, and more. Therapeutic massage has even been known to assist individuals who in alcohol and drug programs.

Professional therapists often combine various techniques to strengthen the massage, like aromatherapy, acupressure, and cupping. Since massage therapy has been embraced in mainstream medicine, many people have experienced the benefits. The demand for therapists is increasing each year so why not check out whats available online.

Massage Therapy - What Are the Different Types?

There are so many different types of massages and choosing the right one can tend to be a little difficult if you are not well informed. It is important to understand your body and what it needs before deciding on the kind of massage to gain maximum benefits and advantages.

Here are some of the most popular types of massages;

A very popular therapy is the Swedish massage which has become quite a favorite among most Westerners. In this form, the masseur uses long and smooth strokes along with kneading and circular movements by the fingers and hands to apply pressure on the superficial layers of the muscle. Generally, this is done using oils or massage lotions created from exotic natural extracts and ingredients. This technique is best for those who are getting a massage for the first time and is a great way to refresh, relax and rejuvenate your body and senses.

Aromatherapy has become a branch of medicine itself and hence a massage using aroma oils or essential oils is highly recommended. Oils are selected by the therapist according to the needs of the person and are massaged into the body for a relaxing, soothing and calming experience. An aromatherapy massage is the best way to de-stress and fight fatigue and also helps you achieve an inner sense of balance and harmony. It is also highly recommended for those who have dry skin as the oils help to nourish and soften the skin and keep it glowing.

Deep tissue massages are for those who are looking for something more than a relaxing experience. Here strokes and friction is used on the muscles so that the pressure reaches the deeper layers of the muscle and connective tissue. This is specifically recommended for people recovering after injures, accidents and for those who suffer from tight muscles, cramps and postural problems. A deep tissue massage can leave you feeling sore and bruised but this only lasts for one or two days after which the positive results begin to show through.

A hot stone massage is also a popular type of therapy where smooth stones are selected and then heated to the right temperature. This is then placed on certain areas of the body warm up and loosen the tightly knotted muscles and also for proper energy flow in the body. The masseur also uses these hot stones to apply gentle pressure at various points and areas. This is an extremely comforting technique and is great for relaxation.

Everyone would have heard of a Thai massage especially a Thai foot massage or reflexology which has become so very popular these days. In a Thai session, the therapist will guide you through a series of movements which includes compressions and stretches to re-align and make your body more flexible. This is more or less like an exercise regimen and makes your body supple and toned after the session.

So go ahead and get the massage of your choice to refresh and calm your tired body and mind.

Physical Therapy Software: Protect Your Clinic From Lawsuits With Proper Documentation

Medical malpractice, improper care, and even medical billing and Medicare fraud issues seem to be springing up overnight in all kinds of clinics and private practices, including those that provide professional therapy for their clients. Although having medical malpractice insurance is one way to protect yourself and your employees, your efforts shouldn't stop there. Professionally designed physical therapy documentation is another avenue every clinic needs to pursue so that they will be able to produce clear, detailed documents pertaining to all treatment protocols and patient outcomes if they are ever audited or investigated in relation to a lawsuit.

Malpractice Protection

Nothing is as devastating as being slapped with a malpractice claim, whether it is against you personally, your employees, or your practice or clinic as a whole. Lawyers will request detailed records for everything from the initial evaluation of the individual being treated to how often and using what techniques your therapists worked with the person in question.

Sadly, you can take every precaution, be a dedicated and caring PT professional and follow all approved treatment protocols and still be put under a microscope in a malpractice suit. Before a verdict is ever reached, the stigma of malpractice errors can jeopardize your career, your clinic and your employees. The more quickly you can produce requested documents, the more quickly you can get to the end of the tunnel and clear your practice's reputation. Complete physical therapy documentation using an award winning PT software package is a pro-active way to assist your attorney while confounding those who are suing you.

