Massage Technique - Friction

Description

Friction movements normally make use of the balls of the thumbs (although the fingertips, knuckles or even the elbows may be used). The muscle is moved against the bone by small circular movements of the balls of the thumbs. Stand directly over the area to be treated and use your body weight to penetrate right down into the deeper tissues - the human body is not as delicate and fragile as you might imagine. This stroke is particularly effective when performed on either side of the spine. If your thumbs are not aching by the time you reach the neck area you are not performing the stroke correctly!

Benefits

• This technique is particularly useful for breaking down the knots and nodules that build up in the body due to the stresses and strains of daily life.


• Any accumulated waste products may be eliminated.


• Friction helps to break down the fatty deposits and is therefore of benefit in cases of obesity.


• Friction is very effective around a well-healed scar to break down adhesions and is also used to massage around bony prominences such as the patella (knee cap).


• It also increases the temperature by increasing cellular activity and bringing an increased flow of blood to an area providing temporary analgesia (pain relief).

Errors to avoid

• Work deeper and deeper into the tissues gradually, as the pain tolerance levels vary greatly. Do not overtreat an area as this can lead to pain and soreness.


• Do not hunch your shoulders with the effort (otherwise you will need a massage yourself straight afterwards).


• Ensure that you are moving the tissues under the skin and not just the skin.


• Use the pads of the thumbs only, avoiding digging the nails in!

How Using an EMR Will Help Grow Your Private Practice

As you're already aware, inefficiencies dramatically hinder the performance of your practice and negatively impact the level of success. At the end of the day, when your practice isn't operating at full speed, you're not generating the amount of revenue you would if you were operating at optimal efficiency.

Physical therapy management software has been proven to help solve these common issues and drive practice growth by providing you with the tools you need to improve physical therapy management and the overall growth of your practice. If you're on the fence about whether or not a physical therapy EMR will help you grow your practice, here's some "food for thought" to take into consideration as you ponder your decision.

You'll Gain Access to Information You Never Had Before

Using an EMR system that's designed specifically around physical therapy workflows will provide you with the data you need to make sounder business decisions, operate more efficiently and reduce your operating costs. With a physical therapy EMR, you'll gain access to in-depth information on the most important aspects of running a physical therapy business so you can strategically plan for the future with a robust business plan in your back pocket.

You'll Save Time and Reduce Costs

With an EMR, you'll eliminate many unnecessary expenses and save yourself and your staff time to focus on more important things - your patients!

EMRs eliminate the need for paper documentation, file cabinets to store patient charts or cumbersome appointment books. By "going green," you'll put more "green" in your pocket and help the environment. Physical therapy EMR systems pay for themselves almost immediately. Even a modest improvement in charge capture alone typically results in a 2 to 5 percent improvement in reimbursements. Also, with an EMR system that includes physical therapy scheduling and physical therapy billing, you and your entire time will efficiently move through your day with quick and easy access to schedules, SOAP notes and charges.

Managing Your Schedule will be Easy as 1,2,3!

If you're feeling a bit apprehensive about jumping on the EMR bandwagon, starting with physical therapy scheduling software is an easy way to start implementing automation in your practice.

Electronic scheduling simplifies scheduling and will free up your front desk staff so they can focus more on patients. Automated scheduling boosts efficiency by allowing schedulers to quickly and easy reschedule appointments with drag-and-drop functionality. Multiple schedules can be centralized so schedulers can easily access schedules for all therapist and locations, if you're running more than one location. So, say good-bye to bulky scheduling books, and empower your front desk staff with automated scheduling.

You'll Stay One Step Ahead of Insurance Authorizations

EMR systems automate the insurance authorization process from start to finish. There are some pretty sophisticated physical therapy management systems out there that are pretty smart and capable of telling you if a patient is authorized with a quick and simple click of a button. With an EMR that contains an authorization module, your front desk and billing staff can easily check if a patient is authorized for treatment and manage the number of authorized visits for each patient that walks into your practice.

Documentation will Become Streamlined and Thorough

Using an EMR for clinical documentation may not speed up the documentation process; however, the quality of your documentation will skyrocket! EMRs help keep everyone in your practice documenting on track and leaves no room for missing charges. Electronic documentation is conducted at the time of treatment with minimal interruption to the patient's visit. In fact, many therapists who use electronic documentation feel their charting is more thorough because physical therapy EMR systems are designed with preconfigured templates that help therapists efficiently document as they treat their patients.

You'll Get Paid for All Your Hard Work

When your documentation is thorough, your billing will be thorough as well and you'll get paid for all your hard work. Plus, an EMR that includes physical therapy billing software allows you to submit your claims electronically which means you'll get paid faster! Another nice thing about EMRs is they can help make insurance eligibility a snap and displays required co-pay for every patient that checks in. That way, your front desk can collect co-pays before a patient receives treatment and avoid the hassle of trying to collect payment after the patient has left the office.

There are many EMR options available in the market. Choosing the one that's right for your practice is critical to your success. Going with an all-in-one solution will be the best option for an all-encompassing practice management solution that improves efficiency, boosts revenue and results in practice growth.

Massage Therapy and Its Common Forms

Massage therapy is considered as an alternative form of treatment for muscle aches and sports injuries. It is also used to rehabilitate other kinds of accidental injuries and relive pain. Most use it to reduce stress and relax the body. According to studies, it can reduce a person's anxiety; it can even improve the person's heart rate and blood pressure. There are many benefits that can be gained from a session of massage therapy which is why many people use it today as a form to relax and for recreation.

Massage therapy is the rubbing, soothing and manipulating of the muscles in the back, legs, arms and other parts of the body. Repeated motion, tapping and kneading is done to completely relieve the tension and aches in the body. Vessels, organs and joints can also be subjected to a massage therapy to reduce pain. Today, there are many types of these therapies available; a person just has to pick which technique is suitable to his or her needs.

Massage therapy has a long history and most countries have their own variation and technique. The Balinese variation that originated from Bali is considered as the gentlest technique as it aims to relax and calm the client. It uses aromatherapy oils and is said to improve the blood and oxygen circulation in the body. On the other hand, the deep tissue massage aims to rehabilitate injured muscles and joints. It uses deep pressure to reduce muscle injuries and aches in the connecting tissues, although aches and muscles pains can be felt after a session. Remedial massage is also applied to those who are recuperating from an injury as it stretches the injured muscles to achieve its original elasticity.

The most common of the therapies offered in recreational establishments like spa's and resorts are the Swedish and Shiatsu massage. Both use stroking, stretching and kneading to reduce muscle pain and stress. The Swedish technique is found to be an effective treatment to osteoarthritis as it reduces joint pains and stiffness. It is also considered as the classic massage in other countries. On the other hand, Shiatsu is a Japanese technique that is proven to improve blood circulation and relax the muscles. It is a massage that aids general wellness in the body. There are other massage therapies to choose from; however it should be noted that those who have blood clots, fractures and weakened bones should avoid the therapy as it can worsen their condition.

Taking a Hands On Approach Will Help You Choose the Right Massage School

The process of choosing a massage school is not dramatically different than selecting any other education program. The most important preliminary decision is to determine what exactly you want to do with your training. Are you interested in offering massage to help clients alleviate stress or alleviate pain? Would you like to work with medical patients, athletes or a variety of clients? By yourself or with a team?

You should also explore the various massage techniques to see if a particular approach or philosophy appeals to you more than others. Swedish, Reiki, Shiatsu, Acupressure, Sports Massage, Deep Tissue, Deep Muscle, etc. Each approach presents a specific benefit and you may find that massage schools offer training in multiple techniques or specialize in one discipline.

After narrowing your focus, you can begin evaluating massage schools in your area to determine which schools offer programs that are compatible with your interests. You should then contact each school to obtain any written information that identifies details, costs and requirements for the programs available at the school.

Make certain that you become familiar with the licensing requirements for the state in which you expect to practice. Pay specific attention to the number of education hours and the required exams. As you investigate your potential schools you will need to make sure that you will have the ability to meet all licensing mandates by matching them up with the programs offered by each massage school.

Take the time to visit each massage school on your list. Discuss your plans with the admissions staff and take note of the level of professionalism. Do they answer all of your questions convincingly? Do they make you feel comfortable or do you feel like you are receiving a sales pitch?

Tour the school and examine the classroom and training facilities. Is the school clean and sanitary? Is the equipment modern and well maintained? Does the facility feel like it will be comfortable environment for learning?

Find out whether the schools have received any accreditation. There are a number of organizations approved by the United States Department of Education to provide accreditation to massage schools. Some of these groups focus on broad educational standards while others use occupational training standards. Still other have an even narrower focus on health and even, very specifically, massage credentials.

The cost of a massage school education will be directly related to what you want to accomplish and the type of institution that you choose. If you plan to practice massage therapy in a state that does not have licensing requirements then you can may be able to become certified for as little as $1,000. But if you aspire to a career as a respected massage professional, and intend to meet or exceed all licensing requirements, programs may require 600-900 hours of training. Your total investment could range from $5,000-$10,000.

Financial aid is available for a massage therapy education. Federal loans and grants are available for federally accredited schools. Low interest education loans are also available and the school should be able to direct you to appropriate lending agencies.

