Many of my patients see massage therapy as an indulgence. They might go to a spa a few times a year as a special treat, or to relax after a period of stress. As an orthopedic surgeon, I know there are more benefits to massage than simply an hour of relaxation. It is an important component in many treatment plans, and it can target your individual needs if you understand the difference between massage techniques. Here is what you need to know about the most popular types of massage to discover which one is right for you.
Swedish Massage
If you go to a day spa or make an appointment at hotel spa, you are almost certain to get a Swedish massage. Considered an all-purpose therapy, Swedish technique is certainly relaxing and beneficial to a wide range of people. The goal is to stimulate circulation with the use of long, flowing strokes, all focused in the direction of the heart. Massage oil or lotion may be used to reduce friction. A well-trained therapist should discuss with you beforehand any specific injuries or areas you may be concerned about. The massage may be light or firm, based on your preference. By increasing circulation, this technique may reduce swelling and speed healing.
Shiatsu
This Japanese technique uses firm pressure applied with the fingers. By stimulating the traditional acupressure points, increased energy and balance in the body is encouraged. The technique is surprisingly relaxing and gentle for people who are concerned about muscle soreness. Shiatsu is a popular alternative method of relieving pain. By restoring balance in the organs and circulatory system, it is believed that this method helps the body resist disease.
Hot Stone Massage
This technique, in which smooth, flat stones are heated and placed on various pressure points, is enjoyable for its novelty. It is highly relaxing and the warmth is comforting to many people. If Swedish massage is too vigorous for you, the gentler nature of hot stone massage is a good choice. Although somewhat light, this technique may effectively ease muscle tension. It is a good choice for people whose main goal is stress-relief.
Thai Massage
This technique stands apart from other forms of massage. Instead of lying passively on a table, you are guided through various stretches and positions by a therapist working on a mat. One may compare Thai massage to a gentle yoga session without doing the work yourself. Like Shiatsu, specific pressure points are utilized to stimulate the body's organs and promote circulation. The therapist may use his or her body weight to massage different parts of the body, and you will not have to disrobe for Thai massage. It is a good choice if you are not managing an injury and want to improve flexibility and energy.
Aromatherapy Massage
This technique is centered on scented plant oils, called essential oils. It is critical that the therapist discusses your goals ahead of time so he or she can choose the essential oils that will best complement your treatment. Certain scents are known to promote various outcomes, such as relaxation, energy, calm, balance and focus. The scent should be defused throughout the room, and will also be applied as massage oil. Throughout the session, you may be given various scents to sniff to enhance your experience. If you would like to use massage as a relief from emotional trauma or stressful situations with strong emotional components, aromatherapy is a good choice.
Sports Massage
This type of massage is useful not only for athletes, but anyone who engages in a lot of physical activity. The strokes are similar to Swedish massage, but may be more vigorous. It can be used before an event to increase energy and circulation; after an activity to calm the nervous system, sooth tired muscles and reduce recovery time; and after an injury to increase flexibility and stimulate healing in the muscle tissues. Sports massage is always geared to your specific activity, physical condition and goals.
Whatever technique you choose, massage is a highly rewarding experience. If you consider your goals beforehand and discuss them with your therapist, it can have a dramatic effect on your treatment and well-being.
Mark Bromson, M.D. http://www.vitalmaxvitamins.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Bromson,_M.D. |
1) Where did he or she train?Another important point is to check for a valid license and certifications. In the US, NCCAOM is the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. They put out the National Exam that most, if not all, states recognize.
2) How many years did he or she been train?
3) How many years has he or she been practicing acupuncture or herbology?
4) Does he or she have an NCCAOM certificate in acupuncture or herbology?.
Chiropractic care is often thought of as a treatment for back and spine problems, but there is a lot more to the practice than just dealing with the spine. It is thought by practitioners of chiropractic care that disorders and problems with the musculoskeletal system can affect the functioning of the body in a variety of ways.
Chiropractic care is usually used as a complementary medicine that is used in conjunction with traditional approaches to illness and injury. The practice will focus on manipulation of the soft tissue and joints of the spine as well as other areas. Many chiropractors will also teach patients how to perform exercises on their own at home to help their condition. Lifestyle and the overall health of the patient is also counseled for patients who are experiencing health concerns.
There are two different types of chiropractic care that you can receive. The first group are considered to be straight chiropractors and believe that spinal adjustments and vitalism are key to all illness and conditions experienced in the body. These practitioners are not the mainstream of chiropractors any longer. The second type of chiropractor are the mixers and these practitioners believe in the benefits of spinal adjustments and other areas of chiropractic care along with other alternative and traditional methods of medicine.
In the beginnings of chiropractic care, it was not thought of as an appropriate form of therapy. There were a number of chiropractic practitioners who were prosecuted for practicing medicine without a medical license. In recent years, it has been established as an appropriate form of medicine and has gained increased support among the medical community. Many health plans even cover chiropractic care for patients who are in need of their services. Mainstream medicine has embraced the practices of chiropractors when it is used in conjunction with traditional medicine.
