How To Find Someone Who Practices Reflexology

Reflexology would be the massage and manipulation of certain zones around the feet, hands and outer ears. It results in relaxation, and could even assist in healing with a assortment of other conditions.

Many people that are uncomfortable having a traditional style massage appear to enjoy reflexology for relaxation and pressure relief. And, a lot of other individuals use this therapy as a "complimentary modality" inside the practices of other much more really serious ailments; typically the care is coordinated with traditional medical practitioners.

Research has shown that reflexology is useful for treating: anxiety and depression, unmanageable discomfort, the side effects of chemotherapy, lowered blood pressure, along with the discomfort of birthing. Many people have even used reflexology for memory loss.

Reflexology is based on the premise that the body is divided into ten zones, and these zones are reflected in extremely particular regions from the hands and feet. These zones relate directly to organs within the body. The practitioner utilizes pressure, massage, kneading along other manipulations to impact actual physical adjustments within the body.

Most think that the physical changes are the outcome of releasing blocked power flow (qi) inside the body, which enables actual self-healing.

When you have decided to add reflexology for your care regimen, your initial step would be to not forget that reflexology is really a "complementary" therapy.

It's important to seek out and continue care with a traditional healthcare provider.

Now, ways to discover the appropriate reflexologist for you personally?

1st step, ask your buddies, family members, or healthcare specialists to get a referral!

Simply because these folks know you, they are able to usually tell when the provider could be an excellent fit for what you're in search of.

If they are unable to come up with any suggestions then look at the websites. You can also research the Reflexology Association of America. Their site features a complete listing, by state, of educated experts that uphold the integrity and ethics from the profession. You will also be able to locate state mandated requirements for reflexology practitioners.

Call the reflexologist that you are thinking about working with, and ask questions! Ask about their education and schooling.

Some reflexologists practice on clients with the lessons they learned at massage therapy school. While others have spent hours in classes and are certified in this modality.

Other reflexologists have taken a national board exam, and are recognized as experienced and competent by the American Reflexology Certification Board. Those who have chosen to expand upon their massage business are likely to understand the craft of reflexology which will provide a more enjoyable session. If you're interested in getting certified in reflexology just research the ARCB.

Ask the therapist what will take place during the session.

A lot of time this can provide you with an idea of what to expect as well as give you an initial impression of the therapist. If you are uncomfortable with the therapist or their explanations it's best to seek out other options. Ask how long the session will last. Find out if the therapist uses certain routines as some therapists wash their clients' feet. Some therapists will also work on the hands or outer ears. In the event you are uncomfortable with any of those elements, make that recognized, and see what the therapist will do to accommodate you.

You may also need to inquire if the therapist is completely and fully insured as this not only protect them but you as well. Even though there's no evidence of any unfavorable side effects of reflexology, it is always best to consult with a doctor before changing your health care regimen.

Most importantly, soon after your first reflexology session, analyze how you really feel.

Were you comfortable with the therapist and what they were doing?

Did you believe they were experienced in their profession or were they unprofessional?

Did you come out from the session relaxed and less stressed?

Did the therapist clarify what the objective in the sessions was before and after the treatment?

When the answer to any of those questions is "no", you may want to consider looking for another therapist.

When the answer is "yes", book one more session and continue on your path of relaxation and enhanced well being!

How Athletes Benefit From a Therapeutic Massage

Massages aren't only there for relaxation. A lot of athletes turn into massage as it gives them a lot of benefits. These benefits have a varied scope and here is an explanation on how these athletes are able to take advantage of massage therapy:

Improved flexibility. A lot of athletes turn to massage therapy to improve their performance. They might be able to benefit greatly if their flexibility is increased. Aside from doing prescribed trainings for their particular events, general massage can specifically make the muscles more flexible. When this is coupled with the right training techniques, an increase in flexibility can be noticed. Undergoing a massage means that your muscle fibers are stretched little by little. In the long run, this can be manifested as a significant change in your flexibility.

Better circulation. It is undeniable that a nice massage can bring about good circulation. When your body is stressed, certain parts of it might not receive the blood supply that it should be receiving. This can result to a reduction in nutrition of the cells that make up that particular part of the body. Oxygenation of these cells is brought to a normal or optimal level promising good results for the person. After some time, more pressing physical problems might even occur. This will also help an athlete increase his or her performance levels.

Alleviation of pain. Pain as a result of injury among athletes can range from something minor to something serious. It might not be advisable to start massage while pain is still present. However, depending on the condition, massage can be the only technique that will help alleviate the pain that the person is experiencing.

When a person is pain-free, he or she will be able to complete the tasks assigned at the soonest possible time and at the best possible level of performance. When in training, an athlete will be able to give it his best shot if he is not experiencing any painful stimuli from any part of his body.

Recovery from injury. Massages may also help during recovery from injuries. A massage may help hasten recovery. The previous performance and functioning of a body part may be resumed if proper measures have been applied.

Prevention of injury. If the optimal performance of the body is preserved, injuries can be effectively avoided. The muscles can develop the least possible amount of injury even if accidents have happened. This can be very beneficial to athletes as getting serious injuries can require weeks to months of recovery and stoppage of training.

Better sleep. If you are getting regular massages, you can establish good sleeping patterns as you are relaxed after every session. The aches that you were experiencing might be reduced or removed. Your breathing might also be more relaxed. Furthermore, the tension in your muscles have been lessened.

Increased focus. As a massage can bring about good circulation, your cognitive functioning might be affected. You can develop your focus while you are performing in your sporting event. You may be able to make the right decisions and avoid the wrong ones.

Health Benefits of Cold Stone Massage

Cold stone massage offer many benefits. This is basically the reason why it has grown rapidly in terms of popularity. This type of treatment offers quiet a number of benefits which you will surely enjoy as long as you do it regularly.

Let's take a look at some of the many health benefits of cold stone massage:

• The Cascade Influence - This is the main benefit that you will get once you decide to have a stone massage. The cascade influence results in a very significant change to your body's chemical content. This will lead to physiological changes in the body as well. In a lot of cases, this type of massage offer big improvements to patients who are dealing with asthma, burns, high blood pressure, and arthritis.

• Promotion of Health - When you get stone massages regularly, you are actually promoting great health and you will be able to make sure that both your mind and body are healthy. Despite the fact that getting these massages will require you to spend money, you will realize that by keeping your body in shape, you are actually getting a very good investment out of it. This will prevent you from getting or worrying about health problems that could end up costing you more. That is why it is essential to keep in mind that having the time to get these massages done will give you the assurance of keeping your good health.

• Healing for your Brain and Body - It is a known fact that stone massages can also bring about immense healing for your brain and body. This is a huge benefit on your part since this can help in getting rid of all the pains that you feel on your lower back. This can also help in treating a low immune system, improving your skin tone, dealing with muscle problems, getting rid of anxiety, depression and migraines. This can even assist in curing different types of tissue damage.

• Provide Better Focus - When you have stone massage done, you will benefit from it by getting better focus. This is because stone massage therapy helps in affecting the mind and can improve the way you focus and think. Since your body and your mind are linked together, getting your body shaped up and tuned, your mind will follow it as well.

Knowing the benefits of cold stone massage will help us appreciate this kind of massage even more. We have to keep in mind though that for us to get maximum benefit from these massages; we also have to do our part.

• While on therapy, focus your mind on areas of discomfort. Communicate with your therapist so that he or she will have an idea as to where are the areas that need the therapy the most.

• Make sure that you meditate or sleep right after your therapy. This is because the massage will certainly increase the lymph circulation of your body. So for you to get the maximum benefit, plan a nap after the treatment.

• It is a good idea to find a therapist that you like. Getting the same therapist during all of your visits will help you become more accustomed and you will feel more comfortable every session.

Therapeutic Models for Pediatric Physical Therapy

When a child has a physical impairment, he/she often benefits from working with a skilled physical therapist in order to work towards attaining the skills that he/she lacks. Physical therapy can be practiced either in a medical clinic, in the child's home, or within the school system, and each relates to a different "model" of practice, with different goals and objectives.

The medical model of practice is what is typically thought of when one thinks of physical therapy. It can include going to an outpatient clinic where an array of different equipment can be utilized, including treadmills, weights, swings, ball pits, etc. The medical model can also be practiced in a child's home, if the child is homebound due to medical issues. The goals must be measurable and attainable, and therapists typically have to show progress towards these goals in order to be reimbursed by insurance companies. Often times, children with lifelong physical disabilities will have to take a break from therapy if they are not making progress towards the goals that have been established. This is known as an "episode of care", meaning that a child is not necessarily receiving services continually throughout his/her life.

Alternatively, by law, students are able to receive physical therapy services through their school system. These services would fall under the educational model of practice, and are part of a child's Individualized Educational Plan (IEP). This means that the physical therapist is a part of the special education team, which includes the student and the parents, that helps the student function within his or her "least restrictive environment", which is typically the school setting for school age children. Goals in the educational model will focus more on routines in the school day, adaptations for the classroom, and equipment needs. Services can be direct (working one on one with the student), which might resemble the medical model. However, services can also be indirect, integrated, or consultative, meaning that the therapist is working mainly with teachers, staff, and/or parents, providing ideas and training for how to manage the student's physical impairments so that he or she is still able to be functional in the classroom setting.