You may find it extremely helpful to speak with alumni from the massage schools that you are considering. Ask them about their experience while attending the school and their contact with the school after graduation. You will want to know whether the school was helpful in providing career guidance and in finding employment. The feedback that you receive from alumni will be an indication of the support you should expect.

The more information that you acquire and the more questions that you ask, the better equipped you will be to make a sound decision. Massage therapy is a career that offers the potential for immense personal and professional satisfaction. With the proper training and guidance you will literally have in your hands the power to positively alter the physical and mental well-being of many appreciative individuals. The time you take to give thoughtful consideration about your choice of a massage school will pay dividends for many years to come.

Massage Therapy: Benefits to Circulation and Organs

There's lots of benefits that are associated with getting a massage. Some may be old to you, some may be new.

For one thing, there are large muscle "knots" in the body that are formed during our natural day-to-day activities. As these knots build up it may cause a variety of problems such as reducing access to vital energy, obstructing circulation as well as glandular functions, etc.

Circulation is improved via massage. By soothing the natural flow of blood in your body it enables more nutrients and oxygen to flow to your organs as well as muscles. This is essential to help your body heal itself, restore tissues, and allow essential functions to thrive.

Similarly, massage helps soothe your nerves connected to the organs which allows for improved healing and effective functioning of the organs. This ultimately allows for greater healing as well as improved energy or chi flow. Reflexology in conjunction with a massage will help in this area in particular. Chinese acupuncturists have been using these techniques for a long time.

Those are just some of the critical benefits associated directly with a massage. You may be surprised at how impactful a massage could be to your overall health. Now that you know, it's time to consider your own massage regimen.

Physical Therapy: Setting and Achieving Goals

Ask anyone who has ever been through it and they will tell you that intense physical therapy was one of the most harrowing, difficult, and painful things they ever went through. A good therapist challenges you to go up to your limits and then encourages you to push past them. If you're going to succeed in a program such as this, you can't simply rely on your therapists to determine your goals and achievements. You have to want it from the inside out. You have to push yourself beyond where you think your capabilities lie. Here are some tips on setting and achieving enormous goals.

Trust the Program

If you've ever watched "The Karate Kid," you probably remember the main character's endless frustration with painting fences, waxing cars, and sanding floors, wondering the entire time why he wasn't being trained in the karate Mr. Miyagi agreed to teach him. Of course, we soon discover that Daniel was learning more than he thought. It's easy to become similarly bewildered when going through physical therapy. Trust the program and trust the people you're working with. When things get tough, it's easy to start questioning the process. If you can keep those questions at bay, you can focus on getting the work done.

Visualization

Many experts believe we have not come within shouting distance of unlocking the true potential of the human mind. If this is true, it is easy to see why certain techniques and methods seem to work even when there is no strict scientific evidence to support them. Visualization falls into this category and many physical therapy programs depend on your ability to put them into practice. If you can see yourself doing something, it may help you achieve it in real life. At the very least, it won't hurt to try.

Never Accept Defeat

When your physical therapy program asks you to do something you know to be impossible, it's extremely easy to get a negative attitude. You give it one good try, fail, and insist that it can never be done. This may or may not be true, but a wise man once said, "Whether you think you can or you can't, you're right." This doesn't mean you can fly to the moon on a hummingbird if you believe it, but it does mean that you can accomplish amazing things if you believe in yourself and work hard towards a goal. Treat failure as room for improvement and nothing more.

How to Choose an Equine Massage School

There are many choices on the market today on the subject of deciding from where you could possibly get your equine massage education. Because this kind of alternative healthcare for animals keeps growing in popularity the choices for obtaining instruction within the field seem to be expanding almost exponentially. Just how do you determine which program to choose? Read on for some things to consider when coming up with the decision:

Time
What kind of time do you have to dedicate to learning this new skill before you need to go into practice? Everybody is hunting for a method to make extra money while keeping their current job. Others have lost their jobs because of the unstable economy and are looking for a job whereby they may improve themselves and never know the pain of someone else controlling their income again. Some people are stay-at-home moms with a family to consider while some are high school graduates with all sorts of time to dedicate to their vocation. The different options are any place from one weekend to multiple weeks and even A couple of years worth of weekends obtaining your equine massage education. You need to decide on a school to suit your time needs.

Cost
School fees may differ widely for no apparent reason. The price tag doesn't invariably dictate the quality of education you will definitely get. That's the spot where it gets tricky. You really are going to have to investigate this one. Look at everything the school is providing for that price. As an example, are books or some kind of a printed curriculum included? What about meals? Lodging? Transportation? The list can go on so make sure you are at ease with the price vs. value in the horse massage school you decide.

Location
Where would you like to spend time receiving this education? There are several beautiful schools all over the United States that give classes in horse massage. You should choose a place you can afford in addition to a location where you know you'll be comfortable. School locations vary from extremely rural to extremely urban; the spectrum is quite varied. You might not want to be stuck out in the center of the boonies without having cell service within a rundown farmhouse alongside people you have not met in your life! However, this may be exactly to your taste! Investigate it thoroughly because there is definitely an equine massage school for all.

Instructors
Be sure to understand who your instructors are going to be. Read up on them. Learn their education just as much as you are able to. Here's another tricky topic: just because the teachers have oodles of letters behind their names, they are certainly not necessarily able to explain what you need to know. Sometimes the most effective teachers/coaches/trainers to have aren't those who know it all or have done it all. The best educators are those who definitely have a burning desire for their work and a keen awareness of other ways to impart the knowledge to you and can connect to YOU. One excellent strategy to know if the instructor meets your needs is to be able to speak with them in advance. A phone call can be worth its weight in gold! Connect with the actual instructor(s); do not assume that discussing with the assistant, receptionist or spouse of the instructor is good enough.

Some school websites may even convince you your instructors ought to have written articles or books to be valid. Exactly the same principle applies. While books and articles are an exceptional thing to be able to tout, they don't always mean the instructor can teach the things they know.

Certification
Equine massage schools can provide you a certification if you have taken as little as 16 hours of class on up to 2200 hours of class and even more. Currently there isn't a national standard within this industry. Equine bodywork legal requirements vary from region to region. So a certification from any school or program at this point is simply a certificate of attendance. However, the greater hours you attend, the chances are the more educated you are. Does this necessarily cause you to be an outstanding equine bodyworker? Maybe, maybe not; but, the industry is now making efforts to unify and you are even able to become nationally certified from the National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage (NBCAAM) when you have acquired 200 hours or more of equine massage education. If you truly are concerned with the world at large having respect for what equine bodyworkers do, it might be most appropriate that you endeavor to obtain the National Certification in order to bring harmony and credibility to the practice. You don't have to obtain all 200 hours of education through one horse massage school. As just stated, you are able to still become an equine massage/ bodywork therapist without having a national certification. However, you'll want to have a certificate of attendance from whatever school you chose in the event that a prospective client should ask.

Your Purpose
Knowing what you want to do using the education you are seeking can be an essential element. Do you want to start your own horse massage practice? What type of massage or bodywork are you interested in? Are you looking to improve your ability to look after your own personal horses? Do you possess prior experience with horses or are you completely green to horses and this sounds fun and interesting? Do you already do bodywork or massage with horses and you're simply seeking to increase your knowledge? Are you the type who thrives on large volumes of head knowledge and technicalities, or do you think you're an individual that prefers to discover the art form of the craft and so are more kinesthetically inclined? All of these questions should really be answered to enable you to restrict the list of schools or programs that are perfect for you. Each school offers different elements which usually tend to satisfy different types of people. Discover the what and why of your wish to begin this field and then do your research with your answers at heart.

Conclusion
Needless to say, this isn't a complete list. There are even more items you may consider when you begin finding the right equine massage school to suit your needs. The most important point is, don't enter into a school without knowing enough to set your heart at ease. When you feel you've answered the majority of questions the selection will begin to become clear and you will begin on a path to an experience that you're going to likely enjoy immensely.

Physical Therapy Jobs - Reasons to Become a Physical Therapist

Physical therapy jobs can prove to be very fulfilling for most people. Not only do you get paid well, as most physical therapists make somewhere in the range of $65,000 to $85,000 on average, but you also get to make a difference in someone's life. Not everyone, including regular doctors and nurses, can go home at night and say that they got to help someone learn to walk again. Physical therapist jobs are not only beneficial in these regards, as there are many other reasons why someone should look into becoming a physical therapist.

Perhaps the biggest reason why therapy jobs are so loved is that you get to spend more time with each one of your patients. One of the biggest complaints from doctors that work for a typical HMO is that, on average, they only spend about 10 to 15 minutes talking with each of their patients. Physical therapists, on the other hand, usually will spend anywhere from 40 minutes to 1 hour, if not more, with each of their patients. Part of this has to do with the nature of physical therapy jobs. Since you are working primarily with a patient's muscles, trying to work them out enough to relieve stress and such, that type of work cannot be performed quickly.