The safety of chiropractic care has been under scrutiny in the past, but today it is widely regarded as safe for most patients. Of course, there are some patients who should not use chiropractic care and your doctor should determine if you are physically able to withstand the manipulations and adjustments that are common in chiropractic care.
It is important that you check with your regular doctor to be sure that chiropractic is safe for you. While the practice is quite safe, it is not always appropriate for all patients. Those with osteoporosis should use care when deciding on chiropractic care for the treatment of their conditions or injury. Your doctor is best able to make the call.
Outarow Chhuong has been involved in alternative health since 1997, and is currently writing health articles related to anti wrinkle cream, and anti aging wrinkle cream.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Outarow_Chuong
When Should You See a Chiropractor?
By Keith Warde
Experiencing lower back pain is common for most people and they can feel relief within a few weeks with general self care. There are those that do suffer with more frequent severe lower back pain or the pain doesn't go away for them. This is when you should seek chiropractor care.
There are many different reasons a person will suffer from lower back pain, including strenuous exercise, general strain, poor posture, and lifting excessive amounts of weight.
What type of symptoms can one expect if they are experiencing lower back pains, stiffness and muscle spasms, burning sensations, pain that comes on suddenly or gradually.
When you visit your chiropractor after suffering from lower back pain that won't ease up, your chiropractor may suggest different things to try.
With your lower back pain your chiropractor may believe this is caused by a slipped disc and will order x-rays. If you are suffering from frequent lower back pain and it won't go away, you should seek a chiropractor and find a good treatment plan.
Chiropractor care is one of the safest methods of treatment. There is one treatment that is popular called manipulation. This concept is used to apply force to a joint. This force pushes it beyond its regular range of motion.
In theory when there is no to little movement of your spine it can cause pain and reduce function. With manipulation it will adjust your spine to where it needs to be.
There are other treatments for lower back pain which might include ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation, or massage therapy.
No matter what type of lower back pain you suffer from you should consult with a chiropractor for advice and treatment. You will feel much better and your back will thank you for it.
Dr. Keith Warde, D.C. provides cost-effective state of the art chiropractic care. Whether you are seeking chiropractic care, rehabilitation services, massage therapy or MUA (Manipulation under anesthesia) Southwest Spine & Sport, Inc can help you!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_Warde
Thinking of Buying Over the Counter Pain Medication? Better Think Again
By Jes Walia
They come in different colors, shapes and sizes, lined up beautifully in a row in every drugstore. But while many people still patronize medicines over the counter, more and more people are now saying that they have popped pills far too many.
Scared by reports of side effects of modern day medicines has prompted many people to seek alternative medicines.
For instance experts say that pain medications could cause allergic reactions, fainting, unusual weakening or fatigue, abnormal bleeding or bruising, jaundice or yellowing of the skin and eyes, confusion, symptoms of infection (such as fever, chills and sore throat), and irregular heartbeats.
It could also trigger dizziness, lightheadedness, numbness of limbs, muscle aches and cramps, increased hunger or thirst, changes in sense of taste, dry and irritating cough, excessive urination, anxiety or depression, rashes, profuse sweating, upset stomach, vomiting, gas, mild diarrhea, sedation, constipation and nausea.
But why take the risk and suffer even one of these side effects when you have options.
There is acupuncture, which is the Chinese form of healing. It is described as a technique of inserting fine filiform needles into specific points in the body for therapeutic purposes.
Or you could consult a chiropractor which mainly deals with mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system particularly on the spine in connection with the nervous system.
The world-renowned fashion designer Oscar de la Renta, at some point in his life, had himself treated by a chiropractor when he suffered a whiplash problem and experienced severe pain in his elbows and arms.
Since he has just came from a surgery, the suggestion to undergo another surgery to cure his whiplash problem did not appeal to him. De la Renta decided to see a chiropractor and religiously he underwent treatment everyday for six weeks. At the end of the treatment, he no longer experienced pain and no longer had to undergo another surgery.
