Physical Therapy Treatments - How Physiotherapy is Used in the Treatment of Down Syndrome

When we speak of physiotherapy as a treatment for children suffering from Down syndrome, it must be kept in mind that Down syndrome is a condition that can never be completely treated. Physiotherapy is used not so much to treat the syndrome as to alleviate the complications peculiar to children afflicted by Down syndrome.

Treatment in the early stages of a child with Down syndrome concentrates on addressing four problems common in this phase. The first among these is hypotonia. Children with Down syndrome do not have muscle tone, meaning their muscles are slack and lack control. Hypotonia requires immediate attention since if left untreated it hampers a child ability to develop sufficient motor skills or balance.

A child suffering from Down syndrome also has extremely loose ligaments. Their bones are not adequately supported and their joints remain too loose to allow normal mobility in later years. The early signs of lax ligaments are seen in children with splayed legs while lying down.

Physiotherapy, with the correct exercises, is essential to rectify the muscular weakness present in children with Down syndrome. Incorrect treatment of these issues leads to further complication like locked knees, which develop to make up for the lack of strength in the lower legs. Such reactions are very harmful in the future.

Such children also face problems with their body shape. They have disproportionate limbs in comparison to their torsos, which leads to complications in the way the sit or climb stairs. Something as simple as reaching out for food can be an arduous task for affected children. Physiotherapy addresses issues such as these and helps these children on towards a semblance of normal life.

Early intervention physiotherapy for Down syndrome focuses on rectifying weakness issues and teaching general motor skills to children. Acts like rolling over, crawling, sitting up, and walking all are motor skills that children ultimately have to learn. With the assistance of a physiotherapist, these skills are taught such that the children have a strong foundation upon which to base other motor skills.

In the treatment of children who have Down syndrome, a major hurdle is educating parents on what aspects of their child's growth should be brought to the attention of a doctor, and subsequently a physiotherapist. Parents often do not know what actually requires the attention of a therapist, because there are several things in their child that are unlike other children.

For example, if a child with Down syndrome is unable to hold her neck upright, it is imperative that the doctor is informed at once so that a physiotherapist can treat the child and assist her to strengthen the muscles in her neck.

Physiotherapy, once started, should ideally be a life-long routine for a Down syndrome afflicted child, as it will help them maintain their fitness and health. People suffering from Down syndrome live as long as other people, and may not be as well-equipped to deal with age-related issues like weakening bones, ligaments or muscles. Continues physiotherapy helps a person living with Down to live a healthy life.

Physiotherapy for these children is not given its due importance till matters often go out of hand. Permanent weaknesses result, leading to odd behavior and disfigurement that could have been avoided with a little more care. Down syndrome physiotherapy should be started as soon as possible so that the child can lead a better, healthier life.

Will Volunteer Experience Help Get You Into Physical Therapy School?

Many students have problems determining what they need to do in order to get into a physical therapy program. There is one thing that is certain, admissions committees are now looking for much more than a good academic record. In fact, in many cases, the academic record is becoming less important than ever. There are more opportunities to improve a students resume beyond just academics than ever. This has led to an increased focus on activities that can be taken advantage of outside of the classroom by admissions committees

Physical therapy schools are now heavily favoring people that have had an in-depth introduction to the field of physical therapy and the actual work that physical therapists do on a daily basis. In order for a potential student to gain this experience, volunteering is a great option. It doesn't matter if the position is paid or volunteer, it will be viewed in a similar light. It is also important that a potential physical therapy student to try to get experience in a variety of settings. This will help them demonstrate that they have a clear understanding of the work that they will be doing as a licensed physical therapist.

Here is a quick look at some ways to boost your credentials and put you ahead of the competition.

1. Create hands-on situations

It is a great idea for prospective students to have a real-world idea of what the work of the physical therapist is really like. Try to find volunteer positions. There are often positions available at places like massage clinics and medial outreach programs. A great way to find these is to go to local hospitals and rehabilitation centers and ask about any volunteer opportunities that they are involved with.

2. Resource Centers

At many colleges and universities there are free career counseling and career resource centers available to students. These centers not only give excellent academic guidance but can also have the inside track on upcoming volunteer opportunities that would be helpful. If you do not have access to this type of facility, there are also a number of websites that may be able to help as well.

3. Have a Plan

When building up your experience, whether volunteered or paid, it is important to have a plan. If your goal is to get into physical therapy school, you need to make sure that the experience you are gaining is somehow applicable to your future in physical therapy. Even if it is something basic like management experience or volunteering at a nursing home.