What Thorough Physical Therapy Documentation Looks Like

If you've been working with an old filing system or outdated forms that you continually have to amend as restrictions and guidelines change over time, you could run into legal issues. If, however, your clinic has installed physical therapy software that comes pre-loaded with the latest PT forms for everything from Medicare and insurance submissions to appropriate patient questionnaires and detailed pain diagrams, you'll be a step ahead.

To protect yourself with complete physical therapy documentation, use a PT software program that provides you with:

Treatment tracking forms Client records, including daily notes, progress notes and discharge notes Detailed patient instruction sheets Records of results over time Scheduling protocols and recording of no-shows and non-compliance by the patient

Proving Medical Necessity And Medical Appropriateness

Your PT software should also document details of each and every session any one of your therapists have with each client. Careful records should include notes on treatment progression, measurable outcomes and any home exercise recommendations as well as specific task reminders for your therapists and alerts regarding any special care needs for individual patients.

It's almost impossible to keep track of such a voluminous amount of information for every individual, but a well-designed physical therapy documentation program can make it easy for each therapist to update patient records and draw up detailed progress notes. The fact is, the more detailed your records are and the clearer they are, the less likely it is that a malpractice or fraud investigation can have a negative impact on your PT clinic. If you haven't invested in the latest physical therapy software for your practice, now is the time to do so; before a lawsuit wreaks havoc on your career and your family.

Massage Therapy Information - Get The Latest Facts Now

For a very long time, massage therapy has been around. Ancient cultures in China, Egypt, India, Greece and Rome used massage as part of their medical and health procedures.

Massage has been used to treat all kinds of medical conditions and disorders. Massage can be used to treat stress and can help you relax. Most of the time it gives a feeling of well being. Massage therapy works to help different aspects of the physical system - the muscular, nervous, circulatory and immune systems.

Quite apart from the undoubted physical benefits of massage therapy, much of the benefit is psychological; it has to do with the feel-good factor of intimate contact with another human being.

One of the ultimate forms of stress relief is a full body massage. A lot of persons who had a full body massage cannot stop telling people how amazing they felt afterwards. Booking another full body massage is the first thing that someone usually does after experiencing his or her first full body massage. People who've experienced a full body massage all agree that they feel they've managed to attain total relaxation for the first time in their lives.

Massage can also be used on specific or individual parts of the body. The foot is one of the main individual body parts that can be obtained through a specialist form of massages. Foot massage is generally referred to as reflexology.

For a long time, massage therapy was on the fringes of conventional medicine, but the efficacity of massage is generally accepted by modern medical experts. In fact, more than 70% of American hospitals now offer massage therapy as a part of their treatments.

What do hospitals use massage therapy for? They use it in the treatment of chronic pain symptoms, in cancer cases, pregnancy, infant care, joint and muscle mobility, stress management and many other symptoms and disorders.

According to new research massage therapy helps to boost the immune system, manage pain and lower blood pressure.

Massage therapies can be used to aid people who are going through drug and alcohol withdrawal cure. Massage therapy can also be associated to other therapies to strengthen their effects - e.g. aromatherapy, reflexology, acupressure and reiki.

To see massage therapy going from the alternative medicine field to the mainstream means that a lot of persons can now experience the benefits of this very versatile form of treatment and therapy. So if you want to get the benefits of massage therapy you have to do the first step. Get in touch with someone that does massages and find out first hand all the advantages.

How Physical Therapy for Osteoporosis Helps

Osteoporosis affects millions of people and is the second biggest health problem worldwide. Osteoporosis is the condition wherein the bones lose mass and the bone tissues deteriorate. Osteoporosis makes bones thin, fragile, and highly susceptible to fractures.

How does osteoporosis occur? The body continuously eliminates and creates bone cells. As a person grows old, usually starting in the 30's, the body's process of creating bone cells becomes slower than the process of removing them resulting in a great deficit in bone mass. In addition to aging, other factors that make a person at risk of osteoporosis are smoking, sedentary lifestyle, early menopause, and family history.

