Elements Therapeutic Massage - Boca Raton

Set the Stage for Aging Gracefully

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 14:24:00 -0600

Aging gracefully is not just a lifestyle – it’s a mind-set that focuses on connecting your mind, body and spirit for overall health and wellness. In order to embrace the golden years as a healthy and active senior citizen, it is important to take care of yourself today by adopting consistent massage, nutrition and exercise habits so you can live tomorrow and the years to come feeling restored, vibrant and pain-free.

Industry trends show that senior citizens are taking a more holistic approach to their health and well-being needs as they age. According to a recent study from the AARP and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), Americans aged 50 and older are discussing the use of complementary and alternative products and practices such as herbal or dietary supplements, meditation, massage therapy, chiropractic care and acupuncture with their health care providers.

The survey found that just over half (53 percent) of people 50 and older reported using Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) at some point in their lives, and nearly as many (47 percent) reported using it in the past 12 months. Herbal products or dietary supplements were the type of CAM most commonly used, with just over a third (37 percent) of respondents reporting their use, followed by massage therapy, chiropractic manipulation, and other bodywork, used by around a fifth (22 percent) of respondents. Nine percent of respondents reported using mind/body practices, while 5 percent reported use of naturopathy, acupuncture and homeopathy.¹

Revive and Reinvigorate Your Body and Soul

As today’s baby boomers jump into the next stage of their lives as retirees, golfers, travelers and pool loungers, they are turning to massage therapy for a deeper sense of mind and body relaxation, restoration and circulation. Therapeutic massage is a medically proven method for supporting overall health and wellness. The benefits of massage for senior citizens can include:

Improved range of motion and decreased low-back pain.
Increased circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs.
Exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles.
Reduced swelling and scar tissue.
Reduced recovery time from injury/surgery.
Reduced stress, the cause of nearly 90 percent of today’s diseases.
Released endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller, thereby reducing the need for medications.
Stimulated lymph flow and support for the body’s natural process of detoxification.
Enhanced production of T-Cells to boost your immune system.²

Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to wait until you are stressed or injured to get a massage. Any time is a good time for a massage. Massage is like a health-supplement or preventative care for a person's body and mind. A regular monthly massage is a great way to cope with physical or emotional stress and to keep it from causing discomfort or harm to your body.

Protect Your Skin

If it’s not properly protected from nature’s elements, your skin can be the first body part to show signs of aging. Experts agree that consistently using sunscreen throughout the year (even during the winter months when the sun may be hiding behind clouds, but skin damaging rays can still be present) is one of the most important steps you can take to help your skin look as young as you feel. There are many make ups and daily moisturizers available that include SPFs of 15 or more to provide constant skin protection throughout the day.

Another element to consider when it comes to protecting your skin is increasing the humidity levels in your home, especially during the winter, to help prevent dry, chapped skin. Using a room humidifier while you sleep and/or using a house-wide humidifier system not only helps to increase the smoothness and softness of your skin, but it also can help with reducing wintertime nasal congestion and discomfort.

Massage also can help promote healthy skin and immune systems by stimulating and activating a body’s circulation. This mind and body relaxation technique can directly benefit skin by enhancing tissue elasticity, improving circulation and joint flexibility, as well as boost a body’s immune function, alleviate life-shortening stress and create a greater sense of self.³

Fuel Your Body

Fueling your body with adequate amounts of whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables is important for healthy bodies at any age. According to the National Institute on Aging, to eat well, it’s best to incorporate foods that are high in nutrients (vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates, lean proteins and healthy fats), but low in calories. When determining how much to eat, it’s important to take into account age, gender and activity level. The National Institutes of Health advises that women over age 50 should consume 1,600-2,200 calories per day depending on activity level, while men should consume 2,000-2,800 calories per day.⁴

Additionally, an often forgotten fuel for our body that is important to maintaining healthy skin and bodies as we age is drinking an appropriate amount of water each day. A recent study has found that people who drink 17-34 ounces of water daily are 36 percent less likely to develop high blood sugar or diabetes. The study suggests that when you’re dehydrated, your brain pumps out more hormones that tell the liver to produce glucose.⁵

So, how much is 17-34 ounces of water? Many water bottles have liquid measurements on the side and large ones will hold approximately 32 ounces of water. Fill up your water bottle at the beginning of the day and make sure it’s empty before going to bed. This will help you keep track of consuming the appropriate amount of water for a healthy and hydrated body.

Get Your Move On

Staying active as you age is an integral component to looking and feeling good throughout your golden years. Physical activity not only keeps your body fit and strong, but it also can help maintain mental strength and sharpness as you age. To get started, most cities or local organizations have senior citizen-specific fitness courses and/or activities that you can enroll in. Some popular senior citizen exercise activities include yoga and pilates to strengthen muscles, personal training to achieve specific total body goals or swimming for low impact cardio and full body workout.

In addition to participating in common exercise regimens, incorporating therapeutic massage into your activity plan can help keep you more mobile and pain-free. Massage not only tones muscle tissue, but it also supports joint lubrication to promote ease in movement.

To age gracefully, it’s important to approach your overall health and well-being in a holistic manner that connects your mind, body and spirit. By taking an active approach to regularly scheduled massage, nutrition, skin care and exercise routines, you are preparing for the next stage of your life as a happy, healthy and active senior citizen. Call Elements Therapeutic Massage today to start your journey of aging gracefully.

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Sources:

¹AARP, NCCAM. Complementary and Alternative Medicine: What People Aged 50 and Older Discuss With Their Health Care Providers. Consumer Survey Report; April 2010.

²Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals, Healthy Aging, Body Sense, Spring/Summer 2009.

³Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals, Healthy Aging, Body Sense, Spring/Summer 2009.

⁴National Institute on Aging, NIH Senior Health, Eating Well As You Get Older; May 2008.

⁵ Men’s Health Magazine, November 2011.