Not only do physical therapy jobs allow you to spend more time with each of your patients, but there are plenty of other benefits that the job can offer. One of which is the fact that the job outlook for this is only going to go up as the years go by. With a bigger and bigger percentage of the baby boomer generation reaching their elder years, more physical therapists will be required to help alleviate things like back pain, muscle cramps and issues in these older patients. The Bureau of Labor estimates that employment prospects for therapy jobs are likely to increase 30% from 2008 to the year 2018.

Another benefit of physical therapy jobs is that you will have a lot of flexibility in your career choices. To start, you will likely end up working at a hospital or some other medical establishment, but as your experience increases, you can eventually branch out.

How Massage Therapy Might Help Lessen Tension

Resting is a talent that everybody should learn because it's a crucial part of a healthy and balanced way of living. It doesn't matter which of the many approaches you decide to help you unwind, but you should practise routinely to get the maximum benefit for your physical and psychological well-being. Daily use of a relaxation method may also make it easier for you to cope during periods of extra intense stress and fatigue.

Look for somewhere that is quiet, heated where you won't be disturbed; take off any lenses prior to starting. Lay face up on the floor, close your eyes, breathe in the air at your normal resting rate and rhythm. Firm up the muscles in your hands prior to relaxing them. As you exhale proceed up the body, tightening and relaxing the muscles, and when you reach the face, tense the mouth and eyes, then loosen up like the skin on your face is slipping off on to the ground and raise your head a couple of minutes, then loosen up your neck and jaw muscle groups to let your head to fall gradually back and let your mouth area and throat open up. Do this and after that lie absolutely still for some more minutes. You should feel totally relaxed. Lengthen your fingers and legs gently before you go back into action.

In the past, meditation has been an inclusive piece of a number of different beliefs, particularly those in line with Asian ideas. Persons experienced with yoga regularly use these methods as a route toward religious insight and a happy relationship. For most individuals in the West, however, the intention of meditation is simply to free up bodily pressure and generate deep peace through emptying your mind of fears.Various bodies practice deep breathing.

Choose a place where you won't be disturbed and aim to stay with your back straight, but vary this position in order to get more comfortable. Inhale and exhale at the normal flow, and unload your mind of feelings and ideas: repeat a statement without moving your mouth very much; the word or words should have no emotional significance so you can focus on the practice alone and not evaluate the meaning. Visualize a beautiful landscape and enjoy every minute detail of this picture in your mind's eye. As an alternative, with your eyes open, look at one object but don't attempt to examine its form or design. Meditate for only a few minutes till you think it is easy to clear your thoughts of potential distractions. With practice, you will steadily be able to increase the session of meditation up to 15 minutes. Regardless which technique you follow, you will notice that your brain wanders, or annoying thought processes start to intrude. The secret to success is to take yourself carefully back to focusing on your word, image or object each time this takes place.

Whilst yoga exercise is influenced by an ancient Indian philosophy this pursuit has become more popular then ever in the West in recent generations. Not only is yoga exercise a practice that will help relax your head and cut down strain, some movements improve sense of balance and dexterity, and increasing muscular strength and stamina levels. You ought to learn yoga and fitness inside a class.
There are plenty of massage therapy specialists who are experienced with massage therapy systems that have nothing to do with the more sleazy marketplace. One can find quite a few really good publications around which show you how to rub down your partner and yourself. Therapeutic massage includes stroking, rubbing and pummeling the muscles in several areas of our body. A massage can cut down exhaustion, in addition to leaving your face feeling fresher and more youthful.

You should never drink or eat prior to a massage. Massage therapy is not suitable for individuals with any of these disorders: nausea or an infection, including dermis infection; epidermis soreness in the area to be rubbed; discomfort compounded any time pressure is used; thrombosis, or spider veins (might be aggravated through stimulation of the affected region).

There's no substitute for practical tuition in the art of massage. Here are a few straightforward suggestions to get you started with therapeutic massage: pick a cozy, dimly lit, room or living area where you are not going to be disturbed. Remove anything that could irritate or be distracting, say for example a bracelet; jewelry must be taken off or covered with tape; if it turns out you do not have a specialised couch, the individual being massaged should lie on a cushioned area, possibly a mattress. In case the bed does not have a good mattress, use covers, or a mattress on the floor; the masseuse ought to kneel on anything comfortable to enable both hands to move easily over the skin, utilize a mild plant oil or cream.

An array of aromatherapy massage oils is accessible, each of which is recommended for individual disorders. When you employ a massage therapy oil, never pour it directly on someone getting rubbed. If you require additional oil, put some on to the back of the massaging hand and continue on stroking while you use your free hand to transfer this additional oil delicately on to the skin. Over bigger muscle groups, implement more rigid force but don't push too rigorously. When massage is bringing about a ticklish feeling, increase the pressure or proceed to an alternative region to relieve muscle tension, apply deeper pressure with your thumbs either kept still or moving about in small circles.To successfully loosen up stress filled muscles all around the shoulder blades, and thighs, consider using a kneading strategy. Applying pressure to muscles through clenched fists with your arms relaxed creates a springy push that will also help out.

The History of Massage Therapy

Massage therapists have enjoyed successful careers throughout human history; but it was not until modern times that comprehensive training programs in the field existed. With professional training, massage therapists can help clients work towards healthier, more relaxed bodies that are spiritually, emotionally, and physically balanced. Massage therapy certification is provided by reputable schools across the U.S.; classes cover new and old massage techniques.

Schools teach massage techniques from around the world. Swedish massage is the most popular, but classes in acupressure, chair massage, and deep tissue massage also instruct students in techniques for helping to heal the body and correct chronic conditions and injuries.

How did ancient massage therapy develop into modern techniques?

1500-3000 BCE

The Chinese produced some of the earliest texts used to treat illness with massage. Doctors combined their knowledge of medicine with methods of martial arts to produce techniques that coincided with the spiritual nature of Buddhism and Taoism. On the other side of the world, tomb paintings revealed that the ancient Egyptians had been practicing massage therapy as well. Reflexology was developed by the Egyptians around 2500 BCE. They believed that the human body reacts to applied pressure in certain places, such as in the feet, ears, and hands.

In India, massage techniques called Ayurveda were passed down through family lines and were not written into texts until 1500 BCE. Principles of Ayurveda teach that when a person is in harmony with natural surroundings, nature will begin to heal his or her body. Ayurveda takes into consideration each of the five senses to achieve this balance through methods of aromatherapy and massage.

500CE-1500 BCE

Japanese monks experienced Chinese practices of massage while learning about Buddhism during visits to China in 1000 BCE. Japanese would later transform what they learned into shiatsu. By stimulating the energy in the body, shiatsu strengthens the organs and helps them to be more resistant to illness. Shiatsu would become quite popular in the 20th century when Tokujiro Namikoshi coined the phrase and began a school to teach methods of shiatsu.

Around 800 BCE, the Greeks begin their own practices of massage, mainly focusing on its benefits for their athletes. They used massage to condition the body to prepare for the intense physical strain of Greek athletic competition. The Greeks also used massage to prepare for sleep and be met in their dreams by the gods they worshiped. Hippocrates, the 'father of modern medicine,' was the first physician to suggest that external factors affected the body and caused illness.

Galen, a physician who was born in Greece when it was a part of the Roman Empire, treated wounds gladiators acquired during their games. Afterward, he spent the rest of his life attending to the Imperial Court using methods of massage therapy in conjunction with the treatments he had learned by treating the gladiators. Many of the less wealthy people did not have the special attention of Galen, but could receive some of the healing effects of of massage in the public baths. The Roman citizens would bathe and receive a full body massage with aromatherapy oils.

1600-1900 CE

Massage therapy was largely unpracticed as more advanced medical pharmaceuticals and technologies were developed. It wasn't until Pehr Henrik Ling developed the techniques to treat himself for rheumatism that Swedish massage was developed -- which was known then as Swedish medical gymnastics. In 1813, he and a co-worker received government support to begin the Royal Gymnastic Central Institute in Stockholm. The goal of this institution was to help others use exercise and massage therapy to treat health conditions.

1900 CE to the present

Massage was used to treat and rehabilitate injured soldiers who fought in World War I and World War II. The physiotherapy clinics in the U.S. treated roughly 75,000 men who were disabled while fighting in World War I. During World War II, soldiers suffering from severe post-traumatic stress disorder were treated by massage therapy.

Throughout history, massage therapy has been used to treat ailments and physical stress. Today, massage therapy continues to be a popular treatment for correcting long-term health problems and illnesses.

Shorter is Better - Advantages to Shorter Massage Therapy School

Many debates have occurred on whether theoretical or practical massage therapy education is better. My preference is to get a good foundation but then go out and obtain some practical experience. You will learn much quicker about what works and what doesn't but also have enough theory and training to understand and properly execute the fundamentals.

Regulations by States, Counties, and Cities vary as to the amount of training required before being licensed. Our area, Sacramento County California, happens to require 125 hours at the present time and Healing Arts Institute offers a qualifying program to match that. There are other schools that offer 500 hour and even 1000 hour programs. At first glance it may appear that a longer program would be better, but there are several reasons why that may not be so.