Known as a silent disease, osteoporosis manifests itself only when the condition is already serious. Most people who suffer from osteoporosis had no idea they had the disease until they experience a fracture or severe pain in the back. What most people are not aware of is you can prevent this disease early in life through exercise and daily calcium intake.

For those at risk of developing osteoporosis or already diagnosed with it, physical therapy for osteoporosis is one of the best ways to fight this disease. Many qualified physical therapists specialize in the treatment of osteoporosis. Physical therapy for osteoporosis begins with a thorough physical evaluation where the therapist identifies restrictions, imbalances and, specifically, what activities and movements the patient is capable of or is limited to doing. The evaluation serves as the basis for the creation of a customized physical therapy program

Physical therapy for osteoporosis patients without a fracture includes strengthening exercises and resistance exercises intended to increase bone mass and make bone-supporting muscles stronger to help prevent fractures. To ease the stress on your bones, your physical therapist will also teach you about body balance, body mechanics and posture. Your therapist will also work with you to find out if there are any risks to you at home and at work such as specific activities that can lead to bone fracture.

Physical therapy for osteoporosis patients suffering a fracture involves specific exercises and other treatment methods designed for pain relief and bone strengthening as well as prevention of fractures in the future.

In addition to exercises, physical therapy for osteoporosis may also include massage, manual therapy, exercises such as Pilates, tai chi and yoga and heat and cold therapies for pain management.

Physical therapy for osteoporosis seeks to strengthen bones, increase flexibility and manage pain. It also increases the patient's awareness of the body and develops responsibility for their own health.

Physical Therapy for Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is the most common type of pain from which people can suffer from during their middle and young age, between the ages of 25 and 55. 80% of the population will experience lower back pain during their lifetime. So, it is very important to understand the activities, which may prolong or exacerbate an episode of lower back pain, and also what to expect when you seek physical therapy.

Physical therapy is one of the techniques that treat the pain causing conditions by means of the physical maneuvers. This will be useful in many situations and it is a very good choice, because it does not require any surgical or medical intervention and the patients can find much relief from their pain.

In general, the aim of this therapy is to decrease the level of back pain, improve the functionality, and also provide education on the maintenance program to stop further recurrences.

Passive Therapy:

There are several forms of Physical therapy. The therapist focuses on reducing the pain with passive therapy. These types of therapies are considered as the passive therapy because these are done to patient.

• Ice or heat packs
• Iontophoresis
• TENS units
• Ultrasound

Active Therapy:

In addition to the passive therapies, the active therapy is also required to rehabilitate spine. Usually, back exercise program of a patient should encompass the following combinations:

• Stretching
• Strengthening
• Low-impact aerobic exercises

There are many advantages of lower back pain physiotherapy. This will increase the healing speed and also provides relief from pain. To acquire best result, it is necessary to continue the treatment for some days.

Lower back physical therapy is the best way to handle the back pain without taking the risk of hazard of chemicals, which can happen due to the usage of medications, and without having surgical procedures and interventions.

Before getting the physiotherapy for lower back pain, it is better to consult the physician, who examines and determines the actual nature of the existed problem. He may give you some useful suggestion for getting relief from the pain. Usually the advice of physiotherapy is given by the health care provider or a doctor.

Physical therapy for the low back pain is also used to treat the people who are practically disabled due to the pain, i.e. they are unable to function normally. For these people, a combined program of exercise and physical therapy treats them at two levels. The exercise program can stretch the muscles and restore their normal functionality. To prevent the recurrence of further pain, you can continue this exercise even after you get relief from the pain.

Basic Exercises for Back Pain and Therapeutic Treatment

Patients suffering from low back pain secondary to muscle weakness, postural problems, muscle spasm or other causes can benefit from basic exercises for back pain that can be done at home. These exercises are usually a part of a therapeutic regimen that is designed to strengthen the trunk muscles and promote proper posture.?