Let Your Back Pain Loose

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:44:00 -0600

It doesn’t matter whether you are a desk jockey, athlete, construction worker, stay-at-home mom or retiree, you will more than likely experience some level of back pain and discomfort throughout your life. Researchers and doctors agree that low back pain is one of the leading major health problems in today’s society. With cooler temperatures and less than favorable conditions, back pain can be even more present this time of year as snow shoveling duties, icy sidewalks and extreme winter sports can be the norm.

According to industry reports, 70 to 85 percent of people in the U.S. experience low back pain some time in their lives. Each year, 5 to 10 percent of the workforce misses work due to low back pain and almost 10 percent of all patients are at risk for developing chronic pain and disability.¹

Back Pain Triggers

One of the most frustrating characteristics of back pain is its ability to sneak up on you when you least expect it. You bend over to pick up your toddler from the bathtub and an unexpected pain shoots through your back and shoulders. You end the day feeling great after going on a weekend bike ride with buddies or playing a friendly flag football game with family, but wake up the next morning with your back muscles as stiff as an iron rod. Or, you may have spent the day in a long board meeting with few scheduled breaks and by the time you get your exhausted body to bed, all you can do is toss and turn because of a dull constant pain buzzing throughout your neck, back and shoulders. Sound familiar?

Industry statistics indicate that 97 percent of non-specific back pain problems are triggered by outside influences such as muscle strains, awkward movements, staying in a static position for too long, or when the combination of minor stresses occur together. The most common reported causes of low-back pain include:

Heavy Physical Work
Bending
Twisting
Lifting
Pulling and Pushing
Repetitive Work Patterns
Static Postures

Back pain usually is discovered when causes like the ones listed above are combined with an individual’s poor body stability, tone, flexibility and balance.²

Back Pain Remedies

So, what types of remedies should you use to combat back pain? Experts suggest taking a holistic approach to reducing back pain incidents by keeping your body fit with proper exercise and diet, using relaxation techniques such as massage and yoga, and enlisting proper posture practices such as ergonomically correct computer stations, strengthening core muscles and sleeping on your back or side with pillows supporting your knees and back.³

Massage

As an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, massage therapy has proven beneficial for many chronic conditions, including low back pain. Massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach to combating back pain based on the body's natural ability to heal itself. A 2011 study compared structural and relaxation (Swedish) massage techniques, and found that both types of massage worked well to remedy chronic low back pain with few side effects. The study also found that massage helps people with back pain function better even after six months, which can help support their ability to work, take care of themselves and be active.⁴

For those who use massage as a preventative measure to back pain or to manage daily back stress, one massage a month is common. Weekly massage sessions may be necessary for injury relief or to relieve chronic neck or back tightness that interferes with your daily life. If this is the case, weekly sessions are essential in order to build on each week's improvements in healing until the desired results have been achieved.

Yoga

The backbone of yoga practice and purpose is increasing an individual’s flexibility, while lengthening and strengthening a body’s muscles and mind’s focus. In relation to alleviating back pain specifically, recent studies have revealed that yoga classes have been linked to better back-related function and diminished symptoms from chronic low back pain. In one of the largest U.S. yoga studies to date, back-related functionality improved and symptoms were diminished with yoga at 12 weeks, while clinical benefits such as reduced use of pain medications lasted at least six months.⁵

Balance and Stability

Another common remedy to combat back pain is adding balance and stability moves to your daily activities. There are various poses and stability exercises that target your back muscles and core, but three simple balance movements that can get you started include: Bird Dog (extending your opposite hand and leg while on your hands and knees); Superman (extending both arms and legs while lying on your stomach); and Plank (holding your body off the floor by leaving your forearms and toes touching the floor). Start by holding each movement for 10 seconds and increase your time as you become stronger.

At some point in your life, you will more than likely experience some level of back pain. Whether it’s spending too much time hunched over your computer, shoveling heavy loads of wet, dense snow, or taking a wrong turn down a steep mountain ski run, back pain has a way of creeping up on you. The key to alleviating back pain is to take a holistic approach to treating and preventing your muscle aches and strains. By using a combination of the relaxation, flexibility and stability building techniques described above, low back pain can become a thing of the past, allowing you to live a healthy and active lifestyle. Call Elements Therapeutic Massage today to begin living a restored, vibrant and pain-free lifestyle.

Sources:

¹Buselli P, Bosoni R, Buse G, Fasoli P, La Scala E, Mazzolari R, Zanetti F, Messina S. Trial Abstract for Effectiveness evaluation of a SMATH System, October 2011.

²Chaitow, Leon. Massage & Bodywork Magazine, June/July 2006.

³ Buford, Darren. Massage & Bodywork Magazine, August/September 2001.

⁴ Group Health Research Institute. Annals of Internal Medicine, July 2011.

⁵ Karen J. Sherman; Daniel C. Cherkin; Robert D. Wellman; Andrea J. Cook; Rene J. Hawkes; Kristin Delaney; Richard A. Deyo. A Randomized Trial Comparing Yoga, Stretching, and a Self-care Book for Chronic Low Back Pain. Archives of Internal Medicine, 2011.

Benefits of Massage Therapy for Seniors

Sat, 22 Oct 2011 12:15:00 -0500

Massage therapy offers many possibilities to this senior group of citizens. Massage can provide relief from various types of muscle tension and overall discomfort for seniors who are still very active as well as those who are living with limiting conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure

Therapeutic massage, provided by a licensed massage professional, has been proven to do the following:

Decreases anxiety and stress
Lessons the symptoms of depression
Stabilizes blood pressure
Helps alleviate sleep disorders
Increases circulation
Improves joint mobility
Decreases inflammation
Increases the sense of well being
May lesson dependence on pain medications and other types of medications
Improves the flow of lymphatic fluid
Improves digestion
Provides much needed touch and nurturing

Additionally, the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) states that massage therapy can improve the quality of life for those in hospice living or comfort care.

Most licensed massage therapists are knowledgeable of the conditions that can occur in seniors, and can provide light to medium touch massage for specific, individual needs. Of course, all therapists are sensitive to each client’s sense of modesty and privacy and will respect and accommodate special requests. Before undergo any massage session, it is always recommended to discuss your needs and make sure the therapist is trained in massage techniques for seniors.