Before children are school aged, they can qualify for Early Intervention services. This is typically from birth through the age of three. Each state has different qualification standards, but typically a medical diagnosis that indicates need or low scores on a standardized test can qualify a child. Early Intervention services can be provided by the school district or the state, and the services are free to the family. Early Intervention services follow an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), which is similar to an IEP in that it involves a whole team approach. The difference is that an IFSP is family focused and the least restrictive environment is typically in the child's home. Education and training of the parents and family is the main focus.

Careers in Herbal Medicine

Careers in herbal medicine are on the rise as a result of the increased demand for alternative healing methods to complement and sometimes even replace the Western medicinal techniques of prescription drugs and surgeries. More and more people are being drawn to herbal medicine, and talented individuals are stepping up to the plate in the United States and around the world to provide these healing services. Embarking on this career path will require dedication, hard work, education and training, but there are many rewards if you're ready for the challenge. ????

There are many careers in herbal medicine to choose from including Ayurvedic practitioners, Chinese medicine practitioners, herbalists, homeopathic practitioners, natural healing practitioners, naturopaths and other iridology-related fields. The first step toward any of these careers is getting the proper education from a reputable school. Coursework might include subjects such as Ayurvedic medicine, botanical medicine, cell chemistry, Chinese medicine, herbal pharmacy, phytochemistry and plant compounds. This will depend greatly on the specific career you wish to enter and the school you attend, but these are some of the more common subjects that herbal medicine students study.

Some herbal medicine careers require certification or credentialing and others don't, but it's always a good idea to have some proof of the level of experience you have attained and the education you have received for your chosen field. It is important to be sure you are attending a reputable school for herbal medicine that will teach you everything you need to know to be respected by peers and/or potential clients. Look into several schools, and review their costs, curriculum and certificate, degree and diploma options. You may also be required to have a certain level of education before even attending such schools, such as a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. You may want to seek out possible options to participate in an internship so that you can gain experience and first-hand on-the-job knowledge.

If you're considering getting into a career in herbal medicine, it's a good idea to start gathering information as soon as possible, so you can decide if this type of job is right for you. Then you can begin your educational path and be well on your way to a rewarding new profession.?

Why the Fuss Over Interferential Therapy and What is it All About?

What is interferential therapy?

Interferential therapy originated in Germany and was administered by an interferential physiotherapist originally in a physiotherapy department. In the U.S. it was about 1960 before there were interferential physical therapists using the new modality.

What does it involve?

Interferential therapy basically involved putting 4 electrodes on the outer edges of where a patient was feeling pain. The interferential current therapy consisted of one "channel -2 electrodes" going off and on 4,000 times per second ( referred to as PPS/Frequency/Rate/Pulses per Second). The other channel went off and on 4,001 to 4,150 PPS. The interferential therapy treatment was the crossing of the currents inside the patient which stopped the pain and also provided carryover pain relief following the treatment that lasted for some time period. In physical therapy journals there were interferential articles describing how the treatment worked and why interferential was most beneficial for chronic pain patients who were unable to find pain relief.

Often the chronic pain patient was referred to a Physical Therapist ( Physiotherapist ) by a physician for an "Evaluate and Treat" referral. The physicians were unaware of what the physical therapists were doing but they found that in many situations the physical therapist was able to provide pain relief when other methods had failed. The physical therapist often used a combination of hot cold interferential which was nothing more than applying warm moist heat in conjunction with interferential for immediate relief and to extend the carryover pain relief period. If the patient presented with an acute injury, less than 48 hours, then the physical therapist used cold interferential therapy employing ice to lessen the inflammation of recently injured tissues.

The reason for the warm moist heat, in conjunction with interferential treatments, was the heat attracted blood, a conductor of electricity, and enhanced the ability of the interferential current to penetrate into the body tissues and target the sensory nerves. When there is more heat in an area the body rushes blood to dissipate the heat. This creates a more electrical conductive environment internally and externally the moisture from the heating pad reduces the resistance of the skin for greater penetration. The physical therapist was using the natural phenomena to aid in overcoming the resistance of the skin.

In theory the crossing of the two currents from the two independent channels would produce a "new" current that was the sum of the two crossing currents. That was theory which later had to be modified since the body and the differing tissues had different abilities to store electrons before "filling up" and there was not a consistency of current distribution. However the science was correct even though the imagery was not. This "new current" was called a "vector current" and it moved around the painful areas. What was later revealed was the stimulation did indeed occur for the sensory nerves due to the crossing of the currents. The sensation was very relaxing and the effects of interferential currents were successful for pain relief.

Interferential therapy later moved to other medical disciplines and become an effective treatment for:

1. Urinary and Fecal Incontinency

2. Osteoarthritis

3. Muscle Reeducation

4. Acute Edema

5. Muscle spasm and spasticity

6. Circulatory stimulation

7. Abdominal Organ stimulation

8. Acceleration of general healing.

Unfortunately during the time interferential was being used there was little research being done on the how and whys other than one book published in 1984 by Brenda Savage, physiotherapist, called "Interferential Therapy".

In 1987 Dr. Giovanni De Domenico came out with the literal "encyclopedia of interferential current therapy" called, "New Dimensions In Interferential therapy. A Theoretical & Clinical Guide".

Over the years study after interferential study has confirmed what Brenda Savage and Giovanni De Domenico pointed out decades earlier. Interferential therapy currents could produce outstanding clinical results for patients when other treatments had failed.

Interferential therapy contraindications are few,

1. Don't apply electrodes near heart if patient has a demand cardiac pacemaker

2. Don't apply electrodes over neck

3. Don't use interferential therapy on pregnant women,

Unlike tens units, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulators, prior to January 2009 interferential units were not portable so any contraindication of sleepiness due to muscle relaxation was not hazardous since the patient had to be in a clinic or hospital to receive an interferential treatment. It was not unusual for a patient to fall asleep during an interferential treatment and have to be awakened upon completion by the clinician.

Today with the advent of at home, self treat, with a portable device the additional warning is to not operate an automobile or operate machinery when undergoing interferential treatment. Today, besides the physical therapy interferential office, the chiropractic clinic often uses interferential therapy as a complementary therapy to spinal manipulation and the Doctor of Chiropractic has become well versed in using interferential for pain relief.

The biggest problem with interferential therapy historically has been one had to get an appointment and go to a clinic for treatment. Today that is not the case and the ability to self treat has turned the tide on preventing pain, rather than treating pain.

Probably the principal advantage to the patient is today with self treatment interferential options, the residual or carryover pain relief seems to be extending from self treatment to self treatment and new parameters of health care are emerging due to the new portable modality..

In conclusion, even though the exact mechanisms of why interferential therapy worked were not known, the benefits were solid and the use of interferential currents for pain and other health issues has prospered. Interferential currents have helped many patients in clinics and now can help outside the clinic in the home setting. New knowledge is emerging as the results of preventing pain with self treatment is changing the understanding of interferential current therapy.

Sports Massage Can Boost Performance and Aid in Injury Recovery

Whether you're an elite athlete or a weekend gym-goer, you can benefit from sports massage. Contact a massage therapist to discuss your massage needs and options.

You're playing like you've never played before. Running faster. Jumping higher. Diving deeper. But are you taking care of your body? Do you know if you're at risk for an injury? Or are you already injured, and playing through the pain? Whether you're an elite athlete or enjoy sports recreationally, consider adding sports massage to your wellness routine. A massage therapist can pinpoint your body's tight and weak areas and bring you some much-needed relaxation and healing. Still not convinced that massage is right for you? Weigh the benefits so you can make an educated decision.

Muscle Maintenance

By manipulating the tissues and muscles you use the most, a massage therapist can decrease stiffness and soreness so that you don't have to work it out on the court or on the field. Sports massage can increase your flexibility and range of motion, which can make you less prone to injury. Massage can also reduce muscle fatigue and help muscles heal from the stresses of vigorous activity. Tired muscles may be more prone to injury than muscles that have been allowed to recover from intense work. What's the moral of the story? Regular sports massage can decrease recovery time between workouts while increasing the rate at which your body can improve at your chosen sport.

Injury Recovery

If you're already injured, you can add sports massage therapy to your healing regimen. Just make sure you've got your doctor's approval, and that your massage therapist understands your injury and any resulting range-of-motion limitations. Massage may not be appropriate immediately after an injury, but it can be vital in helping you regain peak performance once the acute phase has passed. Massage increases blood flow to the manipulated area, which can help strained muscles heal. Sports massage can also help you regain lost range of motion gently and incrementally-unlike forcing your body to do what it once could, which can result in injury recurrence or even worsening.

Body Awareness

Many athletes fail to take into account the psychological benefits of sports massage. The sense of calm and well-being imparted during a massage can help you focus and get into the mind-set to compete. Beyond that, regular massage can lead to increased body awareness. A trained massage therapist can point out muscle weaknesses and imbalances that you may not even realize exist-and once you're aware of these issues, you can take steps to correct them through strength training, stretching, or targeted massage. Understanding your body, including how it works best, any bad habits you fall into, and when to seek help with an issue, will only make you a stronger competitor.