They are introduced and initially performed during physical therapy sessions which are facilitated by trained physical therapists, doctors or other health professionals. Even individuals who do not have back problems can perform these exercises to strengthen and stretch the trunk muscles as well as to facilitate postural training.

Some basic exercises for back pain that can be done at home include wall slides, pelvic tilting, lifting both legs while lying on the back, bent leg sit ups and partial sit ups. These are exercises which can be done during your spare time and do not require any exercise equipment. You can further research online for other exercises which can be highly beneficial for patients who want strengthen their trunk muscles and relieve pain associated with low back problems.

If you have low back problems associated with slipped disc, degenerative joint disease or muscular dysfunction, it is best to see a doctor prior to initiating any form of exercises for back pain. There are certain trunk movements which may be prohibited in order to prevent worsening of your condition. The best thing you can do is to have your case assessed by a doctor and determine the cause of your back problem.?

Appropriate management will be done depending upon the severity of your back problem. Some cases may require physical therapy sessions, exercise training program or even certain PT modalities that can help relieve the tension on your back. Such modalities can help in preparing you for the next phase of your therapy which includes strengthening exercises and postural training.

The most common modalities and PT equipments used in the treatment of low back problems include superficial and deep heating modalities such as ultrasound, infrared radiation and hot moist packs. Other equipments used in the therapy include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation or TENS and the traction table which is used primarily to apply a traction force to relieve the tension in between the vertebral bodies. Physical therapists also facilitate and introduce exercises for back pain.?

The patients are advised to perform these exercises for back pain during therapy sessions as well as at home or during spare time. There are some cases that require restrictions in certain movements such as trunk twisting motion. Patients are taught how to compensate for such limitation in movement through proper postural training (examples; during lifting, sitting down, picking up objects from the floor, etc.). Exercises are usually a part of every therapeutic program for patients suffering from low back problems.

Benefits of Using Stationary Massage Tables

Stationary Massage Tables, ones which are not moved around or carried around like portable ones, have some distinct advantages that portable massage tables don't have. However, not all massage therapists can work with stationary tables. Space is the deciding factor when it comes to choosing a particular type of massage table. If you have a spare room in your home that will only be used for your massage therapy practice, or if you are renting space in an office suite, spa, or health center where your table doesn't have to be put away every night then a stationary table would be a good investment.

These tables can cost more than portable tables, sometimes a lot more, but they are a better investment because usually they will last longer. There are some other advantages that these types of tables have too, if you can afford them. Some of the biggest advantages of stationary tables are:

Sturdier Construction

Because these tables are not made to be light or portable they are generally made of sturdier materials and can hold more weight. They are also usually more comfortable for clients. With a stationary table you won't have to worry about your clients being uncomfortable. Stationary tables are usually made of wood with heavy duty upholstery for comfort. Your clients can really stretch out and get comfortable on these tables.

Longer Lasting

Because Stationary Massage Tables are built from sturdier materials than most portable tables they last much longer than portable tables last. Even though you may pay more up front for a stationary table over time the cost will be minimal because you won't have to replace that table for a long time. Spending the start up money that you have on stationary tables is a good investment because they will hold their value over a long period of time. You can even resell them when you have the funds to get new tables.

Easier To Store

Because they don't get folded up and put away Stationary Massage Tables are easy to store. Throw an old sheet or blanket over them to make sure that no dust gets into the table and to prevent the upholstery from fading and the table will be fine. You can push it out of the way if it's sitting in a room of your home that you use after you're done with massages as long as it's covered so that it doesn't get any dings or nicks.

Getting Up and Out of a Chair Is a Therapeutic Exercise

It may seem like a good idea, to have a chair where the seat automatically lifts you out; without having the struggle of doing it for yourself.

However, I need to be cautious of buying gadgets to help yourself in daily living, because if you are finding this activity difficult to manage; then you will also be having the same concerns when getting on & off the toilet, getting in & out of the shower / bathtub and getting in & out of bed.

If this is the case then you need to see a rehabilitation specialist who will help you manage these transfers safely. You need to talk to your family doctor who make the referral for you to see an Occupational or Physical Therapist.