Some may wonder if a physician’s approval or a prescription is required for massage therapy, and it is generally not. However, there may be instances when a client should consult with their physician to insure safety before beginning a massage program. For example, someone who has an acute illness, is undergoing chemotherapy, has osteoarthritis, osteoporosis or has had recent surgery, should talk to their doctor first.

All of the Massage Therapists at Elements Therapeutic Massage are trained in providing a massage that is specific to the needs of senior clients. To find out more about Elements and to learn about the location nearest you, go to http://corp.touchofelements.com.

Prepare Your Body for Winter Activities with a Combination of Stretching and Massage Therapy

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 17:42:00 -0500

Prepare Your Body for Winter Activities with a Combination of Stretching and Massage Therapy

Staying fit during the winter holiday season comes with a long list of unique challenges and obstacles, but staying injury free can take even more of an effort when you introduce new, winter-specific activities like skiing, skating and sledding into your fitness routine. Before the winter activity season is in full swing, take steps today to warm up and loosen your muscles so you can hit the slopes or the rink pain free, as well as minimize after-activity soreness and fatigue.

Warm Up and Engage New Muscle Groups during the Pre-Season to Stay Injury Free

Before carving fresh tracks down the slopes this winter or lacing up your skates to hit the rink with your kids, it is important to incorporate a combination of regular stretching and therapeutic massage sessions for an active and injury free winter season. The key to keeping active during the winter months and staying off your family’s injured list is to focus on body flexibility and lengthening your muscles in the pre-season. Many of the popular wintertime activities (skiing, snowboarding and skating) physically impact your lower body, thereby creating a need for you to focus your stretching and strength efforts on hip, hamstring and trunk/lower back flexibility.

According to the National Academy of Sports Medicine, there are two common types of stretching – static stretching and dynamic stretching – that are good for promoting overall flexibility. Research indicates that holding a static stretch for 20-30 seconds allows your muscles time to relax and elongate, thereby increasing joint range of motion. Dynamic stretching on the other hand includes low intensity exercises that mimic sport specific movements. These types of stretches are good for warming up your body prior to a sports activity, as they help increase circulation, reduce muscle tightness and help your nervous system’s ability to contract muscles forcefully.

To kick off your winter pre-season regimen, it’s a good idea to combine consistent stretching sessions with routinely scheduled monthly massages 8-12 weeks prior to the start of your favorite wintertime activity. Regular therapeutic massages prior to your desired activity allow your body to release the toxins found in tight muscles, while increasing overall flexibility and circulation. Additionally, your massage therapist can assess and monitor your body’s flexibility range, while suggesting specific stretches and other techniques that will focus on lengthening and strengthening your body’s problem areas.

Remedy Your Winter Aches and Pains with Regular Massage Body Work

As the snow begins to fall and the barometric pressure takes a dive south, your body faces some unique challenges, especially as you get older and recovery times for muscle injuries and overuse get longer. Even when you focus on preparing your body for winter wear and tear before the season starts, there still may be an unfortunate event where you will become injured or experience some sort of ache and pain associated with muscle overuse and fatigue.

Lower back pain, in particular, is a common injury culprit in the winter as you can overdo it shoveling snow, incorrectly bending over to push your children’s sleds or accidently slipping and falling on ice covered sidewalks. In fact, research indicates that 70-85% of the population will experience low back pain at some point and lower back pain is one of the most common and costly musculoskeletal problem in modern society. Luckily, research supports that massage therapy can minimize pain and disability, while increasing the speed of return to normal function. Massage specifically is beneficial for patients with subacute (lasting four to 12 weeks) and chronic (lasting longer than 12 weeks) non-specific low-back pain, especially when combined with exercises and education. Furlan AD, Imamura M, Dryden T, Irvin E. Massage for low-back pain. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2008, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD001929. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001929.pub2

Additional research from Group Health Research Institute, the University of Washington in Seattle, the Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, and the University of Vermont in Burlington revealed that massage therapy has helped reduce pain and improve function more rapidly than usual medical care in people with chronic low-back pain. Back pain is a health problem that affects millions of Americans and is the most common medical condition for which people use complementary and alternative medicine practices, such as massage therapy. Cherkin DC, Sherman KJ, Kahn J, et al. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2011;155(1):1–9

Whether you are preparing yourself for family fun winter activities or recovering from a wintertime sports injury or accident, therapeutic massage sessions combined with a consistent stretching regimen should be your go-to strategy for minimizing aches and pains this winter season. Call Elements Therapeutic Massage today to schedule your winter pre-season massage therapy sessions.

Add Massage to Your Summer Training Regimen for Increased Health and Wellness

Thu, 26 May 2011 11:06:00 -0500

Add Massage to Your Summer Training Regimen for Increased Health and Wellness

Do hill repeats, long runs/rides, brick workouts or lap swims fill your summer training calendar? Are your upcoming weekends full of family hikes, golf tournaments, beach volleyball games or family camping trips? If so, then regularly scheduled massage therapy sessions should be an essential element to your active lifestyle. Whether you are a seasoned marathoner, weekend warrior, activity enthusiast or your ultimate goal is to finish your first 5k, incorporating massage into your summer routine will not only revive your health and well-being, but get you to the start (and finish!) line healthy and happy.

According to 2010 research published by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, massage to support a healthy lifestyle dates back to early civilization and it is a common technique today for the management and prevention of sport injuries. Massage also has been used to successfully increase flexibility and provide a greater range of motion. J Strength Cond Res 24(7): 1917-1924, 2010.

To prepare you for your active summer lifestyle, we offer the following tips for feeling restored, pain free and vibrant as you trade in your suit and high heels at the end of the workweek for athletic gear and fun-filled weekend adventures.

TREK DOWN THE TRAINING TRAIL

Just as every training program lays out a master plan for you to succeed in your big summer race, event or tournament series, don’t forget the most important element to any training schedule – regularly scheduled therapeutic massages to repair your tired, tense muscles and relax your training-focused, wired brain. A highly skilled massage therapist can be an extremely valuable member of your training team by helping you reduce the risk of injury, flush out toxins from your body, lengthen and stretch tight muscles and minimize the longevity of injuries.