One advantage to a shorter training is cost. Initial training is around $1375 for registration, tuition, and books on a 130 hour program. 500 hour programs typically start at $8000 or more. It is a large investment of time and money for entering a field that you may not be sure about pursuing. In a 126 hour training, the basics of massage are taught along with how to help people without causing harm. The real training happens when you begin work on paying clients. This is true whether your initial training is 126 hours or 1000 hours. There are some things that can only be learned in actual practice in the real world.

When you come back for more training you have the option of choosing which advanced classes you want to pursue. There are many different directions to go with massage therapy, and you will excel best pursuing your own area of interest. When you take advanced classes after working in the field you know what questions to ask so the training is more relevant to your needs. As you learn new techniques you think of clients you can use those techniques on. In this way your learning is much more complete than for someone who took 500 hours of classes before doing their first professional massage.

There are also tax advantages to taking a shorter training first. Most people cannot take a deduction on their income tax for the cost of their initial training in a new field. The exceptions would be for people working in related fields such as: a manicurist or cosmetologist who is taking this training so they can expand the services they offer to their existing clients, a chiropractic assistant who will be doing massage in the same clinic after graduating, or a nurse who is taking the training and receiving continuing education credits. If you take a shorter initial training and then start working in the field, you may be able to deduct the cost of any future classes as continuing education expenses. This can result in significant tax savings. Please note that I am not an accountant or tax advisor, and that tax laws change, so please check with an accountant or tax advisor before making any decisions based upon the tax advantages.

There are some states that require 500 hours of training to practice massage professionally. If you live or plan on working in one of those states you may wish to check with the state to see which schools would meet the requirement for that state. Also, not all states recognize training from schools in other states.

If you are in one of the following states you may wish to check with your state about licensing requirements:

Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. In other states, like California, licensing occurs at the city or county level where the business resides. You can check with your city or county clerk about licensing requirements. A listing of massage laws in the states that license massage therapists can be found in the book "Massage, A Career at Your Fingertips" by Martin Ashley, or on his website at: http://www.CareerAtYourFingertips.com

Regardless of the local requirements I believe it is best to establish a foundation of massage therapy knowledge and then apply your knowledge to practical experience. This is the best way to learn and get started in my opinion. After some "working world" experience you can return and take classes on techniques that you want to specialize in. These classes will also make sense to your experience and will be easily integrated into your practice.

Physiotherapy Options Following a Total Hip Replacement

Once your total hip replacement surgery is completed you can expect to remain in the hospital approximately three to four days. While in the hospital, you will be seen by a physical therapist for rehabilitation generally two times per day. After you have been medically cleared by your surgeon, you will be visited by a hospital discharge planner who among other things gets your initial physical therapy set up prior to discharge.

It is during this discharge process that you will find out how to proceed with your rehabilitation and what options you have available. Depending on your personal circumstances and living situation at home, you will be either referred to a skilled nursing facility, home health company or, out-patient physical therapy. For most individuals you will either go to a skilled nursing facility or home health during the acute stage.

Listed are three options that you may have at your disposal after total hip surgery.

1. Skilled Nursing Facilities. These are generally for seniors who will need more follow-up once they are discharged from the hospital. It will also depend on your living situation whether or not you will have someone home to assist you with your care. For seniors that live alone, or have spouses that are not able to provide the necessary care this is the optimal choice.

Here you will receive not only physical therapy twice a day but also get occupational therapy as well. The rehabilitation here is more intensive than you would get at home and, your stay in these facilities generally run from 20 to 30 days. By the time you get discharged from these facilities you are much stronger and more mobile. Your chances of returning home and being able to function without having a great deal of care needed are much better.

2. Home Health. This is your next step after coming home from either a skilled nursing facility or from the hospital. The physical therapy you receive here will generally consist of three visits per week for three to four weeks. More can be provided if you need it and, of course depending on your insurance coverage. Home health is for the individual that is either younger, or has a caregiver or spouse at home that can assist you with the day to day activities that are required.

Many individuals prefer the home health setting just for simple fact that they feel more comfortable in their own home, eating their own food and, sleeping in their own bed. Once your home health visits are up and if needed, you may progress to out-patient physical therapy.

3. Out-Patient Physical Therapy. This is for patients that are roughly three to six weeks out from their surgery and are advancing as expected in their rehabilitation. Here, in the out-patient clinic the rehabilitation is more advanced, there is more strengthening and standing balance activities that are introduced and the patients pain level is easily manageable with medication and rest.

Once someone receives out-patient physical therapy for another three to four weeks it is at this point once discharged, you are on your own.

The total amount of physical therapy and the options listed will be at the sole discretion of your surgeon, physical therapist, and yourself. Not everyone will follow the same path through rehabilitation, that will all depend on the individual and their progression in making the surgery a complete success.

Physical Therapy Schools

Physical therapy schools primarily teach you the clinical aspects of therapy, rehabilitation and skills to help people get better and recover from their ailments. What is lacking in the school curriculum is how to market your physical therapy practice and how to run your business.

Your physical therapy degree will not tell you how to get patients to come see you. Physical therapy degree programs don't provide the entry-level physical therapist with the proper skills to make their clinic successful. Getting good results with your patients is an important part of your clinical practice but marketing your clinic is equally as important and needs to be developed as much as the clinical side of the business.

It is important to market your physical therapy practice, whenever possible and make the time each week to develop marketing strategies and implement the marketing plans. You need to talk to and inform people about what you do and what kind of services your clinic offers. In doing so, you will at least keep people informed and increase the exposure of your clinic within the community.

The many different facets of marketing is an ongoing thing that needs constant development and implementation. Marketing is not a one-time thing and expect the physical therapy practice to boom. There are so many different aspects of marketing and a physical therapist must utilize the different types of marketing and promotional practices. You need to find out what kind of marketing will work for your practice. Some therapy clinics spend lots of money on marketing each month, while other don't spend any and they both get the same results.

Don't get caught up with doing the same old marketing that other therapists are doing. Many therapists print expensive colorful brochures, prescription pads and have them sent to doctor's offices. While the doctor's just put your beautiful expensive marketing pads on a big stack of other equally expensive pads from other therapists like you.

Many therapists set up lunches for doctor's offices and try to entice them to send you more patient referrals. However, this practice is not very effective as the doctors are use to the expensive trips and incentives that the pharmaceutical companies are promoting to them. It is hard for the entry-level therapist to compete with so many incentives by the big companies.

There are so many therapists out there doing the same thing. Try to be different and make yourself memorable and stand out from the rest of your contemporaries. One thing you can do is to specialize and make your clinic offer services that are unique and different.

Therapists need to try to upgrade and learn effective marketing skills either through night school, mentoring with other successful therapy practices, or just talking to successful advertising and marketing professionals. Asking professionals in marketing is one of the best ways to gain that edge over your contemporaries and make yourself stand out.

Physical therapy schools need to arm their therapists with more marketing and promotional education, so they can develop and effectively market their clinical skills and also help promote the overall physical therapy rehabilitation field.

Benefits Of Massaging A Penis With Herbal Penis Massage Oils

Massaging a penis has been found to be very beneficial in treating problem of weak erections in men either due to getting old or due to any other deficiency in the body. It is well-known that a penis appears smaller if a person is not able to get full erections. It is the flow of blood that helps penis become stiff and hard, and it depends on the health of veins and tissues of the penile area on how long they can hold this blood together to perform sexual intercourse.

These days there are many products being sold in the market which claim to increase the size of penis as well as quality of erections, but their results have been found to be of mediocre nature and not long-lasting. As well as there are side effects associated with these products which may even incur permanent damage to penis, although some companies marketing these products still claim that they are safe to use and do not cause any type of side effects.

One of the oldest techniques of improving blood circulation to all parts of the body is massage therapy. Massaging a penis is helpful in increasing its size as well as helps in attaining fuller and bigger erection by enhancing the flow of blood to the penile area and improving the holding power of veins and tissues.

Some experts claim that penis does not have any muscles hence massaging it would be of no use. However some evidences have shown that massaging a penis increases blood flow to the penile area and increases testosterone levels and makes the veins and tissues of the area stronger helping men achieve longer lasting erections. Experts have developed massaging techniques for penis which give positive results in a very short period of time. Jelking, ballooning and milking are the most popular methods of massaging which men mostly prefer. All these help in enhancing the length and girth of your penis by helping the body full erections.

Massaging your penis regularly with cream, gel or herbal oils will make the penis stronger and will hold itself longer in the battle field. Regular massage will help in bringing in more blood to the reproductive organs hence also helping in enhanced libido, more intensity and quick erections after one orgasm.

The most important thing is applying the right technique and using a good herbal product which is free from any type of side effects. The effects of using herbs is long-lasting and almost everyone gets benefited from their use.

One such popular herbal product that is used by men worldwide is Vigrx erection oil. It contains a combination of some of the best potent herbs helpful in improving the overall sexual health of a person, as well as there is no other herbal penis massage oil that has so many positive customer reviews for it spread all over the internet as well as in some popular men's magazines.

While visiting the products website one can safely assume that the company is fully confident of its product as it is offering a full money back guarantee if their oil does not produce the desired results.

While ordering online one should first check the contact details of the company, if it is not offering any type of contact details then one should be wary of buying from them.