A variety of massage therapy techniques exist, and not everyone will benefit from the same massage tactics. Investigate Swedish massage, shiatsu, deep-tissue massage, and other options to find what's right for your body. Look for a massage therapist who understands both the requirements of your sport and the intricacies of anatomy. Alongside a healthy diet and a proper training regimen, sports massage can decrease pain, boost your performance, and lengthen your athletic peak.

Mechanical or Human Physical Therapy - Which is Better?

Physical therapy helps sufferers of a variety of ailments to maintain or improve functionality of the body. Physical therapists work to prevent, treat, and rehabilitate patients with physical problems and reduced mobility. There are a large number of physical therapy treatments out there, and the right one for you depends on your specific condition. Physical therapists treat patients for anything from headaches and back pain to spina bifida and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-- as well as helping many other patients to recover as much mobility as possible after an accident or other event.

There's been a lot of talk lately in the health care community about physical therapy robots. Because of this, you may be wondering which is better, robotic (mechanical) physical therapy or physical therapy done by human therapists. The answer is neither. A human therapist is always necessary when embarking on a long term physical therapy aide program, no matter your condition. However, studies done with hundred of stroke victims show that robotic therapy definitely has a place in the future of physical therapy-- a very important place.

Robotic Therapy

Robotic Physical therapy is a brand new field. Discoveries and inventions have been made in places like MIT that have had some very promising results on stroke victims.

Victims of a stroke are generally weeks, months, even years in physical therapy. Even though many attempts are made to return mobility to them, most stroke victims make no real visible improvements in mobility. Robotic therapists, however, are changing that. The advantage robotic therapy has over human therapy is constancy. It's very difficult for a human therapist to take the time necessary to make true strides in improving a patient's mobility. Robots, however, never tire, slow, or change pace-- of course, the repetitive motions needed in order to properly work the affected parts of body of the stroke victim don't affect a machine. In addition, robotic therapists generally have bio-feedback mechanisms. These mechanisms help to increase improvement in the affected parts of the body.

Some robotic therapists are even designed to act as both coach and therapist, using jokes, humor, and encouragement to help patients get though the long and tiring process of physical therapy.

Human Therapy

While strides are being made in the field of robotic therapy, and robotic therapists will at some point be available to help with many conditions, human therapists are and will always be necessary. For most conditions, a human therapist is your only option. However, even if using robotic therapy aide, you must have a human therapist in order to diagnose your movement problems and develop a long-term strategy for treating them. It's also necessary to visit human therapists to evaluate progress and make further plans for both human and robotic therapy.

So You Want to Be a Cowboy?

So you want to be a cowboy. If you're not born and raised on a ranch, weaned on horses and cattle, exactly how do you go about achieving that all-American dream? I always wanted to be a cowgirl but by some strange accident I was born in Philly and lived the better part of my adult life in Jersey. Not exactly the Wild West, but I did it- I found a job in Colorado wrangling horses. I would never call myself a real 'cowgirl' because at the age of 49 I'll never get there. And I too much respect what the real cowboys and girls do. But I wrangle horses, can saddle and care for them, and I can teach other folks the basics. Not bad for a girl from Philly.

No matter where you live, the first step in becoming a cowboy (forget the gender thing for a minute if you can) is to get familiar with horses. Take lessons if you can afford it. If not, volunteer to clean stalls at any barn anywhere. Within driving distance of any major city you'll find stables of some kind. I used to volunteer at the Atlantic Riding School for the Handicapped. This organization used horses as physical therapy for disabled children and adults. There were specially trained instructors but they always needed help cleaning stalls, saddling horses, and walking beside the riders for safety. Do whatever you can to start getting a real comfort level with horses.

Next, start your mind-training. Read, read, read about the cowboy lifestyle, about life in the West, about a "day in the life" of a cowboy. You'll find most "real" cowboys are born and raised in the West, and were on horses before they could walk. You can't really aspire to this, but you can absolutely become a ranch hand, a wrangler, and a dude horse trainer. "Dude" in the West refers to any city slicker or any non-ranch or horse person. In Jersey, 'dude' was a surfer term of endearment. Not so much out West. This is what you can learn by reading about the cowboy culture.

A "wrangler" is a person - not always a cowboy - who has some basic competence around horses. He can groom, saddle, and care for them; he understands tack (horse equipment, saddles, blankets, bridles etc.) and is committed to safety on a horse and when teaching others. Cowboys do wrangle, but they do a whole lot more than that. They are usually responsible for an entire herd on a ranch (and you can't imagine the trouble horses can create) and they do tons of general maintenance involving tractors, fences, hay, and any structure on a ranch. It's a hard life.

Start to explore areas of the country where you can work outside with horses. Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana do the lion's share of dude ranching so these are a natural fit for cowboys-in-training. But anywhere you live in this country, there's probably green space somewhere, with someone working horses. Do you research and find it. If you can afford to travel, go West young man or woman (or in my case, middle-age woman). Take a horse pack trip - they're not that expensive - and get familiar with the process of horse-related travel. This is where I met the folks I work with now. I took a five day pack trip into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. When I came down from the mountain, life would never be the same.

If you are young, you're probably not yet saddled (sorry) with debt and family responsibilities. Even with little experience you can get a job on a ranch as a hand or a beginner wrangler. You have to be eager, and willing to work hard. There are a few places where you can actually attend a Wrangler School. These courses are enormously beneficial and surely look good on a wrangler resume.

If you really want to be a part of the cowboy or wrangler culture you have to be willing to work very long hard hours, outdoors, in any weather. Summers in the dude ranch industry are incredibly busy - 16 hour days, and many nights spent sleeping under the stars (not a bad perk, huh?) There are a few great websites for outdoor jobs, like http://www.coolworks.com and http://www.ranchweb.com You won't believe what's available. You can also do a Google search for dude ranches in Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana. You may need to start out as a cook one summer, and work your way up to wrangling.

I was a high school teacher and (gulp) a litigation attorney for 16 years before my dream of being a wrangler came to fruition. If this nearly-50 year old Jersey girl can ride the range for a living surely you can too. Good luck, and come see me at the ranch.

Why Choose A Couple's Massage

Those who want to spend a relaxing time with their spouse or significant other should consider getting a couple's massage. There are a number of places that offer this type of massage and most of these places have a relaxing, pleasant ambiance that one is sure to enjoy. Following are some reasons why getting a massage of this nature can be an excellent idea.

A couple's massage allows two people to spend time together in a quiet, relaxing and intimate setting. A couple with one or more children is sure to appreciate the chance to unwind and talk in a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Even childless couples will find that a couple's massage is a great way to bond together, as it is nearly impossible to be upset or have an argument while getting a good massage. A couple's massage can even be a great date idea for those who enjoy activities besides the traditional meal at a restaurant and/or movie out.

Most people enjoy getting a nice massage, and there is no point in one person going in and then waiting outside while the second person gets his or her massage. Having the massage together saves time and allows a couple or two good friends to share the experience together. If a person has never had a professional massage before, chances are he or she will feel more comfortable having a massage with a spouse or friend instead of on his or her own.

It should also be noted that couple's massages are not necessarily romantic in nature, although they can be. Close friends who enjoy each other's company may appreciate getting a massage together and spending the time talking. A person who has gotten a massage before and knows a good place to go may want to introduce his or her friends to this relaxing activity, as many people have not had the opportunity to benefit from massage therapy and experience the relaxation and freedom from stress that it can bring.

In today's fast paced world, it is hard to find opportunities to relax and spend time with someone. Those who want to spend time with a spouse or close friend in a relaxed setting should consider a couple's massage. There are a number of places that offer this type of massage; in fact, these places usually have different styles of massage that a couple can choose from. While a couple who has never had a joint massage may feel uncomfortable at first, most people have found that this type of massage is not only very relaxing but also quite enjoyable, as the shared experience means that one is able to share the relaxation with someone close to him or her.

How Massage Therapy Counters Obesity Without Skipping Meals

A study conducted by Harvard University predicts an alarming rate of obese people in the next 40 to 50 years. Today, obesity is labeled as an "epidemic" of global proportions that will ultimately claim many lives. Obesity is the forerunner of heart diseases, cancers and degenerative ailments.

Death on your Plate

As fast-food chains, ready-to-go meals and everything instant continue to dominate today's dining tables, it is small wonder why internet searches for "weight loss programs" have reached millions of results and counting! Junk foods and lack of regular exercise are, by far, the major culprits to why most people become obese.

Weight loss pills and crash diets, meditative exercises, aerobics, kickboxing and a plethora of other weight loss strategies may help reduce weight, but there is one approach to weight loss that is creating a ripple-effect on the internet: it's that soothing and relaxing knead on the body by a licensed massage therapist.

How Massage Therapy Counteracts Excess Fat

Who would have thought that massage can actually burn fat? Primarily referred to as an instantaneous pain reliever and effective muscle relaxant, it seems there is more to massage therapy that meets the knuckles on both hands.

Undoubtedly, after a good massage, you feel refreshed. But there is something more to cheer about after a good knead on the muscles of your shoulders and back.

During a good massage, fat capsules that are lodged inside the folds of your muscles due to lack of exercise, slower metabolism and excessive consumption of junk foods are broken down and re-absorbed by the body for proper waste elimination. This is how you lose weight.