Self-rising chairs are not necessary because they remove the ability of your leg muscles to do action of getting you up out of the chair. The task of transferring in and out of a chair is 'therapy', because your leg muscles will become stronger, as they get you up and out of the chair in preparation for using your legs for walking.

It may seem a tough task to complete, but trust me as an Occupational Therapist, you will be pleased that you keep pushing yourself to perform the activity; because it will becomes easier the more you practice and gain greater strength and balance in your leg muscles.

If you continue to struggle with this transfer, you must be assessed by a professional Occupational or Physical Therapist. They will advise on the correct method for getting up and out of your chair, plus assess whether your current chair is most suitable.

If you only want a lounge type chair and your chair is too low, then you certainly do not need an automatic seat lift. A high-backed chair higher chair is really all you need, otherwise you are removing a very useful exercise component out of your daily life; which will be needed other functional activities.

However, if you want a chair more working on a computer, then a comfortable ergonomic chair will be more suitable. Please make sure that the ergonomic chair is safe. If getting out of the chair is a concern, consider using one of my ergonomic chairs; as they all come with locking casters.

When I worked as a newly qualified Occupational Therapist in a hospital, one of the first activities we taught older patients, following an illness or surgery; was how to get out of the chair next to the bed. Following on from this activity was the toilet and bed transfer.

All of these are your fundamental functional activities of daily living. If you are not able to achieve any of these activities, then you will lose your ability to take care of your own personal functional performance for living independently.

So next time you look at any functional activity gadgets; remember what I write that productive movement is a therapeutic exercise for daily living. No gadget will replace the human body for use in functional activities of daily life. Learn to enjoy the movements yourself and then you will feel safe, independent and autonomous for as long as you are able to enjoy life; because everything in life always has a purpose.

If you need help or advice, ask your doctor to recommend community rehabilitation to visit you and resolve your functional mobility issues, being either an Occupational Therapist or a Physiotherapist. Both of these professions have overlapping areas of expertise that can help you in any functional mobility issue.

Please do not do not try to help yourself with gadgets, as there is always professional expertise available out there for you to use; which depending on your age is freely available.

Who then uses self-rising chairs you may ask? A good question and the answer is very few people, because they are only needed for specific medical conditions.

The first condition would be an individual, who had extensive damage in a hip or knee joint and then had the skeletal joint fixed in a rigid or straight position. It would make the transfer from a chair very difficult and often unsafe to manage. A self-rising chair would make it much easier to manage the task safely.

Also if you are badly affected by a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis, which affects both the upper and lower limb joints with pain, inflammation and weakness; a self-rising chair would help the individual reserve his/her strength, to perform other daily living activities that are needed in daily life.

If you are having difficulty getting in and out of a chair, then you should seek your doctor's advice as to whether you should be seen by an Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist. This is not a task you should be helping yourself to manage. Rehabilitation is the expertise that you require by the above professionals and should not be treated by yourself, or by sales staff in mobility stores.

What Do You Know About Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is now a booming business that has come a very long way in a very short period of time; in fact it's one of the fastest growing industries in the world. New physical therapists are entering the field every single day to treat the ever growing pool of people requiring treatment for all different kinds of injuries and ailments.

Injuries are a fact of life, not just for professional athletes but for regular people too. An elderly person who slips in the shower and breaks a hip, or the dock worker that injures his back lifting heavy box after heavy box or the middle aged woman that gets banged up in a hit and run collision all require the services of a properly trained physical therapist.

Where are Physical Therapists Employed?

The answer to this question could go on and on - Professional, amateur and college sports teams often employ their own physical therapists. Hospitals, free clinics and nursing homes all may also one or more physical therapists on staff.

Specialists in sports therapy, specific types of injuries or bariatric care may operate their own office and see several patients from varying backgrounds a week.