From what i found from Vigrx oil website they are offering live help to all its customers, so that all the questions are answered instantly.

One drawback i can see is that Vigrx oil's price is a little bit on the higher side but the company is offering a free tube with the first order, so it is winning deal all the way.

Five Styles of Massage Therapy

Within the province of Ontario there are a number of recognized kinds of massage therapy. If we had to create a list of the five popular and profitable from a massage therapists point of view what would make the list? Here are the five in no particular order.

1. Sports

Considered one of the fastest growing areas of practice in Ontario and Canada as a whole, sports massage focus' on training for athletic performance and recovery. This style isn't limited to the pro's however, many athletes across the province, whether they be professional hockey players or weekend golfers, can benefit sports massage.

2. Relaxation and Stress Reduction

This would have to still be considered the most popular massage in the province. This style is practiced at spas, resorts, client's homes and business offices. You could also consider this a wellness massage.

3. Pamper

A relative to relaxation and stress reduction massage, a pamper massage is typically given in a spa, beauty salon or in a private home. The tools usually include various oils, light music, salts, etc. This differs from stress reduction in the sense that more emphasis is placed upon "new age" techniques and ambiance.

4. Chiropractic Adjunct

A highly coveted position with the massage therapy community due to the high level of pay, therapists can work together with chiropractic offices and give body part specific massages. Usually the chiropractor will give the RMT a sheet outlining where and for what duration a massage should be given to a patient.

5. Medical

Medical massage deals with working with pain, pathologies and injury recovery. While it this type is named "medical massage" many of the techniques can be carried over and adopted for use with non-medical clients. Typically medical style is given by order of a prescription, in a physiotherapy office, retirement/care home or in a hospital.

That wraps up our look at the five popular forms of Massage Therapy, especially in Ontario Canada.

Learning How to Give a Wonderful Massage

Massage is a therapeutic sensual stimulation to rejuvenate and enhance circulation as well as to relax the muscles. In order to determine how to give a massage you should identify that this is a completely structured and controlled procedure that should be adopted only after the proper know-how of its norms and specifications. In order to massage someone properly you can opt for some massage school where you can get the needed credentials as well as the methodologies to improvise the right kind of understanding of how to give a massage. There are various methods that a person can acquire to learn massaging just by a bit of research work and this includes proper analysis of online videos as well as concerned tutorials. These demonstrate easy methods of giving a massage that can be implemented at home with no difficulty.

You should always take a small pause before beginning and try to inhale and breathe out so that you gain a better control over your senses and rejuvenate the sensual connectivity. Swedish genre of massage is perhaps the most common tool for getting the right techniques in massage.

Making use of your forearm and using the flat section of the hand is a great way to give a massage. You should become skilled at generating long strokes as these are the key specifications of this technique. By this act the impact of your stimulation reaches muscular depths and enhances circulation.

You should make sure that the person is lying straight and relaxed preferably with their back facing you. Another interesting aspect of how to give a massage is to know the place where you need to position yourself. The right place perhaps would be near the forehead of the subject. Start with the shoulders and move down the length of the spine. Massage increases the circulation of blood from heart to the skin cells. This brings considerably higher content of oxygen to the cells. Nervous system is also catered to by a proper massage and by relaxing your mind and sensitive body parts like neck and spine, Massage benefits are seemingly unparalleled.

One of the other prominent Massage benefits is that it heals largest body organ, the skin in a very acceptable format. Massage increases the circulation of blood from heart to the skin cells. This brings considerably higher content of oxygen to the cells. Nervous system is also catered to by a proper massage and by relaxing your mind and sensitive body parts like neck and spine, Massage benefits are seemingly unparalleled.

Treating blood pressure, stress hormones and anxiety are also some of the Massage benefits. Massage helps in balancing the hormonal and chemical balance in the body and Massage benefits also incorporate improvement your sleep quality. Aroma massage is a common genre of massage therapy and this massage benefits by removing all your mental stress, and reenergizing the body. The massage involves the uses of some essential oils like lavender.

6 Things You Must Know Before Becoming a Physical Therapist

Many people do not really know how to differentiate a physical therapist from personal trainer or exercise instructor. In their point of view, these 3 professions are the same. In fact, they are totally different in terms of level of education and scope of work. If you have the intention to become a qualified therapist, here are some important things you need to know before making your final decision.

• In order to get involved in this field, you need a master degree in physical therapy. If you have no idea how to select the right school, you are advised to browse through the website of the American Physical Therapy Association to find out the list of accredited schools and their admission information.


• If you are not sure about the prospects of this career, you are advised to consult the local hospitals, rehabilitation centers or any private therapy practice about their hiring forecasts. From there, you are able to decide whether this is a rewarding field or not.


• You have to bear in mind that this line is highly competitive. As a result, you are reminded to maintain an excellent grade during your study.


• Before getting into this line, you should start enhancing your interpersonal skills. Be prepared that you are required to advise frustrated patients and family members from time to time in your future workplace.


• Before starting your career, you must pass the mandatory licensure examination once you have completed your master degree. It is important for you to check your state's exact licensing requirements before you graduate.


• Remember that you have the freedom to choose which areas you would like to specialize. You can work towards a specialty in neurology, pediatrics, woman's health or sports medicine.

Working as a physical therapist is challenging. You need to make sure that you have reached the competency level required before you start working.

Massage Therapy Certification - A Millennial Career for the 21st Century

A significant amount of news coverage has been given to "Generation Y," or "The Millennial Generation" - most often considered to be individuals born between 1980 and 1994. Growing up in the 21st century entails greater privilege and greater hardship than previous generations have faced. One thing's for sure - members of this generation are needed to fill critical healthcare job gaps, one of which just might be massage therapy.

Massage therapy is recognized by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as a growing career, and one with benefits beyond the immediately obvious. The massage therapy education trains students to have a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy and physiology, which is essential for effective massage treatment. The scientific background of the massage therapy certification program allows students of massage to understand how different body parts and systems work together - and how, if one system is out of whack, a massage client can feel ill or out-of-sorts all over.

Schools such as the Certified Careers Institute, with campus locations in Clearfield and Salt Lake City, Utah, offer massage therapy education that prepares students to sit for a massage therapy certification. This education is popular with the younger generation, because it leads to a career with worker-defined office conditions. Young workers can choose what type of massage therapy they will specialize in, decorate their offices however they choose, and determine what kinds of massage oils, wraps, and techniques they will use on their clients. This generation of young adults, who grew up with technology, views "cool" careers like massage therapy in a positive light.

It's a good thing, too. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that as Gen Y's parents - the Baby Boomer generation - age, there will be an increased need for professional massage therapists to administer their services as supplementary medical therapies. Generations X and Y enjoy massage therapy at work or after-hours. Today's jobs can demand long hours, and some people must work two jobs to be able to meet their bills; so, massage therapy is a helpful accessory to a demanding career. It can also become a great career for a Gen Y student. This generation, more so than older counterparts, places emphasis on work-life balance, and many enjoy more flexible working arrangements, including flex time and telecommuting. Some massage therapists can set their own hours and delineate their own working conditions, making massage therapy certification an appealing career choice for the under-30 set.

This kind of treatment can also be beneficial to individuals who suffer from depression, isolation, or Seasonal Affective Disorder (side effects, after all, of our highly interactive -but ultimately, human-contact deprived - wired society). Many people eschew drug therapies for mental health issues - after all, modern antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs have gotten negative press because of certain deleterious side effects. Massage therapy enables total body relaxation, which can effectively boost a person's mood. In fact, certified massage therapists themselves can benefit from the health-conscious outlook their career field demands. Individuals who sell health services can market their services more credibly if they are actually healthy individuals, themselves - meaning, for example, that they eat a healthy diet, follow an exercise regimen, and refrain from using drugs or alcohol.

Millennials' Boomer parents can benefit from massage therapy. Adult-onset (Type II) diabetes and heart disease are two major killers of older Americans - and the Boomer generation is aging and quickly closing in on their retirement years. The massage therapy education, such as that provided by the Certified Careers Institute's Clearfield and Salt Lake City, Utah schools, teaches students massage techniques that can be beneficial in treating conditions affecting older adults: diabetes, arthritis, gout, and even cancer. Boomers, too, face career stress - after all, their generation was strongly affected by corporate mergers and downsizing. Massage therapy can help them shed the health-negative stresses of the modern workplace.

Finally - and perhaps most importantly - massage therapy education and certification addresses some of the commonest woes of 21st century higher learning and job market conditions. College tuition has soared over the past decade, necessitating that some Millennials take out substantial private loans to pay for their educations, and that others forgo college altogether. And, the modern job market is a volatile entity, with technological advances, outsourcing, and downsizing threatening every industry from computer sciences to journalism. Students today must make difficult choices when deciding upon careers - and, many of those choices come with sacrifices.

The massage therapy education, by contrast, is a relatively simple process - programs like Certified Careers Institute's can take just weeks - and has fewer course requirements than a traditional four-year degree does. Therefore, acquiring a massage therapy certification is cheaper than getting a college degree. And, this particular career is expected to grow as it is increasingly recognized in the allied health field - making it a smart choice for people who want job security.