Experts agree that if you treat common overuse injuries (sore ankles, tight back, sore shoulders and tight hamstrings, for example) with massage as soon as you feel the first muscle tweak or pain, you will be more likely to keep your training schedule on course, while setting up your body and mind for a successful summer event.

Suggested Massage Techniques during Training: Deep Tissue Massage or Sports Masssage

LOOSEN UP PRE-EVENT JITTERS

Before you lace up your shoes and pack your gear for your big summer event, prepare your muscles for the strain and intensity of the planned activity by scheduling a therapeutic massage 2-3 days prior to the event date. The goal of this massage is to release tension in your muscles without leaving them sore, as well as reduce any pre-event stress or anxiety so that you can maintain a positive mental focus on race day. Your massage therapist will loosen any last minute muscle kinks and warm up muscles to prepare you for a successful event.

Suggested Massage Techniques Prior to Event: Swedish Massage

CELEBRATE YOUR EVENT SUCCESS

You’ve trained hard, raced hard, played hard and now it’s time to treat yourself to an after-event massage. Instead of waiting in a 25-person deep line for an on-site post-event massage that only lasts five minutes, schedule at least an hour long massage for the day or two following your event. The goal of this massage is to help your muscles recover from the strenuous activity, as well as improve your body’s range of motion and reduce any spasms or cramping that may have been caused by the event. You will be better hydrated 24-48 hours following the event and will have more time to enjoy the fruits of your labor as your mind and body relax and unwind through the healing touch of a highly skilled massage therapist.

Suggested Massage Techniques Following the Event: Deep Tissue Massage

Elements Therapeutic Massage looks forward to partnering with you this summer to help you achieve your goals of living an active, vibrant lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a monthly massage and begin experiencing the Elements difference.

Elements Therapeutic Massage Gift Cards

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 09:37:00 -0600

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Speed Up Postpartum Healing with Postnatal Massage

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 09:36:00 -0600

Postnatal massage is one of the best ways for a new mom to care for herself. With all the chores related to the care of a new baby, mom may be even more stressed and uncomfortable than during her pregnancy.

Postnatal Massage is a natural therapy designed to help relax and heal a new mother. The postnatal massage is similar and yet, very different from a prenatal massage. While both massages will relax the mother, the postnatal massage will help get the new mom’s body back into a pre-pregnancy state by focusing on toning and reducing fluid retention.

Regular postnatal massage can help with the following common ailments:

Lower back pain
Neck and should pain
Headaches
Hand and wrist pain
Postural dysfunctions
Depression
Weakness and fatigue

It can also help in re-establish pelvis structural integrity, healthy lactation, toning muscles, and overall stress reduction. It can even aid in weight loss!

A variety of therapeutic massage techniques may be utilized during a postnatal massage, including Swedish and lymphatic massage. Before any postnatal massage, it’s best for new moms to consult with the massage therapist to discuss any specific aliments that the therapist should focus on.

For a mother that has delivered her baby naturally, it is generally pretty safe to go for a postnatal massage as soon as they feel well enough. For those that deliver by caesarian, a good rule of thumb is to wait at least two weeks after delivery. However, in all cases it’s best to consult with the doctor first.

Regular therapeutic massage during the postnatal period is very beneficial to all new moms. It addresses physical discomforts as well as nurtures the body, mind and soul, helping each new mom be the best they can be.

_____________________________________________________________________________________If you’re a new mom, Elements Therapeutic Massage can help you with your postpartum healing. Or, if you know a new mom, an Elements gift certificate is a thoughtful surprise. To find an Elements near you, go to Touchofelements.com.

Therapeutic Sports Massage - for the Elite and Occasional Athlete

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 09:29:00 -0600

Therapeutic sports massage was originally developed to help athletes prepare their bodies for optimal performance and aid in quick recovery. Many elite athletes consider sports massage an essential part of their training and recovery routine. They rely on it to help them train more effectively, improve performance, prevent injury and speed their recovery after strenuous exertion.

All that being said, you don’t have to be a professional athlete to get a therapeutic sports massage! It’s ideal for anyone who’s physically active – as well as someone who’s just starting out with a new workout program at the gym, running their first 10K or marathon, or doing anything else that’s outside their normal activity routine. If you’re a novice athlete, a pre-event sports massage can make a better, less-painful event for you. Or, if you’re a “weekend warrior”, a regular therapeutic sports massage may be just what you need to concentrate on a specific problem (sports or otherwise), chronic pain or a restricted range of motion.

There are four types of sports massages:

Pre-event Sports Massage - A short, stimulating massage before an event. It is directed towards the parts of the body that will be the most heavily involved in exertion.
Post-event Sports Massage – Usually this takes place either an hour or two after an event. The objective is to normalize the body’s tissues and prevent stiffness or soreness.
Restorative Sports Massage – Takes place during training to allow the athlete to train longer, harder and with less possibility for injury.
Rehabilitative Sports Massage – Should take place on a regular basis and is designed to either alleviate pain, increase range of motion or to restore the body to health.

Because every sport and athletic event uses muscle groups in a different way, there are a variety of methods used to administer a therapeutic sports massage. Generally, this is a type of massage often combined with various forms of stretching. A sports massage will stimulate circulation of blood and lymph fluids and may include one or more of the following techniques:

Deep Swedish massage – Long, broad and flowing strokes which may be used before, during and after any of the techniques listed here. Designed to increase circulation and remove toxins. It also re-aligns the muscle fibers to get them back to their normal state.
Deep Tissue massage – Muscle-specific massage for chronically tight or painful areas.

Trigger Point massage – Designed to break down adhesions and increase range of motion. Left untreated these tender points often lead to restricted and painful movement of entire body regions.
Lymphatic massage – Stimulates lymphatic-drainage pathways, which improves the body’s removal of excess fluids in the tissues that cause swelling and pain.

Compression Massage - A rhythmic compression into muscles to create blood flow and to soften the tissues. This is usually a warm-up for deeper, more specific massage work.
Cross-Fiber massage - A friction technique used in a general manner to create a stretching and broadening effect in large muscle groups. This helps reduce adhesions (knots in the muscles) and creates strong and flexible repair during the healing process.