Now you have another reason to include massage therapy in your monthly to-do list. Losing weight by skipping meals or spending hours on a treadmill can be a real challenge, as these options require your strong resolve to deny yourself of things you want (read: rolls of burrito and more hours of sleep) while massage therapy is a wellness experience that you can thoroughly enjoy for optimum relaxation and good health - and with your curves in all the right places.

Online Associate's Degree in Occupational Therapy

What is Occupational Therapy?

The role of occupational therapists is to help those people with disabilities - physical, mental, or emotional to regain their mobility so as to carry out their day to day activities with ease. They work on enhancing their productivity, both at home and work by increasing the strength of their muscles and flexibility in physical movements. However occupational therapy is different from physical therapy in its aims. While physical therapy is generally focused on enhancing muscle movements, occupational therapy aims at dealing with the physical, physiological and to an extent their psychological aspects of the patient. In that sense it is more holistic in its approach and treatment.

Occupational therapists and assistants instruct and back patients as they work on learning fundamental skills required in daily life. This requires the therapists to make use a large variety of, equipment and tools which will assist the patients in becoming increasingly independent. It is the occupational therapist who is in charge of carving out a plan of treatment for every patient. The job of an occupational therapist can be extremely taxing. However the job satisfaction is even high as it is rewarding to see the improvement in the patient's abilities and independence.

Online Associate's Degree
It is necessary that the occupational therapists and their assistants be licensed. Those who intend to be occupational therapist assistants require an associate's degree from an accredited school offering an occupational therapy program. An amalgamation of theoretical studies and practice, occupational degree is most definitely a valuable degree if one intends to build a career in the field of health care. It is one of the most sought after occupations as occupational therapists are hired by not only hospitals and health care centres but also other institutions like special schools, foster care homes, and even those in sports to an extent. Given the wide job opportunities, you may take a first step towards their career by start with an online associate's degree.

Coursework
Apart from general education, in subjects like English and mathematics, the core of the curriculum is constituted by courses specific to occupational therapy like research methodology, occupational therapy management, and theoretical basis of this field.

Fieldwork and internships form an integral part of the learning process and to graduate from the degree program. Thus students are expected to complete an internship or a certain amount of fieldwork. To qualify for the associate program, you must hold a high school diploma.

An associate degree can be completed in a period of two years. Graduates also must be prepared to appear for the national exam which is required for licensure.

The Attributes of Online Courses
Online education is one of the most convenient formats to graduate in occupational therapy. It offers flexibility in schedules, facilitating interaction with co-students and instructors. Students not only save up on the travelling expense and time, but also save up on the course fees. Now that it is possible to complete an occupational therapy degree online, it makes it easier and convenient for students to pursue their careers within the area of healthcare. A number of institutions offer an occupational therapy degree program online. Universities like Keiser University, Brown Mackie College, Wallace State Community College, Herzing University, and New England Institute of Technology offer an online associate's degree in occupational therapy.

You may request more information on occupational therapy now.

Best Type of Massage Therapy to Stress Reduction

Receiving a massage therapy is more than just pampering yourself. It is based on the principle that when the body is calm and relaxed, emotional and mental anxiety is reduced.

The use of human touch to rid the body of physical and emotional stress has been around for ages. In the modern world, we see massage therapy techniques being used that can be traced back to India, China, Japan, and Egypt to name a few.

A massage is good for the tensed and stressed individual because it improves blood flow thus increasing the amount of fresh oxygen that flows to the tissues. Further, it strengthens the immune system making the body less prone to diseases, relaxes and tones the muscles, and increases joint flexibility.

For simple enough situations such as headache, sinus, and shoulder relief, or if you're on a budget, one doesn't have to visit a spa as there are massage techniques that a person can do to himself. For instructions, visit various video streaming sites which have tutorials for doing self-massage.

Although self-massage is generally okay for relieving stress, receiving a massage from a certified therapist is extremely relaxing because you get more coverage. For removing tension, relaxation, and getting rid of stress from the body, the most recommended massage modalities or types are Shiatsu, Swedish, and Hot Stone Massage.

Deep Tissue Massage and Sports Massage are not recommended because their aggressive quality makes them less effective for stress relief. With these types of massage therapy, many clients have reported being sore for days which is not really comforting.

Shiatsu or acupressure uses the Chinese meridian system to locate pressure points on the body. These pressure points are massaged with the thumbs, fingers, and palms through tapping, rubbing, and applying pressure to places where there is a blockage of chi or energy.

The Swedish massage is a classic massage that uses a variety of motions to the muscles and bones: percussion, shaking, long strokes, vibration, kneading, and friction to apply pressure to the muscles. This not only gives an overall sense of relaxation but also works at enhancing the blood circulation, lessening the time needed for muscles to recover during injuries, stretching of tendons, stimulation of the skin and lowers blood pressure thereby giving the client an improves sense of health inside out.

In a Hot Stone Massage therapy, special stones are heated and placed on specific areas of a client's body to remove the tension from the deeper muscles that a therapists fingers cannot reach. Depending on the therapist, there may be times when cool stones are alternately used with the hot stones.

For the therapist to be able to make the necessary skin to skin contact needed in any modality of massage, the client is required to disrobe and wear only minimal clothing. Clients should not worry about their modesty since a sheet will always be provided to cover areas the therapist is not currently working on.

The number of physicians who extol the benefits of massage therapy have grown through the years. This is not only because massage has been around for ages, but because the benefits are clearly seen and felt.

Physical Therapy Schools - How to Make the Right Choice

There are many physical therapy schools from which one can choose from when pursuing the required education to become a physical therapist.

People working in this field assist individuals who are experiencing movement restriction due to an illness or injury. Job openings are expected to increase by as much as 30 percent by the year 2018, and according to the United States Bureau of Labor statistics, this may be a modest estimate. For this reason, those who anticipate pursuing this career path should give serious thought to their education.

Physical Therapy Schools

Education Requirements
It is necessary that one becomes specially trained, if they want to work in this profession. A Master's degree is the minimum education level required of those who plan to become physical therapists. However, many students choose to pursue a doctor of physical therapy degree, although this decision is usually dependent on several factors such as tuition costs and how quickly the individual wishes to become employed.

Research
One of the best actions prospective students can take is to start his or her research early. For instance, when one is taking courses during his or her first year of college, it is wise to devote some time to researching the various physical therapy schools available and their required prerequisites. This is because such requirements vary from school to school, making it essential to obtain detailed information in advance.

Grade Point Average
It is also imperative that one maintain a high grade point average during college. Many physical therapy schools require a 3.0 minimum grade point average before they will consider a student for admission. It is also wise to maintain a high grade point average if one will be seeking grants to help pay for his or her college education, as most grants of this type have specific grade point average requirements.

Selecting a School
There is a vast array of learning institutions from which one can choose from when pursuing a career as a physical therapist. However, one should only consider schools that are accredited by the American Physical Therapy (APTA) Association or a similar institution. Those who do not acquire their education from an accredited school will not qualify to take the national licensing exam. Without a license, finding work will be difficult, if not impossible.

The APTA publishes a bi-annual list of the top ten physical therapy schools in the country. These schools are ranked by experts, with specific areas such as program quality and student to instructor ratio being taken into account.

The University of California, the University of Pittsburgh, and Washington University in St. Louis currently rank in first, second and third place, respectively. However, there are many other physical therapy schools to choose from, and therefore, one should not give up his or her dream of becoming a physical therapist if a top ranking school is out of reach, either geographically or financially. Regardless of the school one chooses, pursuing an education in the field of physical therapy is a worthwhile endeavour.

Tips to Find a Massage Therapist Job

Massage therapy is known as a form of treatment where the practitioner uses touch and also various movements for manipulating the muscles in the body of the patient. The massage therapists should complete the training program and obtain the license before they are allowed to work legally. Moreover, the practitioners can choose for working in any one of the wide variety of settings. These are ranged from the medical offices to the beauty spas. At this time, this article is going to give you several tips to find a massage therapist job. Just take a look at the tips below.

The first thing that you have to do is to check for the job postings. Actually, you can simply check the career boards online. Besides, you also need to search the classifieds section of the local papers.

The second thing is to meet with the local chiropractors. The chiropractors frequently need massage therapist for providing their patients with prescribed remedies. If you find that there is an opening for the massage therapist, you may be placed on the payroll of the doctor or you may be asked for working independently. Moreover, if you prefer to work independently, you can set your own fees. However, you should pay for the office spice and also provide your own supplies and equipment.

The third thing is to apply at the beauty spa. There are many massage therapists who start their careers by working at spa. You can prefer to become a member of the staff or just work independently. Typically, the wages at the paid position are low, although few employers pay with competitive rates.

Lastly, you need to consider about self-employment. There are large numbers of graduates prefer working by themselves. You will need to rent commercial location for your work. Besides, you will also need to determine the start-up costs to start this business.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Massage Therapy - Can Massage Help Carpal Tunnel Pain?

If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, there is no doubt in my mind that you would find therapeutic massage to be a great help. 

Of course, being a long-time massage therapist, I am highly biased about the value of massage.  I fully believe in the benefits, and have seen so many people heal from so many painful conditions.

So what does massage do for carpal tunnel pain?

Massage warms your muscles.  It removes restrictions in the muscles and soft tissues.  It relaxes tight, sore muscles and helps normalize them.