It's no wonder, with all of these positives - cool job description, health-positive benefits, job stability, and a low-cost education - that Generation Y is turning massage therapy into a career of the future.

Healing Hands Massage Therapy & Healing Touch Therapy - Bringing the Whole Body Into Alignment

Healing hands massage therapy brings together a whole host of massage techniques to help those who have gone through serious injury. When the body experiences trauma, there is often inflammation and damage done to ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Nerves often become unresponsive for a time. When a person tries to get back to normal life, they often find that their body is not cooperating. That is where this form of massage therapy comes into play. With a variety of techniques, many people experienced great success with healing touch therapy in the fourth largest city in Texas, Austin.

One of the techniques often used in healing hands massage therapy is deep tissue massage. This technique works on relieving tension and stiffness in the deepest layers of muscle. By using slower and deeper strokes, this technique works to loosen muscles and bring oxygen back in. By releasing toxins with this technique, the therapist enhances healing. Another technique often used, in healing touch therapy, is Swedish massage. This is probably the most familiar to most people. With the use of gentle strokes, friction, and tapping, this form of massage helps to warm up tissues and pull toxins out of the muscles. It gently increases blood circulation and stretches tendons and ligaments.

If the injury occurred while playing sports or doing other physically intensive activities, sports massage is another form in healing hands massage therapy. This form of massage helps decrease recovery time by eliminating toxins and encouraging blood flow into the injured area. Sports therapy often focuses on muscle injury prevention and helps with muscle injury healing. Healing touch therapy usually involves other techniques that help realign the body, work different muscle groups, and isolate injuries so they can heal. They also work to promote joint flexibility and to increase motion range. With this, it helps keep the body working, as it should.

Healing hands massage therapy focuses on bringing the body back to health, and keeping it that way for the long run. It is important to find a therapist fully trained with healing touch therapy. Not every massage therapist knows how to perform this type of massage. Someone who is untrained can do more damage than good. If you have experienced an injury that rest doesn't seem to heal, a visit to massage therapist may be just the right thing to do. Many people report that massage therapy helps speed up their recovery time. It also helps prevent injuries in the future.

For those working to improve their health, healing hands massage therapy is a good tool to utilize. By lowering your stress levels and getting rid of toxins, you help your body heal faster. It helps promote your immune system that helps you get over illnesses and injuries must faster. As your whole body improves, your overall health improves as well. Healing touch therapy realigns your body's joints and muscles into their natural positions. With added flexibility, your energy levels will soar. Why take chances with your health? Get in touch with a professional right now.

The 4 Primary Reasons Massage Therapists Get Injured

The average life of a professional massage therapist is 3 to 5 years. Admittedly, many therapists move into complimentary fields of healing or change professions for external reasons, but too many therapists injure themselves through incorrect technique and personal neglect.

The 4 reasons listed below are the primary causes of injury to massage therapists and should be kept in mind at all times.

1. Table Height

The first practical lesson you learn about massage is to set the correct table height. Having correct posture is essential to avoid injury. If the table is too low, lumber muscles remain engaged for the duration of the treatment and if it is to high you need to use extra arm and hand strength to make up for the lack of body weight you can rely on for added pressure. You never know the body width of a new client, so don't be afraid to adjust the table height when the client enters the room. Once they are on the table it is too late.

2. Using Thumbs

Many massage schools still teach Swedish techniques where thumbs play a major role in the sequence of strokes. Circular thumbs feel great - but it is the quickest way to develop a repetitive strain injury or carpal tunnel syndrome. Using thumbs in Deep Tissue massage is also a great way to 'feel' trigger points, but the temptation to apply excessive and prolonged pressure through the thumbs must be resisted. Trigger Pointing tools are available from all good massage equipment suppliers.

Therapists should be taught flat palm and forearm techniques to us instead of thumbs. Sore thumbs would be the biggest single reason that therapists must stop working, and many of the injuries are life long.

3. Massaging Above Their Weight

Clients who receive regular massage get bored with light weight relaxation massages. They develop a strong desire for hard massages - often subscribing to the theory of No Pain - No Gain. Not every therapist can consistently massage at full pressure. Taller therapists or those with greater body and muscle mass are better equipped to deliver hard massages. Often female therapists feel challenged to match the pressure of their male counterparts and although they can often do it - it's a question of longevity. If you are of smaller frame you should look to gain clients who appreciate a different style of treatment that is easier on your body. Therapist should pass on clients who are not suited for them.

4. Working When They Should Be Resting

As most massage therapists are contractor, only getting paid for the treatments they do, it is natural to work extremely hard when the work is offered as quiet times are inevitable. It is important to set yourself limits on the amount of treatments you do, and to monitor your physical and mental condition as you are working. When your body is physically tired your posture suffers and injury is more likely. When you are mentally exhausted your mind wanders during treatment, and again, correct posture is often neglected.

Receiving regular massage is also an important tip for therapist longevity. Not only does it keep you in physical balance, it reminds you of why you got into massage in the first place, and you may even pick up some new techniques!

Massage is a very rewarding career for those who are drawn to it. Helping others deal with stress and pain is a gift beyond measure. Unfortunately too many therapists fall victim to one of the above situations and their career is ended prematurely. Many of the injuries remain for life - even though the massaging stops. Being aware of the above factors is of vital importance for all massage therapists.

Essential Benefits of Buying Your Own Massage Chair

Today's fast-paced world, even with also the increasing popularity of alternative relaxation exercises, techniques and therapies, the kneading, rolling and stretching actions of a massage therapy still remains to be the most used reliever for our body's accumulated stress and tension brought about by the demands of today's busy world.

However, due to time and financial constraints, more and more people, especially those who are busy, have turned to automated home massage chairs as an alternative to experiencing some of the benefits of massage therapy from the comforts of their own home.

Nowadays, a massage chair like that massage chair in Melbourne has quickly become a worthwhile and beneficial addition to everyday living.

Aside from being a more preferable replacement for human massage therapists for their convenience, privacy, cost-effectiveness, time efficiency and portability, massage chairs are also fast becoming popular because of these other massage chair benefits such as:

1. Relieves Neck, Back and Whole Body Pain

Ergonomically designed, a chair massage contains internal electronic motors and gears designed to massage, with a focus on the head, neck, shoulders, back, arms and hands, the person sitting in them. These kneading and rolling vibrations tends to ease or loosen tight and strained muscles, thus alleviating pain.

According to a 2003 study, it showed that massage therapy had been find out to have produced better results, reducing the need for painkillers by 36% in comparison with other therapies, including acupuncture and spinal modification.

2. Lessens Anxiety

A massage chair has been proven to stimulate the release of the body's feel-good endorphins, reducing levels of stress and leveling emotions out. Also according to a review of more than a dozen massage studies, it was observed that after researchers measured the stress hormone cortisol participants before and immediately after massage, it was found that massage lessened cortisol levels by up to 53%.

Cortisol is a type of hormone secreted into the bloodstream, and has been termed "the stress hormone" because it's also secreted in higher levels during our body's 'fight or flight' response to stress. And if there are higher and more prolonged levels of cortisol in the bloodstream (like those associated with chronic stress), it has been shown to be responsible for several stress-related changes in the body.

3. Reduces Blood Pressure

According to a research, data showed that hypertensive patients who have been receiving a three 10-minute back massages a week had demonstrated a drop in their blood pressure, compared to patients who simply relaxed without a massage.

4. Increases Energy and Stamina

A chair massage works in kneading the soft tissues in your head, neck, shoulders, back, arms and hands. It will then help increase nourishment and exchange of fluids between those tissues which can result in an increased circulation, all of which in turn help to promote general good health throughout the body.

5. Improves Blood Flow

A massage chair's kneading action can also help to dilate the blood vessels throughout your body; thus, increasing circulation of blood through the body.

With these several valuable massage chair benefits, it's no wonder an increasing number of people are opting to go for this type of chair as a potential replacement for human massage therapists.

Medical Sonography Schools Are There to Help You

If you are looking for a career in the field of Sonography, there are many medical Sonography schools available to provide you with the education for the same. In the medical profession, the need of good Sonographers is increasing day by day. This is the main reason why more and more people are proffering this career.

Basically, Sonography is commonly known as Ultra Sonography, ultrasound scan and sonogram. This is the process which uses the sound waves with higher frequency to produce dynamical images of tissues, blood flow or organs in the body. This process is very useful to examine various parts of the body like breast, abdomen, reproductive system of women, blood vessels, heart and prostate.

This has been increasingly used in the treatment and sensing of heart diseases as well as vascular diseases that can lead to some other serious diseases. It is also very helpful to know about the reasons of the heart attack. This helps guide the fine needle, tissue biopsy which helps take the sample of cells from the organ of lab testing. One of the most common examples of use of Sonography is the test for cancer in the breast tissue. As compared to the x-rays, this is totally free from any harmful radiations to get the imaging modality.

To become a Sonographer, you need to qualify the medical Sonography school. The main function of these schools is to train you to face all the challenges that come in your way. Here you will also be taught about all the facts and techniques required to become a Sonographer.