Whether you’re a serious or an occasional athlete, enjoying less muscle pain and stiffness as well as improving your sense of well-being is good reason to take advantage of a regular therapeutic sports massage.

To get the most benefit from a therapeutic sports massage, be sure and ask your therapist about their training and techniques to learn what is right for you. And, no matter what type of massage you choose, the therapist should always check in with you about your needs and expectations during the massage.

At Elements Therapeutic Massage, you can always find a skilled therapist to help with your sports-related aches and pains. Go to Touchofelements.com to find the Elements nearest you.

Therapeutic Massage is for Men TOO

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 09:27:00 -0600

It’s a proven statistic. More women than men enjoy the benefits of regular therapeutic massage. According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), statistics from their 2009 national studies reveal 40 percent of women and only 29 percent of men reported seeing a massage therapist in the past five years.

Therapeutic massage is clinically proven to provide a wide-number of important health benefits including stress reduction, pain relief, lower blood pressure and improvements to the immune system. As a result, healthcare providers are increasingly promoting the benefits of massage to their patients.

In AMTA’s 2009 survey, thirty-nine million American adults discussed massage therapy with their healthcare providers. While physicians led the way in recommending massage, chiropractors and physical therapists also recommended massage therapy when their patients discussed it with them. Additionally, more than three-quarters of massage therapist (76%) indicate they receive referrals from health care professionals.

So to the 71 percent of men out there not experiencing massage, what’s the problem?

According to many experts, including licensed massage therapists, here are some of the questions about massage that men always want to ask, but are too embarrassed to ask….

Do I have to undress and if so, will the therapist be there when I undress? Nudity is indeed the number one concern for everyone getting a massage. But don’t worry; you should always undress to your level of comfort. It’s perfectly acceptable to leave on your undergarments and sometimes more, depending on the areas that need attention. If you do disrobe (totally or partially) all clients are discretely draped under a sheet with only one body part uncovered at a time. Additionally, the massage therapist always leaves the room so you’re alone to remove clothing and get under the top sheet/blanket. Don’t rush, they will knock and ask if you’re ready before coming in – just like at a doctor’s office.
What if I have a certain body part that I’m self-conscious about? People are indeed concerned about their bodies for a variety of reasons; overweight, scars, excessive body hair, etc. Don’t worry, massage therapists are used to seeing all shapes, sizes and condition of the body and they have an entirely clinical perspective, no different than any other health-care provider. However, if there’s a certain part of your body you really are subconscious about, just ask the therapist to avoid it.
I always chat when I get my hair cut, should I talk during the massage? If you want to talk, feel free, but don’t feel compelled to do so. This is your time to recuperate and relax. The therapist should check in with you during the massage to make sure the pressure level is correct and that they’re addressing your concerns. Of course, always speak up if anything is uncomfortable or you if forgot to mention something during the pre-massage consultation.
What if I’m uncomfortable with a male (or female) therapist giving me a massage? Don’t ever hesitate to specify that you would prefer a female or a male therapist. In fact, most massage studios will be upfront and ask you for your preference, before you have to ask.
If it’s a therapeutic massage, am I supposed to tip? I don’t at the doctor’s office. Whenever you’re pleased with the massage services, a 15 to 20% tip is standard. However, if you’re in a clinical/medical setting there really aren’t any ground rules. When unsure, don’t be afraid to ask if tipping is customary – either when you arrive or call ahead.

So your basic questions are answered and you’re ready for a massage. What type of massage do you want to experience?

Most massage studios offer a wide range of massage options, which can also be confusing. For many men, a good place to start is with a therapeutic sports massage. This is a type of massage technique that focuses on treating soft tissue aches and pains associated with recreational activities.

You don’t have to be an Olympian to benefit from sports massage. Whether you are a regularly sports enthusiast or an occasional athlete (even just a “walker”), a sports massage is the perfect way to relax tight, overworked muscles with a mix of techniques and stretches. The areas may include the hamstrings, quads, calf muscles and glutes. It also helps reduce adhesions (knots in the muscles) relieving the stress they can place on tendons, ligaments and joints. Sports massage is also good for those with injuries, chronic pain or a restricted range of motion.

For all the men who are hesitant about massage therapy, now’s the time to experience a massage! There are an increasing number of credible massage studios that always welcome women and men with convenient locations, plus evening and weekend hours. Whether you choose a therapeutic sports massage or any one of the many other massage techniques available, you’ll soon learn the value of regular massage therapy.

Men - Elements Therapeutic Massage is the perfect place for a “first-ever” massage or regular monthly massage. When you call to book your appointment we will schedule you with the therapist who best matches your specific massage needs. Our therapists will talk with you to learn where the pain is and help you decide what treatment is best for you. Ladies – help your “significant other” learn about the benefits of massage, treat him to an Elements gift certificate! To find about the Elements nearest you, go to touchofelements.com.

Can’t Sleep? Serotonin and Massage May be the Answer

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 12:50:00 -0600

Can’t Sleep? Serotonin and Massage May be the Answer

Do you struggle for hours to get to sleep, no matter how tired you are? Or do you wake up in the middle of the night and lay awake for hours, watching the clock and worrying about the next day? If so, you’re not alone. Insomnia is a very common sleep problem with more than 30% of the adults in the U.S. suffering from it; and 10% experiencing chronic insomnia (National Sleep Foundation).

Insomnia comes from the Latin words for “no sleep”. It is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, difficultly staying asleep, waking up too early and poor quality, “non-restorative” sleep. Chronic insomnia is poor sleep every night or most nights for more than 6 months.

Insomnia takes a huge toll on your energy, mood, and ability to function during the day. Chronic insomnia can even contribute to long-term health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.

But you don’t have to put up with insomnia. There are a wide variety of methods recommended for treating insomnia. Many of them involve simple life-style and daily habit changes such as not watching TV in bed, avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine in the evenings and developing a relaxing bedtime routine. Others involve a variety of medications – some over the counter; others prescriptive. But, now there are also complementary alternative medical (CAM) choices, one of which is therapeutic massage.