You developed carpal tunnel syndrome because some of your muscles were being used more than others.  Some muscles became "too tight" and others were allowed to be a bit too stretched, or lengthened.  When this occurs, muscles become unhappy.

Your muscles are telling you about their stress and strain by causing carpal tunnel pain for you.  The muscles that are involved in your carpal tunnel syndrome (a syndrome is a collection of symptoms) might be in your neck, your shoulder, your upper and lower arm, between your ribs and shoulder blade, or in and around your wrist and hand.

Here's a little story.  A couple of months ago, I fell and dislocated my elbow and caused a lot of soft tissue pain and dysfunction from hand to shoulder.  My symptoms were very much like carpal tunnel syndrome.  It was a similar injury that was caused instantly.  I couldn't even type and my fingers didn't "work."

What did I do?

I did the things that felt most natural to me.  I waited a few days for the most intense discomfort to settle down, because sometimes muscles need a break. 

I paid attention to what my muscles were doing, especially if it was something I did NOT want them to do.  For instance, I noticed that my arm felt a little better if I held it with my elbow bent into a right angle.  But, I also noticed that my arm felt like it was going to "freeze" in that position.  Since it's not a good thing for muscles to shorten and tighten, I didn't want that to happen.

I made a conscious effort to hold and sleep with my arm in a more open position, so the muscles would be lengthened rather than getting short and tight.

I used some ice for the first few days and used some heat later.  Ice and heat are both good natural therapies when used at the appropriate times for the right conditions.

And, I did a lot of self-massage and I had two really deep massages to help rehabilitate my arm muscles.  These massages treated all of the muscles from my back and neck to my hand.

Was the massage uncomfortable?

Well, whenever muscles are "tight" and kind of stuck, massage can cause some discomfort.  This is because the muscles aren't used to being pushed and pressed into.  And, it's unavoidable.  If the massage pressure is too light, it doesn't cause enough change to take place in the muscles that are causing your carpal tunnel syndrome.

A really light massage might feel pleasant, but it may not give you any relief at all.  And if you have decided to seek professional therapeutic massage to help get rid of your carpal tunnel symptoms, you want benefit.  A deeper massage will give you more benefit.

How Massage Helps in Improving Body Building Performance

If you are an athlete or a body builder, a massage chair can be quite handy for you to have. Since body building causes strain on your body, a relaxing massage is quite a relief. Massage has been known to help improve a body builder's performance. Body builders and athletes try to avoid getting an injury. Massage therapy can help build better muscle mass and help prevent injuries.

The following are benefits of massage therapy to a body builder:

1. Improves range of motion of joints and extremities - When you're working out, your muscles will undergo constant stretching and contracting. Though this can help increase muscle mass and develop its shape, it also tightens the muscles and reduces its elasticity. Also, this places your muscles in constant wear and tear that can create scar tissues. This is quite normal for a body builder. However, tight muscles can increase the chances of injury to occur and will also cause muscle pain.

Massage therapy helps soothe your muscles by stretching them sideways. This motion can help decrease tension on your muscles, thus relieving muscle pain. Also, it can help break down scar tissues caused by previous training or injuries, thus increasing mobility.

2. Improves muscle tone and blood circulation to muscle tissues - Blood carries nutrients to different tissues in the body. If you're a body builder, it is important that your muscles get enough nutrients for muscle repair and development. Massage therapy can help improve blood flow to your muscle tissues. This can provide your muscle tissue with enough nutrients for tissue regeneration and build up, reducing the recovery time. With increased circulation of your muscles for tissue repair, it will also help improve muscle tone.

Other than allowing your muscle tissues to receive more nutrients, massage therapy also improves removal of waste products due to metabolism and muscle contractions, like lactic acid. The buildup of lactic acid in your muscles can prevent effective muscular contractions, which causes pain and reduces muscle development. Massage therapy can help improve drainage of lactic acid from muscle tissues relieving pain and allowing effective muscle contractions.

3. Injury prevention - In body building, there is always a risk of getting an injury as you put your body in constant strain and stress. Sports massage therapists may be able to recommend or provide you with a massage program that will help the occurrence of sports-related injury. These therapists provide a massage regimen that is catered for your specific needs. They can help loosen up tight muscles in specific areas, while breaking down scar tissues to improve your performance.

4. Improves stage performance and psychological aspect - When you are about to enter a competition, stress and anxiety can build up in your body. This will add to the stress of working out. This can affect you both mentally and physically. With a soothing massage prior to a competition, you can relax and lower down the tension in your body. This can prepare you mentally and psychologically, giving you enough confidence as you get up on stage.

The Risks and Benefits of Joint Mobilization Therapy

Joint mobilization massage is a specific type of therapy for the treatment of chronic joint pain, release of tension in the muscle tissue, joint, and ligament in the neck, spine, feet, ankles, wrists, and head. The therapy works best for the treatment of sports related injuries as well as the conditioning of the joints, muscle tissue, and ligaments prior to any activity.

In a joint mobilization therapy, the benefits cover all the risks there is in the treatment due to its low level of risks involved. For that reason, this wonderful therapy is used commonly on elder people who are prone to arthritis. As we age, our body also ages and becomes more susceptible to diseases, ailments, and many conditions. Our body becomes weak and fragile which is why most of the therapeutic massage types are not recommended for the aged. However, the technique used in joint mobilization are suitable for the seniors in that the massage therapist uses slow movement and gentle massage to avoid damaging the tissue, nerves, and other vital elements of the body.

Basically, the purpose and benefits of this therapy is to improve the mobility or joint play of the affected limbs that had suffered under injuries or through the painful condition of arthritis. In conditions that affect the mobility of a person, sufficient joint play should be achieved in order to regain lost or restricted mobility. The therapy is beneficial and effective for the physically challenged individual as it can strengthen the muscle tissue, ligament and joints. These three are the recipes for achieving proper movement, flexibility and strength. Without the healthy condition and proper function of these, the body begins to crumble into a poor state.

The risks involved in a joint mobilization therapy are very slim and are quite insignificant as compared to the benefits a client can gain from the treatment. However, we should also give consideration and the rightful precaution in order to avoid even the slightest chance of experiencing the risks of this massage therapy. Injuries due to the wrong manipulation of the injured part of the body are the major risk considered in this therapy. The massage therapist should carefully maneuver the injured limb in a slow movement in order to improve its mobility by releasing the tension on the joint area where the tissues surrounding it are stiff. Any sudden movement of the injured limb would result to additional injuries instead of restoring joint play.

In general, the joint mobilization massage therapy is more of advantageous than disadvantageous due to the amazing effects and success after every session. However, the outcome of any surgery doesn't guarantee of always being successful. The results are always in a case to case basis which is why the client needs to weigh in all the pros and cons of a therapy before indulging into it. Aside from the immediate knowledge he has over the therapeutic massage, additional information from a knowledgeable individual should be taken to gain only the benefits and reduce the risks and dangers of the therapy.

Health Benefits of Indian Head Massage

Massage is a form of therapy which aims in improving the health condition of the human body as well as giving it a relaxing experience by freeing up stress from the body. There are many types of therapeutic massage that were developed to serve various purposes although they all share the same objective which is to soothe the physical and emotional state of the body, heal various conditions, improve the immunity against sickness and disease and to improve the circulation within the body.

Indian head massage is just one of the many 160 different types of massage therapies practiced and enjoyed all around the world. This type of therapy specializes in pampering the human body through the manipulation of nerves and muscle tissues on the head, neck, face, upper arms and shoulders of the patient. This technique is also known as Champissage, which means head massage in the Hindi language. Soft and gentle massage techniques are used to address stress, tensions, emotional problems and body pain.

This therapy which originated in India as a service offered after getting hair done at a barber shop was enjoyed by Narendra Mehta. His satisfaction was put to an end though on his transfer of residency in England. Mehta was a blind physical therapist who was responsible in improving the traditional Indian head massage. He combined energy works with traditional Ayurvedic principles to create an effective art of healing and relaxation. This therapy was later on introduced and practiced in England.

Before the therapy begins, the patient is asked to get positioned in a comfortable sitting posture on a chair. Clothing can be either removed or kept during the therapy. The patient can also choose whether to use massage oil or not. Indian head massage usually lasts 30 minutes although the patient can always request for an additional time especially when the therapy is done as a home service.

Indian head massage mainly focuses in giving the patient a whole body relaxation by working and conducting various massages techniques mostly on the head. Therapy sessions begin with deep breathing exercises to create a sense of relaxation. The therapist usually begins by conducting gentle strokes on the shoulder of the patient which helps in relieving stress, body pain and tensions within the muscle groups of that area. The soft touch of the therapist's hands stimulates the nerves which send a comforting message to the brain. This then enhances the mood and emotional condition of the patient which can be helpful in the relaxation process of the therapy. The masseuse then goes to the neck and begins massaging it to relieve neck pain. The head then is massage from the scalp to the face in a soft massage technique which can sometimes put the patient falling asleep while sitting on the chair. This is a sign of total body relaxation and satisfaction.

During the therapy, the patient should be vocal on how he or she feels as the pressure used is increased. Any pain should be notified to the therapist to avoid physical problems and discomfort during the therapy session.

Are There Any Risks Involved In Massage Therapy?