There are a multitude of different specialties and paths that are available within the wide field of physical therapy, and that means that there is an ever widening array of physical therapy equipment and physical therapy supplies available, so that every general and every specialized physical therapist can have everything that he or she needs to be able to properly treat the injury of what ever patient happens to walk through the door next.

Tools of the Trade

Sports therapists use probably the widest variety of physical therapy supplies to deal with everything that they may encounter on a daily basis. A sports therapist needs to be prepared to handle everything from the minor aches and pains that their athletes incur on the field every single day, but they also need to be prepared to deal with the rehabilitation of serious injuries that require surgeries and sometimes months of treatments to heal.

A large sports therapy treatment center will often almost appear to be over run with equipment. There could be a fully stocked hydrotherapy section with standing and seated whirlpools; mobility stations complete with parallel bars, standers and stair training equipment; and most will also have a full array of massage therapy equipment with massage table and chairs as well as a variety of creams, oils and other massage therapy supplies. Many specialized physical therapists today are also certified in one or more types of massage therapy as well.

Depending on the particular area of specialty, a physical therapy clinic may even have a variety of x-ray and imaging equipment available as well as a full array of chiropractic supplies and massage therapy equipment so they can be as full service as possible to their potential clients.

Regardless of the avenue of specialty a physical therapist chooses, he or she will surely need a wide variety of equipment to be able to perform the job to the best of his or her abilities.

Getting the best result possible from a physical therapy session, whether it's just to work on a strained muscle or rehabilitation from a major surgery, requires not only an adept therapist but also the best possible equipment for the method of treatment. That's why there are so many options available and why new and better ones are being developed and implemented every day. Physical therapy is a very involved and precise trade, one where perfection is an absolute must in order for the correct outcome to be achieved - so for as long as the trade of physical therapy continues to be a booming one, most likely so will the development of new pieces of physical therapy equipment.

Choosing Between Speech Pathology Or Occupational Therapy As a Career

Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy are rewarding and challenging careers that involve helping people with a limiting physical condition. Both careers focus on helping people overcome life challenges so they can adjust and live a productive life.

When considering a career in either speech pathology or occupational therapy, most people will make a choice based on their own personal goals and desires. Speech language pathology is the evaluation and treatment of speech and language disorders. Speech pathologists help individuals who have physical disabilities associated with speech such as difficulty in pronouncing words, hearing impairments, voice disorders, cognitive communication impairments, memory and problem solving disorders, and swallowing difficulties.  A speech therapist will work with people who have difficulty speaking, forming words or sounds, or who are recuperating from an injury or illness that has affected their ability to speak. Speech disorders can result from a number of conditions such as delayed development, a genetic disorder, an accident, or a medical condition such as a stroke. Although they are involved with helping adults, many speech pathologists tend to focus on children because early childhood is an important time for speech and language development. Those who want to specialize in helping children will often choose speech pathology as a career.

Many people choose speech pathology due to a number of specialized areas one can pursue. These areas can include disorders in fluency, neurogenic speech and language, language development, articulation, alternative communication, and swallowing. They employ a wide variety of assessment plans, diagnostic techniques, and treatment procedures. For those interested in research and development, speech language pathologists can specialize in seeking an understanding of the causes of a speech disorder and develop effective methods for evaluation and treatment of the condition.

One will often choose a career as an Occupational Therapist because they have a genuine interest in enabling people to participate in the activities of everyday life. Occupational therapy is a career that focuses on activities regarding daily living. Their job is to help people with impairments to adapt and function in everyday life activities.  They help individuals with developmental, emotional, physical, and mental disabilities. The goal is to improve functioning and wellness. Functioning tasks can include such actions as meal preparation, showering and dressing, managing money, and implementing their daily routine. They will also help them function better in the workplace. Areas focused on include memory, cognition and perception and motor skills.