In fact, they should be a highly qualified and skilled professional. Because, he/she will be responsible to obtain and record accurate patient history, perform diagnostic procedure and obtain images. He is also responsible to analyze technical information and use independent judgment to recognize the need to extend the scope of the procedure according to the diagnostic findings. Medical Sonography schools help you understand all the basic techniques of this profession.

Other responsibilities are he/she has to provide an oral or written summary of a particular patient, work in a team with other medical professionals in a hospital. They must have the technical knowledge to operate the machines. All this is taught in the medical schools.

The course of a Sonographer depends on whether you are going for a degree or a certificate course. It starts from one year certificate course to four year degree course. After completing the course, a Sonographer can earn a very handsome amount of money.

To get the list of all the leading Medical Sonography Schools, you can take help of the Internet. All you need to have is intelligence, commitment and ability to work hard to become a star in this world. So, go ahead and take a leap to reach your dream career.

The Two Types of Massage Therapy Schools and Courses in Ontario

Are you interested in becoming a massage therapist in the province of Ontario? Well if you are then you'll need to do something that most find unpleasant. You'll have to go to school! But it isn't as simple as applying to a college or a university. Due to the nature of the industry massage therapy degree's aren't earned in a traditional fashion. Here's how to go about selecting a learning institution.

Graduating massage therapy students become RMT's or registered massage therapists. This degree or license is handed out by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) . Now I'm probably getting ahead of myself by talking about graduating students. This is the 'end game'. I'm showing this first to because the CMTO tests students that have passed accredited classes throughout the province. The classes themselves are available through through two types of learning institutions.

The first of these institutions would be traditional colleges (like Humber in Toronto). These will take place on your standard college campus and all will be OSAP (Ontario Students Assistance Program) eligible. Most college courses are three years, although some schools do offer two year accelerated courses (with no summer break). The second type of school that is certified by CMTO are private colleges/schools. These include schools such as Everest (formerly Devry). Some but not all of these schools are OSAP eligible. Its best to contact the schools themselves to find out if they are Ontario student funding eligible.

The costs, time length, school prestige of these two different types of massage schools vary. Personal preference on which aspects are important to a student vary. But one thing is for sure, upon successful completion of a course from either type, a student will write the same CMTO test, which is the final step before becoming a registered massage therapist in the province of Ontario.

Massage at Work - A Superior Benefit For Employees

Getting a massage at work is rapidly becoming a highly sought after employee benefit in the UK. For both employees and employers, massage therapy at work has important benefits that can increase productivity and help retain valued workers. Here's some information about office massage that you might find interesting.

How Getting A Massage in the Workplace is Different

Massage in the workplace is somewhat different from traditional massage. First, you don't have to undress. Second, it's performed in a special chair, not a table, as in traditional massage. Third, chair massage at work does not use any creams or oils. To get a massage in the office, the employee simply sits in the comfortable massage chair and leans forward, placing their head in the padded cradle. The cradle has a cover that's changed after every massage.

Benefits of Massage at Work

Since many massage therapists are specially trained for chair massage, you can expect benefits that are practically identical to traditional massage. The only exception is that chair massage focuses on the upper body, including the arms and hands. This makes workplace massage an ideal tool for helping to relieve and prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition that effects many office workers. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) symptoms include weakness, soreness and tenderness of the muscles of the middle finger, index finger and thumb due to pressure on a nerve in the wrist. It's thought that 3% of women and 2% of men will be diagnosed with CTS, so massage therapy in the office will help prevent and alleviate symptoms of CTS. Other benefits of massage at work include temporary relief of tension headaches, neck pain and back pain.

Testimonials - Successful Massage Programs in Successful Companies

There is a growing number of companies, big and small, that believe in the benefits of massage therapy at work and offer it to their employees on a regular basis. The list is impressive and includes companies like Eddie Bauer, one of the 100 best companies to work for, according to Fortune Magazine. These companies recognize that massages at work will help lower stress, improve productivity and reduce absenteeism. An article in the magazine American Psychologist, the official journal of the prestigious American Psychological Association, discussed the results of a study in which one group of employees were given a 15-minute rest and another group were given a 15-minute massage. The study found that the massage group "performed significantly better on complicated tasks like math problems".

Workplace Massage Is Both Flexible and Beneficial

Many companies in the UK utilise massage at work for special events like employee appreciation days or in-house health fairs. Massage in the workplace is also highly customisable and can include relaxing music and aromatherapy. Also, companies have learned that massage improves creative thinking and relieves fatigue. Workplace massage is a benefit that's well received by employees while remaining cost-effective for employers.

Physical Therapy Services

Physical therapy services are offered in physical therapy clinics all across the country. These services usually comprise of therapeutic programs customized to each patient's needs for the treatment of physical dysfunctions and prevention of further deterioration of certain body parts due to disease, injury or aging. Other programs may also comprise of supervised weight loss, physical strengthening or conditioning, and functional re-training.

The different types of physical therapy programs are supervised by licensed physical therapists. It is their job to evaluate and prescribe appropriate therapeutic measures according to their patient findings. Many times, therapists find themselves teaching patients basic motor skills like how to get up and out of bed then sitting on a chair from this position, walking with crutches on uneven ground, and retraining patients how to write or walk again either with damaged, but recovering limbs or with prosthetics.

The physical therapist needs to take an accurate and detailed patient history to be able to properly evaluate the problem. This includes performing certain function tests and taking meticulous measurements to assess the problem. Some examples of tests could be: coordination tests, joint motion, muscle strength, balance, flexibility, sensory and neurological tests, palpation, postural screening, movement analysis and other specific tests designed for specific problems. After evaluating the results of these tests, the therapist will then come up with the best treatment plan to help the patient recover and attain his goals of overcoming whatever dysfunction is present.

Part of physical therapy services include teaching patients how to operate devices designed to assist in their mobility like wheelchairs, crutches or other equipment at work or at home to allow patients as much independence as possible. Therapists check out the patient's environments and advice them on the best, safest and most convenient ways to confer their surroundings for their utmost productivity.

Some of the treatment protocols used in these programs include electrical stimulation, hot and cold packs, therapeutic exercises, ultrasound treatments, training in functional activities, traction, whirlpools, UV rays, infrared, TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation), intermittent compression pumps and more. There must be regular weekly treatment sessions for the program to take effect, as well as concerted effort and participation on the patient's part.

Other useful techniques to aid in recovery include massage, neuro-development, and joint mobilization to stimulate soft tissue flexibility and maintain joint mobility. As the patient progresses, therapists continue to apply the best therapeutic concepts and treatments as appropriate at that stage of the recovery.

Physical therapists also educate their patients on ways to prevent the problem from recurring and ways to manage the current problem. Many times, prevention is as simple as a correction in posture, body movement, and doing stretches, which most patients are usually unaware of, therefore, it is the therapist's responsibility to bring these to their attention through instructions or handouts.

It is undeniable that physical therapy services play an important role in today's management of health and well being. However, more than this, is the skill and knowledge that a physical therapist brings to be able to use these services in the best way possible for the patient concerned in order to bring about their recovery and healing.

Warning - Before You Become a Massage Therapist

I was in the last week of my Remedial Massage course. The teacher stood before the class and said, "Now, the average life of a therapist is between two and five years!"

What? I've just spent 6 months and over ten thousand dollars for a new career - and statistically I'm going to last just 2 years!

The class of 20 discussed it and we all decided that we would prove it wrong. We all planned to be successful and rich therapists living a great life, choosing the hours we want to work and the clients we wanted to work with.

Well... two years have now passed since that day. And the results are surprising - considering we were all so committed the proving the statistics wrong.

In brief, one classmate wouldn't give up their night filling job and commit to her new career. She didn't wake until lunch and never got going. Another was waiting until they could afford the best massage table on the market, and never got going. Two others went straight back to the jobs they had before studying as they liked the security. Another young man worked at a 5 star clinic for a few weeks before realizing he didn't like feeling 'oily' all the time. Two more injured their lower backs from wrong table heights and bad posture and found it too hard to continue. One by one I ticked them from the list.

Two years later and of the twenty in my class, only four of us are still massaging. I have just spoken with them before writing this article, and 'They all love what they are doing - but haven't yet met their financial goals.' We thought we would be able to choose the hours and clients we wanted, but the reality is that we are at the beck and call of anyone who calls.

Looking at it now with perspective, the four of us still working as full time massage therapists were the natural healers of the class. We have warm hands when we work and really care for the well-being of all those we meet. Not that the others in my class were not nice people... maybe not just natural healers.

I just wanted to give a quick warning to those considering the profession. Don't believe the brochures without doing your own research. Be sure to get several massages and talk with therapists in your area before you sign.

My class thought we would prove the statistics wrong. We didn't.

What Is Indonesian Massage Therapy?

Indonesian massage therapy is an oriental type of massage method that uses both traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic method in healing, revitalizing, calming and soothing a patient's body. Much like its Asian style counterparts, it also uses special massage oils and scented oils on the patient's skin for several benefits on the skin as well as for making the work more convenient for the masseuse.