| Factors leading to and Increase in Cholesterol Poor eating habits Diet that is high in saturated fat tends to elevate cholesterol. Saturated fats are found mostly in foods that come from animals. Saturated fat raises you LDL ("bad") cholesterol level more that anything else in the diet. Eating too much saturated fat is the main reason for high levels of cholesterol and high rate of heart attacks. Smoking Cigarette smoking lowers HDL ("good") cholesterol levels and is one of the six major risk factors of heart disease. It also increases the tendency for blood to clot. Once a person quits smoking, HDL cholesterol levels rises within weeks or months to levels that are equal to their nonsmoking peers. Excess Weight Excess weight tends to increase your LDL ("bad") cholesterol level. If you are over weight and have high LDL-cholesterol level, losing weight may help you lower it. Heredity Heredity can make certain individuals more prone to high cholesterol. Genes play a role in influencing you LDL-cholesterol level. Your genes influence how high you LDL ("bad") cholesterol is by affecting how fast LDL is made and removed from the blood. Stress Stress over the long term has been shown in several studies to raise blood cholesterol levels. One way that stress may do this is by affecting your habits. For example, when some people are under stress, they console themselves by eating fatty foods. Alcohol consumption Alcohol intake increases HDL ("good") cholesterol but does not lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol. But drinking too much alcohol can damage the liver and heart muscle, lead to high blood pressure, and raise triglycerides. Because of the risks, the benefit isn’t great enough to recommend drinking alcohol if you don’t do so already. Factors which Lower Cholesterol in the Body Good Eating Habits Eating healthy is a vital part of lowering you cholesterol. Increasing fiber intake by as little as 3 grams per day can help lower cholesterol. Good sources include oatmeal, soy, legumes, some vegetables, and beans. A healthy diet includes minimal saturated fat. However, monounsaturated fats (olive oils) have a positive effect on cholesterol. Alcohol should also be kept to a minimum. Exercise Along with diet, exercising is an important part of achieving a healthy cholesterol level. Being physically active can help lower you cholesterol level, whether it involves everyday activities like cleaning or gardening or structured exercise program. Exercise sets off a series of enzymatic reactions in the body that increases HDL’s and lowers triglycerides. This will ultimately lower LDL’s ("bad") and total cholesterol. Weight Loss This is actually the most significant independent contributor to cholesterol reduction. While exercise and proper diet contribute to cholesterol reduction. In most cases weight loss must occur to see an improvement. The good news is that only a five percent weight loss can alter cholesterol significantly. |
----- Linda Giles also writes on Fungrx: Ring Worm Treatment. More info: Treatment for Ringworm, Cure |
| Back pain is one thing most likely to elicit a twinge of sympathy from the hardest of hearts. It is estimated that every person in the world will suffer from it in his/her lifetime - mild to serious, chronic or temporary. You could get an attack at any point along the spine, especially the lower back area which takes on the maximum weight and stress. Most common causes: strain or bruising of muscles; sprain or injury to ligaments; and spasms when the injured muscle knots up as part of the body’s attempt to immobilize it to prevent further injury. Other causes include osteoporosis, arthritis, a slipped disc, or even excessive gas, besides more serious causes like tumors, diabetes or kidney malfunctions that emerge in a doctor’s clinic. Blame it on your Lifestyle An important factor and one that is entirely in you hands, is lifestyle. For instance, improper postures while sitting and sleeping, and carelessness during walking, stretching or playing, especially when you are overweight, are few common causes. Grand illusions of being a Hercules incarnate and lifting heavy weights or improperly hefting them around are other frequent errors. Bad posture is the biggest culprit. Desk jobs mean sitting for hours before computers where we unconsciously slump into odd positions. Or twist our backs frequently while trying to reach for something behind or beside us, or stretch forward too far; too fast. We also unconsciously slip into awkward positions while reading or watching TV sprawled on the bed or sofa. Sit up Chairs with gaps at the lower back level are deadly - avoid them. And if you think you are invulnerable because you have that perfectly ‘ergonomically’ designed chair; know this - most people unconsciously lean forward in such a way that their lower back moves away from the chair base and thus remains unsupported. Get up and Walk around Sitting anywhere, anyhow, for long periods means that dangerous pressure points develop along the back. The load on you back is the highest when you are sitting, less while standing and least when you are sleeping. The golden rule is to get up and walk around every 15-20 minutes. When on a long drive, get out of the car, walk around, stretch you limbs after every two hours. While driving, the back of the car seat should not recline beyond 30 degrees and ideally the seat bottom should be tilted up slightly in front. It’s not a high Avoid regular use of high heels - they hamper good posture, ruin you body’s alignment and hurt the back, feet and neck. Our feet are designed to bear the entire weight of the body evenly across their surface. However, the feet and legs are placed in and unnatural position when you wear heels. Most of the pressure is transferred to the front of the foot. Stressed Out The modern-day stress epidemic is another factor since back pain can be psychosomatic. Stress/emotional problems both cause back pain and aggravate any existing pain. Yoga and meditation sessions are effective in such cases. Weak stomach muscles heighten back strain and cause you pelvis to twist abnormally. Regular and proper exercise help tremendously since it keeps joints mobile, muscles conditioned and, more importantly, raises your pain threshold. Don’t over Exercise Doctors receive many back-pain patients who are victims of improperly-trained gym instructors or half-baked yoga teachers. Suddenly launching into heavy, unaccustomed activity is a sure recipe for disaster. |
----- Lucy Nicholas also writes on Acne Remedy Home. More info: Acne Treatment & Medication |
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