destinations
The Benefits of
Therapeutic Massage By Kate Anderson
S
oothing music, aromatherapy, cucumber water and all the trappings a spa day provides might be on your mind when talking about massage. But therapeutic massage is a different entity. Yes, it can relax you and benefit your mind and body at the same time, but it goes beyond the techniques and experiences of a spa massage. Therapeutic massage can dramatically reduce pain, help with proper body movement, reduce inflammation and lead to great healing of the mind, body and spirit.
The Intention of Healing You might be wondering, “What is the big difference between a traditional spa massage and therapeutic massage?” Heidi Smith, PT, a physical therapist who specializes in using therapeutic massage in her practice, points to the depth of pressure in therapeutic massage, the specificity of areas worked on and the intent of healing versus spa massage’s pure relaxation. She says, “The depth of massage might be a difference but the biggest is intention of the massage. Spa massage is more to relax and unwind, which in itself is therapeutic in stress reduction technique. However, therapeutic would be targeting specific areas of the body to stimulate healing or recovery.” In fact, Johns Hopkins Medicine, the number one rated hospital in the country, incorporates therapeutic massage into its healing and recovery regimen. Their integrative medicine program website states, “Therapeutic massage can be used as a collaborative, supportive addition to conventional medical treatment of illness and injury, alleviating pain and stress, aiding
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soft tissue healing, and revitalizing the body. Also, regular massage can enhance health, providing relaxation, release of muscle tightness, relief from anxiety and tensions, and balancing aspects of body/mind/spirit.”
Focusing on Muscles for Proper Movement and Pain Reduction Incorporating therapeutic massage into a conventional medical regimen with patients often focuses on certain body problem areas, particularly the muscles. Reactionary tightness in muscles leads to increased pain and improper movement that can hinder healing.