Serotonin plays a key role in mood, body temperature, physical coordination, appetite and sleep; and therapeutic massage can work to increase serotonin levels. A 2000 study on back pain and massage conducted by the Touch Research institute and the University Of Miami School Of Medicine demonstrated that in addition to a decrease in long-term pain, subjects receiving regular therapeutic massage also experienced an increase in serotonin levels and improved sleep*.

Therapeutic massage is a healthy and substance-free way to increase serotonin levels for the sleep deprived. Additionally, serotonin is a natural way to produce melatonin, which causes a drop in body temperature and positively influences sleepiness.

If you’re one of the 1,000’s of Americans suffering from lack of sleep, simple changes to your lifestyle and daily habits can always help. But you should also consider massage, as regular therapeutic massage sessions may prove to be the healthy, logical, safe and inexpensive way to put a stop to your sleepless nights.

Not sleeping? The skilled massage therapists at Elements Therapeutic Massage can help you get a good night’s rest. Go to Touchofelements.com to find the studio nearest you.

* “Research: Massage Eases Lower Back Pain, Increases Range of Motion”, Massage Magazine, Jan/Feb. 2002

Massage and Weight Loss

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 12:46:00 -0600

Massage and Weight Loss

You’ve had a fabulous holiday season - you’ve enjoyed your family and friends, the presents were wonderful and as always, you had plenty to eat and drink! The only trouble is, now you’re faced with your annual weight gain and your annual New Year’s resolution to get it off and get back in shape!

Of course, the first thing on your mind is to start dieting and to get into a regular exercise schedule. You know eating right and exercise are two sure-fired ways to recover from the holiday fun. Now, there’s a new addition to your annual “get back in shape” plan – this year add therapeutic massage to your New Year’s resolution.

Scientists now confirm what massage therapists have always known: massage can be a powerful and effective weight-loss tool. Massage is known to lower stress, improve circulation, increase mobility and speed recovery from overdoing it at the gym. Here’s how massage therapy specifically applies to your weight loss plan.

Massage improves circulation and the supply of nutrients to the muscles. After muscles are exercised, vital nutrients must be supplied to them so that they can recover and rebuild themselves. Massage maximizes the supply of these nutrients and oxygen through increased blood flow, which helps the muscles grow and burn more calories.

Massage also helps break down scar tissue built up from damage to the muscles, which further helps circulation as well as mobility. Also, massage helps flush toxins from the body, meaning your body can focus on the healthy foods you are eating and not the environmental toxins that build up over time, and especially during the holidays.

For those on an aggressive workout schedule, massage can greatly improve your flexibility and range of motion. This will make you less likely to hurt yourself, meaning more productive and pain-free hours in the gym which will result in greater calorie burn. Massage also helps reduce soreness by stretching, kneading and rubbing the muscles to keep them loose. With all this, there’s no taking off days from the gym, rather it’s easy to stay on a normal workout schedule.

If you’re new to massage or one who’s gained more than a few pounds during the holiday festivities, it’s understandable if you feel a little self-conscious about disrobing for a massage. But don’t worry, massage therapists are sensitive to your feelings and realize that nudity is the number one concern for many people experiencing a massage. Massage therapists are used to seeing all shapes, sizes and conditions of the body and they have an entirely clinical perspective, no different than any other health-care giver. Additionally, all clients are discretely draped under a sheet with only one body part being uncovered at a time. Of course, you can always undress to your level of comfort, leaving on portions of your clothing or undergarments.

Whether it’s a New Year’s resolution or a diet of any sort, always consider incorporating massage into your weight-loss routine with a bi-weekly or weekly treatment.

Losing weight is never easy. But thankfully it’s simple to incorporate massage in the healthy lifestyle that you’re building and to make it a regular on-going part of your life. It’s also a good idea to talk to your massage therapist or a doctor up front to let them know your weight loss goals, fitness routine and to determine how often you are getting massage. Don’t be surprised if there are more massages recommended at the beginning of your plan – this is normal and helps your massage therapist know your body’s way of handling stress and exertion.

Regular massage is just as important a component as a regular workouts and correct nutrition in any fitness and weight loss program. Elements Therapeutic Massage will work with you to create a plan for regular, ongoing massage therapy sessions that will fit with your budget and your schedule. To find the Elements nearest you, go to http://corp.touchofelements.com.

Oh, My Aching Back!

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 17:19:00 -0500

Oh, My Aching Back!

More than 100 million Americans suffer from lower-back pain, and nearly 25 billion dollars is spent in search of relief annually. A 2003 study shows that massage therapy produces better results and reduces the need for painkillers by 36 percent when compared to other therapies, including acupuncture and spinal manipulations*.

Therapeutic massage can indeed be an effective way to ease the pain of a wide variety of spinal conditions including: muscle tension, spasms, inflammation, aches, stiffness and pain. A skilled massage therapist will knead, rub and manipulate the affected muscles to increase blood flow (circulation) throughout the body. This will deliver oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and helps eliminate any acids or other waste products that accumulates in the affected area. The outcome is pain relief.

Here are some tips on how to massage away that pain in your back:

Make sure the massage therapist you use for your back pain has received training from an accredited school and that they have completed 500 hours of training.
If you’ve been injured during exercise of some type, consider a sports massage. Sports massage promotes both flexibility and relieves deep muscle tightness and strains.
For acute pack pain, request a deep tissue massage, but be prepared for an aggressive massage designed to liberate muscle fiber and detoxify the muscle tissue. There may be a slight level of discomfort, but it should not feel too uncomfortable. The therapist should check in with you during the treatment to determine if the pressure it right, “Should I go deeper, stay at the same level or even go somewhat lighter?”
Try a massage that alternates hot and cold treatments to alleviate back pain caused by sprains.
A hot stone massage can be very effective as the stones transfer heat into your body, allowing the therapist to work more effectively.
For a quick and temporary fix, look at investing in a hand-held home massager to take away minor pain. This will not provide all the benefits of a professional massage therapist but it will help you in a pinch.