Regardless of how it is phrased or worded, one question which must always be asked of a potential massage therapist is the following, "Which health conditions would you consider preclusive of massage therapy and why?" And the correct answer, whether stated in exactly those words or different ones, should be, "There are certain health conditions which must rule out massage therapy and those are ..." And he or she must name the following:

Cancer. Massage therapy comes in different forms which affect the body differently. There are also many different types of cancers and patients may be at different stages and receiving different treatments. In some cases and certain types of massage therapy may lead to life threatening results while in other cases with another type of massage therapy the results may be extraordinarily beneficial. Because of such complexity, it is essential to consult with the medical provider who knows the particulars of the case in question before proceeding with a massage therapy of any kind.

The potential risks involved in performing massage therapy on cancer patients do not inevitably discard the entire concept of massage therapy but it does mean that extra caution must be practiced and, perhaps, moderate to extreme alteration of the treatment is in order. And the health risks are the following:

Fractures of bones. Certain forms of cancer and their treatments weaken bones to the extent that they can easily break under pressure.

Bleeding. Many cancer patients have the tendency to bleed easily. Deep tissue massage can cause dangerous internal bleeding.

Spreading of cancerous tumors. There is an ongoing debate about the effects of massage therapy on tumors. Some claim that applying vigorous pressure to the area where the tumor is present will cause it to metastasis (break down and to spread or to increase its rate of growth). Others, however, deny that claim as unsubstantiated and untrue. It is best to play it safe and not massage the tumor region or its surrounding soft tissues.

Lymphedema (the buildup of lymph in soft tissue which leads to swelling of the limbs). Certain types of massage therapy in patients who have had their lymph nodes removed due to cancer may lead to lymphedema.

Flu-like symptoms. Patients who are going through chemotherapy can often develop symptoms which look and feel like the flu after having been treated to certain types of massage therapy.

Pain. Cancer patients frequently suffer a great deal of pain and most massage therapy techniques can result in some temporary pain immediately after the treatment. That may translate to added pain when too much of it is already present and that can be quite literally unbearable.

Post-surgery. Shortly after surgery, the wound is still in the process of healing visually on the surface of the skin as well as internally. Applying pressure to the site may cause a series of risky health problems such as reopening the incision, trigger internal and/or external bleeding or blood clotting, and so on.

Skin conditions. Areas where the skin is infected, inflamed or covered with rashes or sores should not be massaged as it can lead to worsening of the condition.

Even when taking into account all the risks which have been mentioned above, massage therapy can still be very beneficial to most people in most situations. Rather than discounting it completely due to specific concerns, I would advise consulting a physician.

Physical Therapist Assistant - 10 Tips on Becoming a Great Clinician

The following are 10 tips that you can learn and apply in the clinical setting as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Having the responsibility of improving someones life not only physically but mentally has a big price tag on it. To be more then just your average clinician you should find a place in your career for them.

1. Be Passionate: Having a passion for the field of physical therapy is a must. Without passion you are just plodding along. The lack of passion will show not only in areas like your tone of voice and body language but, in your work as a whole. Your patient has been through enough down time already they are looking for someone that has skip in their walk and enjoys their work. Having passion will show in everything you do and it will show to everyone. be glad your there.

2. Be a Motivator: Motivation I have found plays a big part in the game of rehabilitation. Most patients will not be someone that is internally motivated, many are externally motivated. Keeping your patient interested in their rehabilitation can be tough but with some encouragement and skill you can usually get the patient to participate in the program. Of course there will always be those that nothing will get them to follow along. Some will be lost and you will not get them back.

3. Have a Get it Done Attitude: you will find days that you will feel you are being stretched beyond your means and capabilities. Having an attitude of defeat will not suffice here. In time you will learn how to exceed your limits. Your co-workers and patients will be counting on you and no one will be coming to the rescue. Insist upon yourself that you can accomplish whatever is laid before you when it comes to having to multi-task and you will succeed.

4. Be Competent: This go without saying that being a competent clinician helps. Being competent means not only in your profession but, but having the knowledge and skillset to be able to think out problems and how to solve them. Most of the encounters that you will come up against out in the field will be situations that necessarily were not in your textbooks. Becoming fully competent will only come with real world work experience and in time you will learn how to handle these unforseen situations.

5. Have A Friendly Personality: Getting along not only with your patients but with your co-workers will be essential. Having all the knowledge in the world but not being able to share it with people or have the people skills on how to present it is a lost cause. As the old saying goes "you get more with honey then you do with vinegar" is true. Present yourself with a smile an expression that says I'am here to help.

6. Be A Good Listener: knowing how to listen has become a lost art. You will be surprised what you can learn from your patient if you will give them a few minutes of your time and hear them out. I have been enlightend many times with information that proved valuable after listening to the patient before I began to dictate what I was going to do. Not only will you learn something that will save you some time but it helps build that mutual respect with your patient.

7. Be Empathic: This might be the most important trait of all. Someone once said " No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care." This very true. Again all the book knowledge in the world will not help you with the respect and cooperation from the patient if you do not show and demonstrate that you care about their well-being. If you show and tour actions are perceived that you care about what they may be going through, you will find the patient willing to work with you in difficult situations and you build a better bond between you both.

8. Never Stop Learning: Always be willing to continue reading in your area that you specialize in. Once you stop reading and learning you begin to regress. This is the reason behind some of the continuing education requirements in most states. You will never learn it all however. By reading you stay ahead of the average Therapist that is not reading and you continue to hone your skill. By continuing to read you are giving your patients the best possible care you can by staying up on new trends and rehabilitation tools that can be utilized in their recovery.

9. Be Dependable: Many people will be counting on you to come through for them. This includes not only fellow workers but, your patients. When you say you are going to do something then do it. If you are going to try reaserch a new treatment protocol and the patient is expecting some feedback then deliver it . Nothing will hurt your reputation more in the clinic then not being able to be counted on. In the world of Physical Therapy word gets around fast. It is a small world and if you are nothing more then show then that will be the reputation you will get. You do not want to go that route. Say it and then do it!

10. Be Good at Time Management: Keeping track of your time and being efficient is vital in any clinical setting. Everyone will be busy, you will learn how to manage time or you will get buried and become ineffective. Poor time management skills will reflect in other parts of your life as well. Your patients though they will not say it will expect you to be precise in your time. If you are not advise them beforehand that is the way to properly handle your patient. Most people will understand that there are emergencies in life but a simple phone call or stopping by their room to let them know will let the patient know you respect them enough to keep them abreast of your schedule. Your co-workers will appreciate it also.

There you have it. 10 of the most important skills to take with you once you leave school and enter the workforce. This list is not the holy grail there are many other traits and skills that are important and that could be added as well. Take them read them over and modify them if you wish then, make it a point to practice them each and every day and you will then be a success in your career.

Richard Haynes PTA/CPT Punta Gorda, Florida.

The Benefits of Giving a Thai Massage

Much is said for the healthful benefits of receiving Thai massage, the holistic, healing and often life changing energy based bodywork from Thailand. Its benefits lie in the fact that Thai massage addresses the whole person - body, mind and spirit. Its attention is broad, complete, hopeful, honoring and trusting of each person's innate ability to heal and become well. It is based on the concept that a life force energy circulates along energy pathways throughout the body, maintaining health and vitality. It works along these energy pathways to correct imbalances and remove any restrictions that can result in pain, tension or dis-ease. By facilitating energy to flow freely and unrestricted, tension eases, pain lessens, flexibility increases, blood and lymph circulation improves, elimination of wastes and toxins is enhanced, body-mind energies come into balance and the person relaxes and experiences an overall sense of well-being. Yes, much is said about the benefits of receiving, but less about the benefits of giving - and Thai massage is beneficial for the giver.

Traditional Thai massage, is the sacred healing bodywork of Thailand, but has influences from other countries, cultures and medical traditions. Its origin is credited to an Indian physician Jivaka Kumar Bhaccha, also known as Doctor Shivago Komparaj, who is said to have been the personal physician and friend to the Buddha over 2500 years ago. It's influences include acupuncture, herbs, and Tui-na massage from China and Ayurvedic massage, yoga asanas (postures) and Buddhism from India.

An important aspect of Thai massage is that it applies the Buddhist teachings of the four divine states of mind - metta (loving kindness ), kuruna (compassion), mudita (sympathetic joy) and upekkha (equanimity). Metta is the desire to make others happy and the ability to show loving kindness. Kuruna is having compassion for those who suffer and the desire to ease their suffering. Mudita is rejoicing in sympathetic joy with those who have good fortune and never feeling envy. Upekkha is regarding others with equanimity, having a state of composure arising from a deep awareness and acceptance of the present moment, without preference, prejudice, judgment or criticism. While applying the qualities of metta, kuruna, mudita and upekkha with the desire for the receiver's well-being, the giver creates a moving meditation, mindfully flowing from one position to the next. This benefits the overall health of not only the receiver, but the giver as well.

Thai massage is also beneficial to the giver, as it encourages him or her to be healthy and balanced - physically, emotionally and spiritually. In order to give an effective and quality Thai massage, one must be in good physical and emotional condition with plenty of energy. Since Thai massage is such a close and intimate form of bodywork, it is important for the giver to feel as healthy, or healthier, than the receiver. Being in good condition makes it easier to focus, tune in to the receiver's needs and create a circuit of energy between giver and receiver that benefits both.