Occupational therapists assist patients with achieving their set goals by improving their ability to participate in daily routines, modifying the environment to help them function better, and adapting an activity to better support their needs. They work with individuals, children, families, groups and the community to facilitate health and well-being by establishing or re-establishing their previous occupation. As well, Occupational Therapists are becoming increasingly more involved in tackling the impact of social and environmental factors that affect a person's ability to return to their previous occupation.  

Occupational Therapists focus helping patients return to their previous occupation, while speech pathology focuses on the specific area of communication disorders. Both professions are in great demand and provide a valuable service to the community and health profession. Whichever one you pick, you are sure to have a rewarding career.

Sensory Strategies in Autism Education

One of the challenges of educating students with autism spectrum disorders is accommodating their sensory needs. Balancing too little vs. too much input is sometimes beyond educators who do not have the experience of teaching children with autism. The need for this kind of specialized experience is why many parents prefer their children attend a specialized autism school in New York rather than public school.

Too Much Input

Children with autism can be overwhelmed by sensory input. They might be mesmerized by brightly colored objects, run from a room when it gets to loud, or refuse to eat foods with certain textures. An autism school classroom is set up to minimize the amount of extraneous inputs that will distract students.

Carpet and soft furniture absorb excess noise. If a loud noise is coming, teachers warn the students so they are not startled. Classrooms have fewer bright posters and use shades on the windows to regulate the amount of light. Quiet areas allow students to get away from things when they start to become overwhelmed. Teachers wear less perfume or cologne. These steps allow students to focus on the sensory input that is important without having to filter out irrelevant information.

Too Little Input

At the other end of the spectrum, students with autism may have muted senses so crave strong inputs. They may lick toys, particularly anything with a strong taste such as modeling clay. They constantly touch or even bite themselves. Fidgety students crave the inputs that come from movement.

Autism schools have a variety of strategies to provide inputs in a safe manner that won't interfere with other activities. Weighted vests or textured chairs help students who need strong tactile inputs. Rocking chairs allow a student to move while still paying attention to class. Brightly colored tape helps a student locate the boundaries of a desk or the carpet used for circle time. Through all of this, a structured schedule helps the child with autism function smoothly.

Finding Equilibrium

Balancing the needs of an individual student with the needs of the class is a critical element in creating a plan for educating an autistic child. If Child A needs strong auditory input but Child B is oversensitive to sound, the needs of both children must be met. A solution in this case could be to let Child A use an FM system and headphones so the teacher's voice is louder, being careful of course the student does not turn the volume so high it endangers hearing, while not interfering with Child B.

Accommodation of opposing needs one reason an autism school in New York is better suited for ASD students then public school. These institutions already know strategies that have worked in the past and don't have to experiment to find the right solution.

Educational Opportunities for Careers in Massage Therapy

The benefits of receiving a massage can affect various areas of a person's health. Students can learn the therapy by completing programs offered by natural healing colleges. Educational opportunities for careers in massage therapy treatments are available through formal education.

Massage programs provide students with the educational training needed to use soft to hard touch techniques to manipulate muscles. Training prepares students to enter several career areas where massage therapy is used to improve the health and mobility of a patient. Common career areas include:

• Private Practices


• Rehabilitation Clinics


• Spas

Students that want to complete higher education and become massage therapists have various programs available to them. Programs can be completed at the certificate and associate's degree level. Students that are planning on opening their own businesses after graduation should consider obtaining associate's degrees. The in depth curriculum not only covers massage therapy practices but also business administration principles. Education trains students to target injured or overworked muscles in order to successfully relieve stress and alleviate pain. Different techniques can be used that pertain to the client's physical condition. For example, the techniques used on an injured athlete will be different than that of a pregnant woman.

Students can find programs that explore multiple techniques to give them a wider knowledge base or they can enter specific programs that train them in one specific area. A basic certificate program needs to be completed before students can transition into advanced certificate programs that explore one area of the industry. Inside certificate programs students explore structural bodywork and how the theories of massage therapy apply to the different modalities. Students explore modalities or techniques that include cranial sacral therapy, trigger point massage, shiatsu, and myotherapy. Other course topics explore pathology, physiology, and anatomy. Students can take their knowledge and work in health clubs and chiropractic care offices.