Always remember, not all types of massage is appropriate for all types of back pain. A deep tissue massage is potentially not a good idea for someone suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or other degenerative diseases; however, a lighter touch massage would be appropriate. Be sure to always discuss the techniques to be used by the massage therapist, before beginning the massage session. If you have acute back pains, you should also consult your physician before beginning any massage therapy program.

At Elements Therapeutic Massage, our therapeutic approach is designed to match you with the therapist and the specific technique that’s best for your unique health and wellness situation. We also use a proprietary numbering system that indicates the level of work a therapist does, which is very important when dealing with back pain. To find the Elements nearest you, go to http://corp.touchofelements.com.

*Annals of Internal Medicine, June 2003

Benefits of Massage Therapy for Seniors

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 17:16:00 -0500

Benefits of Massage Therapy for Seniors

It’s no secret that the fastest-growing segment of the American population is 65 or older. According to the Department of Health & Human Services, the number of people 65 and older numbered 39.6 million and represented 12.9% of the US population in 2009. By 2030, there will be about 72.1 million people 65 and older, or 19% of the population. As this population group grows, there will be an increased emphasis on health, quality of life and well-being.

Therapeutic massage, provided by a licensed massage professional, has been proven to do the following:

Decreases anxiety and stress
Lessons the symptoms of depression
Stabilizes blood pressure
Helps alleviate sleep disorders
Increases circulation
Improves joint mobility
Decreases inflammation
Increases the sense of well being
May lesson dependence on pain medications and other types of medications
Improves the flow of lymphatic fluid
Improves digestion
Provides much needed touch and nurturing

Additionally, the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) states that massage therapy can improve the quality of life for those in hospice living or comfort care.

Sleeping With The Enemy? (Hint: It's Stress)

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 16:00:00 -0500

Sleeping with the Enemy? (Hint: It's Stress)
Lying awake at night? Can’t stop your mind from worrying about what happened yesterday and what will happen tomorrow? It’s not healthy — and that’s not just a saying.

Stress and the way you react to it may be affecting your health, even though it may not be apparent to you. You may think that persistent headache or inability to focus is caused by a physical illness, but the culprit may actually be excessive ongoing stress in your life. And it can lead to serious health problems.

According to the National Institutes of Health, stress is at the root of 80 percent or more of all illness and doctor visits in the U.S.. Here's how stress increasesyour risk of serious disease, your healthcare cost and your productivity.

Health effects of stress

The health effects of stress identified by The Mayo Clinic can range from relatively minor symptoms and conditions including …

Headache
Back pain
Upset stomach
Sleep problems
Irritability
Lack of focus
Forgetfulness
Overeating

… to more acute and critical health conditions including …

Chest pain
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Depression
Decreased immunity

What can you do to reduce stress?

First, recognize that you can’t prevent stress. It’s part of everyday life — and some level of stress is actually good for you. It’s how you react to stress, as well as a lifestyle that brings a frequently elevated levels of stress into your life, that can get you and your state of health into trouble.

Health experts agree that making lifestyle changes to help you identify your stress triggers and, most importantly, better manage your reactions to stress, can bring numerous health benefits.

Stress management techniques recommended by medical experts include massage as well as exercise, guided relaxation and breathing techniques, meditation, yoga and tai chi. (please spell check)

How massage can help you manage stress

The Mayo Clinic notes that studies have found massage helpful for stress relief and for managing anxiety and depression, as well as boosting immunity. Massage has been shown to help regulate hormones including norepinephrine, cortisol and serotonin — naturally occurring chemicals in the body that are associated with stress, relaxation and mood.

Beyond the physical effects of tactile manipulation of the muscles, tissues, joints and organs, the stress-relief and health benefits of massage also come from the caring and comfort of physical touch.

These benefits of regular massage can help you cope with stress when it’s occurring — and also develop a stronger everyday resilience to the stresses life will inevitably bring.

Stressed to the max? We can help. Our team of massage therapy professionals is trained to help you identify your stress “storage” points and release the tension physically — so you can let it go more easily and feel calm, cool and in control of whatever comes at you. Life brings it on. We get it out.

Be sure to check with your doctor if you’re experiencing chronic stress. Your symptoms could be associated with a serious health condition.

Can Massage Therapy Save you Money on Healthcare?

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 15:59:00 -0500

Can Massage Therapy Save You Money on Healthcare?

You might think of a massage as a luxury. But can massage therapy actually pay for itself by reducing your medical bills?

There’s growing evidence that massage is a beneficial complement to medical treatments for certain chronic health conditions. Significant research is ongoing in this area, notes the National Institutes of Health’s National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). While experts emphasize that the medical benefits of massage need more study, some research has shown evidence that massage therapy is effective in treating chronic health conditions that lead to billions of dollars in healthcare costs a year in America.

Ranging from back pain, migraines and fibromyalgia to anxiety and depression, chronic health conditions are costing Americans dearly in out-of-pocket medical expenses to seek relief at doctor’s offices, pharmacies and operating rooms. These are the types of conditions that massage can help with the most.

According to NCCAM, a 2008 review of 13 clinical trials found evidence that massage may help relieve chronic low-back pain.
The Mayo Clinic notes that some studies have found evidence that massage therapy is beneficial for anxiety and noted that ongoing sessions of massage therapy can reduce "trait anxiety" (general anxiety-proneness) — as well as improve symptoms of depression.
According to The Mayo Clinic, some research has shown that massage decreases chronic pain in people suffering with fibromyalgia or migraines.

Massage is even being used to help make cancer treatment less traumatic and debilitating. Massage therapy has been shown to bring a 50 percent improvement in symptoms including anxiety, pain and fatigue among patients being treated for cancer, according to the Integrative Medicine Service at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. And a study of more than 300 advanced-stage cancer patients in multiple hospice facilities found that massage may help relieve pain and boost mood for cancer patients.

Increase the benefits with regular massage treatments

Regular ongoing massage treatments can play a huge part in how healthy you’ll be and how youthful you’ll remain with each passing year, notes the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals group. Getting a massage at consistent intervals is an investment in your health, and just because massage feels like pampering doesn’t make it any less therapeutic.