Thai massage appears more tiring and strenuous than it actually is. By using good body mechanics and leverage, rather than forced muscle strength, it is not straining and takes less effort than is apparent. Often, the giver feels invigorated following a session. When done mindfully and with proper technique it can be quite relaxing. The giver remains in a meditative state of mind while stretching and strengthening his or her own body. During the massage, it is important the giver stay relaxed, mentally scanning his or her body for areas of held tension. By constantly self-correcting, breathing into tight areas and releasing any areas of tension as needed, the giver receives the health giving effects as much as the receiver.

In the West, Thai massage is often called Thai Yoga Bodywork, since giving Thai massage is similar to doing yoga. It shares similar benefits, such as increased flexibility and strength and improved circulation. As in doing yoga, giving Thai massage is also beneficial for internal organs and glands, as well as for all systems of the body including the muscular, vascular, digestive, endocrine and nervous systems. It improves the givers posture, body alignment and body awareness as well as his or her breathing and ability to remain balanced, centered, present and calm. Done regularly, it helps keep the giver healthy and young.

The beauty of Thai massage is that both giver and receiver benefit. There is a circuit of energy that flows between them during their therapeutic dance that is mutually balancing. Giver and receiver become co-facilitators in the practical expression of loving kindness that improves their well-being. Because of this, the giver may continue to practice the health enhancing art of Thai massage for a long time, even into their old age.

Mothers Going Back To School To Set A Good Example For Their Children

Although the primary goal for enrolling in college is to pursue a college degree, the pursuit can render additional value for mothers returning to school. When moms make the commitment to pursue a college degree, it affords them valuable means to help instill educational principles in their children. As a family leader, a mom becomes a shining example for her children to follow.

Academic success requires motivation. As a student, the opportunities for a mom to encourage her children to strive for academic excellence are countless. As a role model, she can use her own college experience to showcase perseverance, commitment, and success. Children, who witness the success of their mother's academic achievement, are more likely to apply the same characteristics to their own educational objectives.

When moms return to college, it provides a chance for them to bond with their children. Parents should make the best of every opportunity that results in time spent together. Homework can be done together, which strengthen the tie between mother and child. Homework time allows for the parent and child to invest in each other's academic goals.

You may have experienced a time when your child came to you needing help to complete a homework assignment. Unfortunately, due to limited exposure to academics, you were unable to help your child complete his or her assignment. However, moms who return to college can utilize methods and concepts learned in college classes to help their children grow and develop in their studies and achieve academic success.

Moms can set aside reading time whereby both she and the child (children) attend to the reading assignments together. This can easily turn into fun time together, as each can read from his or her assigned textbook and discuss each other's passages. This is an excellent opportunity for mothers to develop their children's reading skills and enhance critical thinking skills by engaging in active discussions and effective communication.

Moms who return to college get a firsthand knowledge as to which subjects and courses are vital for their children to take prior to transitioning into college. As a student, a mother will be able to help her child prepare for foundational subjects like science, math, and English. She will also gain experience as a writer when in college. This will come in handy when critiquing her child's homework, reports, and essay papers.

Many colleges and universities are helping women who return to school by providing daycare services for their children to attend. These services are typically available for primary school age children. While children are on campus, they get a preview into college life, even at an early age. This helps to embed the notion of post-secondary education as an expected component of a child's academic life.

The Basics of Japanese Massage

Over the years many different schools of massage have developed, each one displaying a variety of techniques to help people to relax, feel better, and live healthier. At the same time, an interest in medical techniques and theories from Asia has developed in the United States. Because of this, people are giving Chinese and Japanese massage techniques a try. Japanese massage incorporates theories about pressure points and the way energy flows through the body, and uses these ideas along with massage techniques in a philosophy of preventative medicine.

Shiatsu

Shiatsu is perhaps one of the newest forms of Japanese massage, originating in the early 1900s and born out of older techniques. While other massage techniques might use the forearms, elbows, and even the feet to accomplish various healing and relaxing motions on a patient, Shiatsu massage involves techniques using only the fingers and the palm of the hand.

A skilled practitioner of Shiatsu massage can not only relax someone, but can use his sense of touch to explore a person's body and find the points that need treatment the most. Like many Japanese massage and medical techniques, the theory behind Shiatsu massage is to help stimulate the body's natural immune response and ability to relax as a means of preventative medicine.

Nihon Kaifuku Anma

Shiatsu is actually a subset of a larger range of Japanese massage techniques known as Nihon Kaifuku Anma. This form of massage came to Japan over 1300 years ago, and had already been practiced in China for years prior to this.

This Japanese massage school works with deep tissue massage that is based on kneading motions. Unlike Western massage techniques, this Japanese massage technique is performed without the use of massage oils to reduce friction. Two techniques are unique to Anma, and these include kneading the body and the use of percussive techniques, which work by gently striking areas of the body.

The theory behind Anma massage is that the body's energy flows along particular pathways, and stimulating certain areas will influence the workings of the body's organs, leading to greater overall health. These concepts are similar to those used in acupuncture and other Eastern medicines. The purpose of Japanese massage is to help improve the way the body functions before problems show up, not after. This is a common feature in Japanese massage, whether the techniques originated thousands of years ago or merely one hundred years ago. If you want to try preventative medicine with a long history of success and many devotees, give Japanese massage a try.

Massage Therapy - How to Give a Good Neck Massage

Massage therapy has been used for many years and for different reasons from a relaxation technique to a more sensual massage to spark a little passion. When most people ask for a neck massage, they are most likely asking because of a sore neck. Using computers for long periods can cause neck pain, but so can sleeping improperly, sports, lifting heavy things and many other activities. If you have experienced neck pain, you know what it is like and you do not wish it on anyone. One way to help is to learn how to give a good neck massage.

Therefore, when your spouse or partner needs a neck massage, you are ready to help.

A neck massage can help alleviate a headache and radiating neck pain, if it is done properly. There are a number of steps in completing a proper neck massage that are outlined below:

1. Use good quality massage oil and apply it to the neck to help reduce friction on the skin. This is important because friction can cause a burning sensation.


2. Start at the base of the neck and work your way upward to the base of the skull, stretching the muscle.


3. If you can feel small muscle knots, rub them out in one direction, stretching them so that the knot eventually goes away. You can also massage in a small circular motion, working on the affected muscles.


4. If the person that you are massaging is relaxed, this process will not take long, but tense muscles make the process quite long and may pull muscles. Make sure to create a quiet and relaxing environment, free of stress.


5. When stretching and pulling on the muscle, make sure to follow the muscle down to where you can feel it stop to get the full benefit. Make sure to massage both the right and left sides of the neck, with the head turned to the left and the right.


6. Make sure not to rush or be too forceful as this can cause injury.

The next time you are asked to provide a neck massage, use the steps above to make it an enjoyable experience. Massage therapy is a great way to relieve stress and pain in the neck.

Massage Etiquette: The Thin Line Between a Harmless Massage and Sexual Misconduct

Pursuing a career in massage therapy is never that easy. As a massage therapist, I subscribe to Google Alerts about the latest news in massage therapy and, ever so often, I receive alerts regarding massage etiquette violations. I often ask myself: what went wrong in these cases? What are the boundaries that separate a simple slip and sexual misconduct? Let's find out.

Massage is a sensual activity. Meaning, it stimulates the senses. It stimulates the nerves in such a way that it brings sensations to the area being massaged. These sensations can be interpreted by some as okay, while others may treat it way over their scale. And sometimes these "sensations" lead to misinterpretation... Although it may also mean the real thing... There really is a thin line that separates the sensual from the sexual so it is important to stress out the role of the Massage Code of Ethics to avoid any Criminal Suits against therapist and to know whether or not you are being violated.

Do's and Don'ts of Massage Etiquette (for the Massage Therapist and the Client)

DO's;

For the massage therapist:

• It is your responsibility to provide a relaxing, conducive and professional environment for the client.


• You should inform the client what the massage/treatment will be comprised of before the client lies on the table.


• Leave the room to allow the client to change and get under the massage sheet on the table alone. Do return if the client is ready for the massage to start.


• Drape the client properly. This is to only expose the area to be massaged.


• As a massage therapist, be consistent with your confident touch - not too light nor too hard.

For the client:

• As a client, you should communicate with the massage therapist.


• To both the client and the massage therapist, do follow the accepted standards of your country/state where you are located in terms of the space or boundaries for two people speaking to each other.

DON'Ts:

For the massage therapist:

• As a massage therapist, do not disclose too much personal information that may lead your client to feel uncomfortable during the course of conversation.


• As a massage therapist, don't extend past their appointments to compensate late arrivals. As a professional, stick with the schedule. This is very basic in massage etiquette.


• As a massage therapist, do not touch the genitals of your client. Also, breast massage is not included in a full body massage.

For the client:

• As a client, don't be alarmed if you have to undress for the massage therapy. However, be aware that the amount of clothing to wear depends on the type of massage you'll undergo. For a full body Swedish massage, it is normal to undress but it is not necessary. You can also wear your underwear if you want to.