This type of massage therapy was brought to Indonesia by traveling Buddhist monks which later on passed the medical care to practicing monks who developed and improved it by adding herbal medicines inspired by the ancient Chinese. Indonesian massage therapy traces its roots back to 4000 years ago which was then used as the main source of medical care for the public. Even royalties during that time uses this type of natural treatment for passing time and as a way to relax and relieve stress.

A common belief and practice of Oriental massage therapies is that the body has life force or energy within the vessel. These energies should be kept in constant good flow and should be in balance at all times to ensure health and prevent sickness due to the fall of the immune system of the body. In case of imbalanced energy within the patient's body, realignment, balancing and breaking of clogged energy path ways are the methods of retrieving the lost healthy condition.

If you are into deep massage therapy, this type of massage method fits your taste as it relies upon deep pressure massage in breaking formed tissues that have stiffened on the muscle tissues of a patient's body. These tensed muscles if not treated will result to muscle spasms, sprains and cramps as well as stress and the stiffening of the whole body. It will also limit the flexibility and mobility of the muscle and joints of the body. Addressing the problem helps reduce certain risks and promotes many beneficial improvements in the health of the patient. Deep thumb pushing using acupressure technique on the different vital parts of the body helps in stimulating and relaxing the soft tissues within the patient's body. Acupressure is known to be a type of technique that tackles the very essential areas within the body. These key areas are also known as meridian points more similar on acupuncture treatments, however without the good use of thin needles of the acupuncture method. Expect an increase and improvement in the circulation of blood and the lymphatic system. A good Indonesian massage therapy does not only release stress but also triggers the self-healing capabilities of the human body allowing it to recover much quicker than the normal rate. Regular sessions of this type of therapeutic massage do not only improve your overall health but also leave you feeling much better as you get relaxed, energized and rejuvenated.

Prior to a massage therapy session, make some preparations by asking your doctor's comments and opinions regarding the massage therapy. Check out for skin allergies or reaction from massage oils. Doing this will not only keep you from any problem but will also ensure you a successful and pleasurable massage session.

PTA and OTA Jobs Are a Good Introduction Into the Healthcare Industry

Anyone interested in working in the healthcare industry will find a vast number of career options. Having the skill and knowledge to assist people with reintegrating into a normal routine after an injury requires dedication to providing patients with the proper care for a smooth transition. Occupational therapy assistants (OTA) and physical therapy assistants (PTA) are valued professionals in healthcare that contributes to a patient's well-being.

In OTA jobs, individuals provide rehabilitative services to patients who suffer from physical, mental or developmental impairments. Occupational therapy assistants follow a treatment plan with the patient that is developed by an occupational therapist. The activities vary depending on the type and extent of the injury. The OTA monitors the patient's progress and updates the occupational therapist who determines if changes to the plan are necessary.

Physical therapy assistants are supervised by physical therapists, and have similar job duties; however, the difference is the type of therapy a patient receives. Typical days may include electrical stimulation, massages, ultrasounds and various exercises. Most PTA jobs also require performing clerical duties such as ordering supplies, answering phones, and submitting insurance forms.

In order to qualify for OTA jobs, you must receive training from an accredited school and sit for the national certifying exam. The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) has 135 occupational therapy assistant programs nationwide. The two year program includes occupational therapy courses in mental health, adult physical disabilities, pediatrics, and gerontology. Sixteen weeks of supervised field work is also required. PTA jobs require an associate's degree in most states. The American Physical Therapy Association's Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education is the accrediting body for the 223 physical therapy assistant programs. Just like the training for occupational therapy assistants, the PTA program is divided into academic courses and clinical experience. PTAs also receive CPR and other first aid certifications.

The employment outlook for OTA and PTA jobs is expected to increase over the next 10 years as the restrictions for therapy services reimbursements ease. OTA travel jobs are also increasing in demand because of the need for patient facilities to maintain operational costs. OTA salary ranges from $41,000 to over $53,000 per year. The salary ranges for a PTA are the same. Additionally, both jobs require a physically fit person, so expect frequent stooping, bending, kneeling and long periods of standing as you assist patients during treatment sessions. The work might be physically demanding, but it is mentally rewarding as you watch a patient's progress improve over a period of time.

Physical Therapy Students Have A Wide Variety Of Master's Programs To Choose From

Having a bachelor's degree in physical therapy is not what it used to be. Since the 1990's, more and more people are feeling the pressure to advance their education beyond a bachelor's degree in order to reap the benefits of higher income and better job opportunities. A master's degree is becoming the new standard in this profession.

One kind of master's degree in physical therapy that is available is referred to as a direct entry master's program. This option is ideal for people who have a bachelor's degree that is not necessarily related to the field directly. Direct entry master's degree programs are typically two years and are broken down into two segments. The first year, and segment, is characterized by the emphasis on classroom study and understanding of core concepts essential to be a successful professional. The next year second segment is dedicated to field work where, in a clinical setting, students practice physical therapy.

Another kind of master's program available is called a transitional program. Students of physical therapy who already have a bachelor's degree in the area should sign up for this program. A transitional program was created to prevent physical therapists that already have a firm understanding of basic concepts from having to sit through material they already know.

Physical therapists have a variety of options when it comes to choosing the setting they would like to work in. One of the most common settings you will find these professionals in is a hospital. Within the hospital's therapist program you will find various subcategories, as there is a different kind of therapy for different parts of the body.

Another common place where physical therapists often work is outpatient clinics. Outpatient clinics can be privately or national owned. Most outpatient clinics specialize in sports rehabilitation and medicine.

Hospitals for rehabilitation or rehabilitation centers are another place that it is common to find these professionals. Among physical therapists, you will find speech therapists and recreational therapists, among other types of therapists. The reason for the variety of therapists within this setting is due to the nature of rehabilitation hospitals and clinics, which is to treat the patient in their entirety. Patients in need of more than one type of therapy may come to one of these facilities seeking help.

Working in a school is another option for a physical therapist because school systems often have a need for one. A benefit of a school position for a physical therapist is having the summer off. Also, home health agencies employ physical therapists to send into the homes of patients who are unable to leave their houses.

Massage Therapy Can Reduce Stress And Improve Performance

Massage therapy offers one of the most effective and natural ways to treat the body and the mind. By working with the body's soft tissue, a massage therapist helps people maintain, augment, rehabilitate and develop physical function. The therapeutic effects of massage therapy and its importance in improving health are well known. As it acts directly on the nervous, muscular, circulatory, and immune (lymphatic) systems, several health problems can be addressed and treated with this form of therapy.

Today, massage has become a part of the training regime for most professional athletes. It helps them improve their performance and also helps them cope with stress and pressure. In fact, even working professionals who have a hectic lifestyle with a number of physically and mentally taxing tasks on their agenda along with long hours at work will benefit immensely from massage therapy. Stress also increases the risk of heart disease and massage therapy is one of the most effective as well as enjoyable ways to combat and reduce stress.

Sometimes, even an injury that may seem minor may affect a person's ability to remain independent and physically active. One of the best ways to ensure that the condition does not become chronic is through massage, which prevents a disastrous outcome. It also promotes an overall sense of well being by relaxing the body and helps in pain management and control.

Massage therapy alleviates or prevents pain and there are different massage therapy techniques that are recommended specifically for tight and tense or sore muscles and tissues. Experienced and qualified massage therapists are adept at finding tense spots and they help restore the body's balance. The movements used in this therapy reduce the recovery time from an injury, boost the functions of the immune system, and improve circulation. This improves the flow of blood to and from the joints and muscles, which enhances circulation.

Skilled and licensed therapists have become an integral and important part of all health care teams. Though there are several different types of massage therapy techniques, some of the most common ones are the Swedish massage that is ideal for people who get regular massage, the Sports massage for athletes and weekend warriors to treat specific injuries, the Trigger Point massage for sensitive areas and muscles that are injured or have been overused, and the Deep Tissue massage that focuses on the deep layers of muscles and tissues.

Ultrasound Therapy Machines - Do These Machines Really Work

Ultrasound therapy machines are being used by physical therapists, trainers, and chiropractors to help treat muscle pain, joint pain, and arthritis pain. Many people believe that this form of therapy not only helps alleviate pain but speeds up the process of healing. So how does ultrasound therapy work?

High frequency sound waves are used to stimulate blood flow and cell growth in the injured or painful areas of the body. The vibration caused by the ultrasound machine supposedly will heat the treated area. The heated area in turn will draw more blood to the area. The more blood that flows to the area the more nutrients are delivered. The idea ultimately is to increase the blood flow so that more nutrients are delivered to cell tissues.

Typical applications last only 15 minutes and can be administered daily. Sometimes an anti inflammatory gel or cream is added to the treatment. The therapist will use a small circular motion with the hand held machine.

There are certain areas that should be avoided when using ultrasound therapy machines. Never use the machines near testicles, ovaries, face or spine. Also, do not use this type of therapy on infected areas.Today you can buy ultrasound therapy machines for home use. These machines normally cost a few hundred dollars. Before using this type of machine you should consult your doctor.

Before buying a machine make sure you do your homework and buy from a reputable company.Currently there is a great deal of ongoing research to see if this type of therapy actually works. Only time will tell. I know for me it seemed to help my muscle injury.