Think of massage appointments as one of your ongoing health and wellness habits that you do to prevent the costs, stress, pain, discomfort and upheaval associated with illness and disease.

More massage! Better health!

At Elements Therapeutic Massage, we’ll work with you and your practitioner to create a plan for regular, ongoing massage therapy sessions that can keep you healthy while working with your schedule and lifestyle, your health concerns and your priorities. Call or come in today and let’s talk about how you can get more massage and well-being in your life.

5 Ways a Prenatal Massage Should be Different

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 15:58:00 -0500

5 Ways a Prenatal Massage Should Be Different
Pregnancy can be so uncomfortable! Time for a massage — but do you need a special kind of massage when you’re pregnant? What’s different about it besides the fact that you might not be able to lie on your stomach? Here’s why the experience, techniques and benefits of a prenatal massage are different from a standard massage.

When you’re expecting a baby you’re likely to feel all kinds of aches and pains. The added weight you’re carrying, along with the way it’s centered in the front of your body, can cause changes in your posture and gait as your body tries to compensate for your changing center of gravity. But as the uterus expands, the baby grows and your hormone levels shift, it’s more than just backache that can ensue.

There are several ways in which a real prenatal massage is different than the average relaxation massage you receive at a typical day spa. These differences become more important and more pronounced as your pregnancy progresses — with more adjustments made in your second and third trimester vs. in your first trimester.

Prenatal massage techniques are designed to …

Reduce swelling. Special manipulation techniques can be used to stimulate soft tissues to reduce edema (fluid retention). Edema is often caused by the fact that the heavy uterus can reduce circulation and increase pressure on major blood vessels, notes the American Pregnancy Association based on research published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
Relieve sciatica. Sciatic nerve pain is a common complication during pregnancy because the uterus rests on the pelvic floor and lower back muscles. The pressure radiates pain through the sciatic nerve into leg muscles, in turn causing those muscles to swell and put pressure on nearby nerves. Massage therapy can reduce inflammation in the nerves by helping to release the tension on nearby muscles. Many pregnant women experience significant reduction in sciatic nerve pain through regular massage.
Balance hormone levels. Recent studies have shown that massage during pregnancy significantly improved regulation of the hormones norepinephrine, cortisol and serotonin — hormones associated with stress, relaxation and mood. These improvements can help expectant mothers balance out mood swings and reduce the risk of low birth weight or complications with delivery, reports the APA based on an article on massage therapy effects on pregnant women suffering with depression, in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
Keep baby safe. The intensity of the pressure applied to the muscles and tissues, and the positioning of the mother’s body, should be adjusted to ensure that the baby is protected.

5 tips for getting the right prenatal massage for you

Tell your massage therapist how far along you are and when your due date is.
Ask for a massage therapist experienced in prenatal massage techniques. These professionals specialize in prenatal and postnatal massages.
Advise the therapist of any particular troubles, concerns, aches … Point out where you’re feeling pain or discomfort, when it tends to be at its worst, and what activities seem to aggravate it or cause it to flare up.
Be specific. “Feels like” comparisons are helpful here — does it feel like a needle in your back every evening, or a dull ache in your hip when you try to bend?
Ask about Swedish massage. Swedish massage is a recommended prenatal massage method because it is effective at relieving many discomforts related to the changes in hormone levels, spinal and joint alignment, and circulation that are often experienced by pregnant women. Swedish massage aims to relax muscle tension and improve lymphatic and blood circulation. The therapist uses long, gliding strokes and kneading and tapping techniques on the top layer of muscles; and may also manipulate the joints gently to improve range of motion.

Be sure to consult your doctor first about whether a massage is suitable for your condition.

When you’re nearing delivery, schedule yourself for a postnatal massage. This type of therapy is differs from a prenatal massage in that it focuses on toning a new mother's body and reducing fluid retention. And of course, it can help ease the stresses of all the change you’re experiencing at home (like getting up with the baby in the middle of every night) — and that release and renewal can help you be a better mom.

Need to Detox? Massage Can Help

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 15:57:00 -0500

Need to Detox? Massage Can Help

Not feeling your best and not sure why? Might be time to detox.

You don’t have to go on a detox diet or drink special smoothies to detox. Start with a massage to kick-start your body’s own natural cleansing processes, which can slow down for a variety of reasons — lack of regular exercise, too little fluids or fiber in the diet … If you haven’t been taking the best care of yourself, a detoxifying massage can help set things right again.

How does massage help the body detox, exactly?

The rhythmic strokes and pressure applied to muscles, tissues and organs during massage therapy help stimulate the circulatory system. It works sort of like a sponge: When pressure is applied to the tissue and fat, toxins are literally “squeezed” out from in between the muscle fibers and cells. They’re released into the circulatory system for easier elimination.

The lymph system is key

Your lymphatic fluid system works with your cardiovascular circulatory system to flush out toxins and carry immune cells throughout the body to help defend against infections. If your lymph fluid circulation gets sluggish, toxins can accumulate and immune cells may not get carried to the areas of the body where they’re needed.

Since the lymph system doesn’t have a big central pump like the heart to keep things moving, it has to rely on gravity, exercise, breathing … and massage. So if you haven’t been as good as you should about your exercise, diet and “me time” routine (it happens to the best of us!), that can affect how you feel, causing aches, pains and swelling (lymph edema). It can also cause deterioration in organs and glands like the thymus that are vital players in your immune system.

It’s easy to see why detoxification is important to avoiding illness and chronic health conditions. So if you’re not feeling your best or haven’t been as good about your diet and exercise routine lately, try a massage to get back on track. Remember to drink a glass or two of pure water after massage to help the body flush out toxins more rapidly.

http://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/index.php/article_id/468/Benefits-of-Massage

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 16:46:00 -0500

Check out this article from www.massagetherapy.com for all the benefits of massage therapy. It is good for everyone's wellbeing.

http://www.thebostonchannel.com/video/23690873/index.html

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 16:44:00 -0500

Check out this video The Boston Channel posted regarding using Massage to flush away the stresses of life.