• As a client, don't hesitate to tell your massage therapist if you're uncomfortable with undressing, you can wear anything that you're comfortable with.

Massage Therapist - How to Select Massage Therapist

A good massage therapist offers an easy solution to various physical problems. The one factor that makes a massage therapy session a success is the choice of the massage therapist. If you do not know how to select a therapist, here is a guide to help you.

o The first criterion for selecting a therapist should be the training that he or she has undergone. The therapist should have completed a good 1,000 hours training from a nationally certified massage training school. Always check the therapist's certification.

o The second criterion is the amount of work experience. With at least 5 years of experience, a therapist should know how to deal successfully with various physical ailments.

o The third criterion is the familiarity with new tools and techniques. Knowledge of recent developments means that the therapy offered will be much more effective.

o Another criterion is the kind of oils, creams and other massage products used by the therapist. The quality and selection of these products can greatly enhance the massage experience.

o The type of massage chosen by the therapist to treat a particular ailment is very important. Different massage therapies are designed to treat different types of physical ailments. A competent and experienced therapist should be able to advise you on the best therapy for a particular ailment. The choice of massage made by the therapist will help you decide on that particular massage therapist's service.

o The length of the session is also an important point. Many therapists prefer short massage sessions while many others prefer long ones. If you think that a short massage session is not adequate for you then you should choose a therapist who offers a longer massage.

o Last, but not least, is the fee. Your therapist's charges should be within your budget. Ask if the massage therapist offers some special packages or discounts. Check whether the massage therapist takes cash, check or a credit card. Stick to your most comfortable mode of payment.

Follow the above mentioned tips and you will be on your way to a comfortable and healing experience.

Physical Therapy for Preventative Care

There are many different fields of physical therapy which can assist with preventative care and health and wellness. Physical therapists specialize in different areas such as orthopedic, geriatric, neurological, cardiovascular and pulmonary, pediatric, health and wellness and other types of rehab therapy. A physical therapist does more than treat injuries and disabilities that result from illness. Physical therapy also involves research, patient education, counseling of patients, and developing new ways of using physical therapy, as well as developing treatment plans which are personalized for each patient.

Physical injury and pain is common in all types of people which is the main reason physical therapy profession exists. However, physical therapists also take a sincere interest in the overall health and wellness of their patients which means they are capable of providing preventative care. So, if you are wondering how physical therapy can help you with preventative care here are a few reasons why you should seek physical therapy as early on as possible.

See a Physical Therapist Regularly

Just like you schedule a regular check-up with your physician as a preventative measure against illness, the same rule applies to physical therapy. You should schedule a regular check-up with a physical therapist to prevent pain and injury from becoming a chronic problem.

A physical therapist can evaluate the status of your health through a detailed evaluation of muscular, skeletal, neurological, cardiovascular and pulmonary, and other parts of your body. If the physical therapist finds a weakness they will recommend a personalized treatment plan. This prevents the problem from getting worse and requiring further treatment. Many people do not think about the option of seeing a physical therapist regularly because they think this type of rehab therapy is only for disability and injury.

Prevent Surgical Treatment

If a physical therapist detects a problem early on it can be treated with the proper rehabilitation plan and prevent you from having surgery as a result of allowing the problem to get worse. This is another reason why physical therapy is important for preventative care. Not only can it keep you mobile and healthy, it can also save you the expense of surgery and medications down the road. Additionally, it can bypass further health problems that can transpire as the result of having surgery. If the procedure is not performed properly the probability of having bigger complications following the surgery are quite good.

Maintain Physical Strength

As you age you lose muscle mass and if you do not engage in a maintenance program you can end up with a host of mobility problems. A physical therapist can design a treatment plan to help keep you moving and to strengthen your muscles and bones to help you live a high quality of life well into the later years of your life. If you start the maintenance program before you begin to experience problems you can head anything off before it has a chance to take hold of you.

Prevent High Costs of Medical Care

Most people do not seek help until the problem has become serious and then they require medical care and treatment. Medical care costs have skyrocketed with more insurance companies making the patient pay more out of their pocket. If you head off the health issue before it requires serious attention such as surgery, you can save a lot of money while enjoying good physical health.

Health and Wellness

Physical therapy can help you to stick with a health and wellness program which will allow you to enjoy a higher quality of life. Overall health and wellness is a preventative measure against further health issues down the road however most people do not follow it due to a fast paced lifestyle. If you are having trouble staying with a regimen a physical therapist can help provide a personalized plan for maintaining you health and diet. Healthy choices and regular exercise prevent a lot of health problems regardless of your age.

Although you may not have considered physical therapy as preventative care perhaps you should begin. As you can see, there is a lot that physical therapy can do for you and your health and at a much lower cost.

What is the Best Type of Massage Therapy For Me?

Massage therapy is a broad term used to describe various techniques of manual (hands on) therapy which is used to promote tissue health, relieve pain and increase functionality of a body, be it human or animal. The type of massage therapy which will benefit an individual varies greatly according to his or her particular issue or injury and state of health. There is something for everyone, and it is wise for clients to investigate their options to find what works for them.

The most commonly recognized type of massage is Swedish Massage, developed by Per Henrik Ling in the late 1700 and early 1800's. Swedish massage techniques consists of long, smooth strokes (effleurage), tissue kneading (petrissage), or tapping (tapotement), and can be used to either relax muscle or increase its tone depending on the application and technique. Pressure can be very light or deep, depending on the therapist, your needs and your tolerance to pressure. During a massage therapy treatment that primarily consists of Swedish techniques, other modalities, which may require further or specialized training, can be used.

Relaxation, sports, pregnancy, infant and geriatric massage all contain elements of Swedish techniques.

Relaxation massage tends to be slower and more rhythmic than a treatment oriented therapeutic massage and its primary goal is to increase relaxation of the client. In infant massage, therapists teach parents how to work on their own infants, which is a great bonding experience and may help parents relieve colic and help their babies sleep better. For special populations or conditions, such as pregnancy or geriatric massage, the application of techniques needs to be modified to suit the needs of the client.

Sports massage therapy consists not only of Swedish techniques, but also of stretching, including "active inhibition" techniques, and can be performed either pre or post-event. Sports massage therapy that is performed pre-event uses quick, rhythmic movements to warm up and stretch the muscles, preparing them for the demand to be placed on them. Post-event sports massage is slower and is done to relieve pain, swelling, assist in the removal of metabolic waste and to decrease recovery time. Massage therapy for athletes and fitness enthusiasts is also a great maintenance tool which can address muscular imbalances and injuries and help them achieve optimal performance.

Deep Tissue Massage Therapy basically consists of Swedish techniques which are used at a deeper level of the tissue. To perform any type of massage effectively, but especially deep tissue, the muscles must be warmed up at a superficial level to allow the therapist to go into the deeper layers and address restrictions found there. It is advisable for therapists who want to practice "deep tissue" to have a hi-lo table and get specialized training to help hem maintain their own body, back and joint health. It is advisable for new massage therapy clients to work up to a deep tissue type of therapy as it is not suitable for everyone and may be painful for someone who is not accustomed to manual therapy.

Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy is also know as trigger point release. A myofascial trigger point is a hyperirritable area within a tight band of muscle. The goal of this therapy is to reduce or remove the trigger point, thus alleviating pain. Referral pain often has a very specific pattern depending on the muscle in which it is found, and can often present in a seemingly unrelated area. Trigger point therapy is integrated into Swedish massage treatments which assists in warming up and stretching the tissue pre and post release respectively.

Frictions or Friction therapy is a very localized, specific technique used to break down adhesions and scar tissue which may cause pain and inhibit movement. Friction therapy is not used alone, but is integrated into a routine where Swedish techniques are used to warm up the tissue and to aid circulation to remove metabolic waste post friction.

Myofascial release therapy, also called fascial release, consists of manipulation and stretching of the fascia - connective tissue which encases muscles, nerves, organs and bones in the body. To properly anchor and engage the tissue, no oil or other mediums are used, as "glide" over tissue is ineffective in most myofascial techniques.

Manual lymph drainage, also called lymphatic, lymph or lymphedema massage, is a series of gentle movements used to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid in the body, thereby relieving pain and congestion. This type of therapy is perfect to assist in the reduction of swelling post injury, and is also used to reduce swelling post surgery. MLD, as it is commonly known, is also used with great success for women who have a mastectomy, however, special training is required for therapists to treat when lymph nodes have been removed.

In most massage therapy training, the focus is primarily on Swedish techniques, but the above modalities may be learned as an adjunct to Swedish massage, or as continuing education.

Active release is a patented therapy which encompasses various movements while tissue is being manipulated. The term "active" refers to the fact that the patient voluntarily contracts his or her muscles as techniques are applied. This therapy requires specialized training and certification.

Craniosacral Therapy - is a gentle manual therapy developed by William Garner Sutherland, a student of Osteopathy, in the early 1900's. Craniosacral therapy, or CST, is believed to work by addressing soft tissue restrictions around the central nervous system, which in turn affect the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. Craniosacral therapy often relieves pain, induces deep relaxation and may encourage a more restful sleep.

Shiatsu is a manual therapy originating in Japan, and consists of finger pressure along various meridian or energy points throughout the body. Shiatsu is believed to work by removing any blockages along the meridians so energy travels more freely and the body can function normally.