Inside advanced certificate programs students will focus on a particular area. Students can complete training in aromatherapy massage, medical massage, and sports massage. Education trains students to implement massage techniques using a holistic approach. Coursework explores several areas such as body mechanics, spa practices, and massage therapeutics. Students that obtain a more specialized education are able to work inside rehabilitation clinics, sports facilities, and pre-natal care offices.

The knowledge of anatomy, technique, and business administration are highly emphasized inside associate's degree programs. Students will work through courses in sport medicine, pathology of disease, and medical terminology. After students gain a solid base in physiology and anatomy training will focus on various types of massage therapy to prepare students for professional careers. Relaxation and deep tissue massage are some styles students learn.

Students should research their states requirement on licensure. The National Certification Examination of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork ( http://www.ncbtmb.org/ ) is one organization that provides licensure for aspiring professionals. Students should research the different educational training opportunities available through massage therapy schools and colleges and begin studying how to enter the lucrative industry.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERIC OUTLINE and may or may not depict precise methods, courses and/or focuses related to ANY ONE specific school(s) that may or may not be advertised at PETAP.org.

Copyright 2010 - All rights reserved by PETAP.org.

Client Focus - Marketing Your Massage Practice From the Inside Out

Marketing theory tells us that businesses can compete in 3 ways - cost, product differentiation, and client focus.

Which of these do YOU think is the easiest to achieve? And which will be the most effective? Let's see what these 3 things mean to us as massage therapists:

Cost: if we decide to compete on price and cut our fees to make ourselves cheaper than the competition, will this have the desired effect of building a successful massage business? It may well bring us more clients initially, clients for whom price is an important factor in choosing to buy services/goods. However, this group of clients doesn't always stick around for the long-term, as they are continually on the look-out for the next bargain. Lowering fees could also, of course, put off clients who equate price with quality - they will perceive our bargain price as an indicator of an inferior quality treatment and service. It will also reduce the amount of money we take each month; how little can we afford to be earning and still feel that it is a fair exchange for our efforts? And is it sustainable in the long term? We will be doing the same amount of work for less money - which over time can often lead to us feeling resentful towards our clients, even though we set the prices in the first place!

Product differentiation: a fancy way of saying "What sets us apart from the massage therapist down the road so that clients will choose us rather than them?" Some clients love new, different, exotic therapies and extra special touches. It's definitely worth finding a way of making your own massage treatment, or way of practicing massage, unique to you, as this will make you memorable and special; clients will be more likely to return and refer others to you. But - make sure you are memorable for the right reasons! By trying to make yourself different just for the sake of being different, you run the risk of becoming "gimmicky", and this can trivialise what you do. In fact, it seems to me that by "just" doing a really great hands-on treatment, offering excellent customer service, and showing a real commitment to improving your knowledge and skills you will already be head and shoulders above the competition! What clients really want is a great massage from a reliable, professional practitioner - and sadly that seems to pretty hard to find according to many people that I speak to.

So by all means find your own unique style, but not to the detriment of your "core" services - excellent massage and great customer service.

Customer focus: in other words, customer service, or client care - putting the client at the centre of everything we do, and making sure we are providing what they want and not what we think they want.

There are many massage therapists out there all offering pretty much the same treatments as you, and all at a similar price. Making your levels of client care the absolute best is one of the simplest, quickest, and cheapest ways of getting clients, keeping them for many, many years, and getting numerous word of mouth referrals.

I say simplest - but simple doesn't necessarily mean easy; it may mean a radical change in your mindset if customer service hasn't really been on your radar up until now. But that's also the reason why it's relatively quick and cheap to implement - a change in attitude costs nothing more than taking a little time to give it some serious consideration. Figuring out ways to change your practices in order to offer clients their best massage experience ever is a sure-fire way to get and keep loyal clients; the foundation of every successful massage practice.