Regardless what you do, the most important thing to remember is that you will almost always need more than academics to get the attention of the admissions committee.

Physical Therapy and Exercise For Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that can cause stiffness, pain and swelling in joints and other supporting structures of the body such as bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Some forms of arthritis may affect other parts of the body, including various internal organs. There are many different types of arthritis including osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease), rheumatoid arthritis psoriatic arthritis gouty arthritis and septic arthritis Arthritis can affect anyone at any age. Arthritis treatment often includes physical therapy and exercise. Physical therapy and exercise can help arthritis sufferers in many ways. The primary goal is to improve functional capacity to help reduce pain and fatigue associated with daily activities. Increasing the range of motion of a joint is the primary focus of physical therapy.

Physical therapy and exercise for arthritis focuses on pain relief, and in restoring function and movement. Physical therapy programs may provide therapeutic methods, including physical techniques and activity modifications. A physical therapy program consisting of manual therapy and exercise benefits patients with arthritis.

Gentle exercise helps to prevent bone loss and osteoporosis. Lifting weights is a beneficial exercise for arthritis and for joint support. Physical therapy and exercise reduces joint pain and stiffness, builds strong muscle around the joints, and increases flexibility, muscle strength, cardiac fitness, and endurance.

Some of the exercises prescribed for people with arthritis:

o Range-of-motion exercises (stretching or flexibility exercises)
o Strengthening exercises
o Water exercises
o Recreational exercises
o Endurance or aerobic exercises

Physical therapy and exercise helps to:

o Maintain normal joint movement
o Strengthen muscles around the joints
o Strengthen and maintain bone and cartilage tissue
o Improve overall ability to do everyday activities
o Maintain weight to reduce pressure on joints
o Keep bone and cartilage tissue strong and healthy

Depending on the severity of arthritis, a physical therapist may suggest either isometric or isotonic exercises. A combination of manual physical therapy and exercise is more effective to reduce pain, dysfunction and stiffness in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.

Learn the Art of a Good Facial Massage

One of the best ways to keep your skin healthy and relaxed is to get a facial massage from an expert. It helps remove dirt and dead cells besides reducing the wrinkles on the face. A facial is an instant way to a glowing and dirt free skin. You can learn the art of a good facial massage if you want to make a career as a beauty specialist.

First, understand the types of facials and their benefits.

Different types and benefits of skin facial:

Facial has several advantages, which not only makes the skin glowing, but also keeps the skin-tight and wrinkle-free through the soothing massage. However, it is recommended to keep your skin type in mind before selecting a facial. Not all kinds of facials suit all skin textures.

Once you enroll in a beauty school, you would receive the training on the best facial treatment that suits a skin type.

a) Normal facial: This facial involves simple cleansing and massaging. A normal facial is good for people with a normal skin type that is not prone to acne or oil accumulation. Such facials are less expensive as compared to several other facials.

b) Acne Facials: This is a recommended treatment for teenagers and adults who are suffering from different skin problems, specifically acne. Such facials involve cleansing, followed by an enzyme or acid exfoliation treatment, and a warm vapor mist.

c) Special facials: These are special facials meant to improve your skin texture. According to the skin type, face packs are applied. This facial is recommended for people with a sensitive skin type.

Career as a beauty therapist:

With the growing demand and the desire to look gorgeous, the need for professional experts in saloons, health centers and spas have increased over the years. You need to browse through the internet and search for the best beauty school. Enroll in a reputed beauty training school to learn the art and science of facial and beauty. A number of institutes teach candidates to do proper make-up, how to act as a consultant for clients, give skin treatment, analyze the skin type and suggest the type of facial.

What you will learn from a professional course on facials?

• How to study the skin type of the client
• On skin allergies and how to deal with them
• Know about the various facial types
• Suggest the treatment that is best suitable for their skin type - whether dry, oily or acne prone.

Beauty therapy courses teach you about different facial techniques, both theoretically and practically. Get a hand on experience for a better exposure.

Facial is the first step towards being a professional beautician. Make-up courses give practical exposure to candidates to learn a-z on beauty. A degree from a reputed beauty school brings in excellent employment opportunities and lucrative salary packages.

Starting Out in Massage Therapy Careers

Maybe you've had a massage or you know a massage therapist, and you've thought to yourself that going into that line of work would be a lot of fun. So how does a person get started in a massage therapy career, anyhow?

The first thing you'll have to do is find out how much training you'll need to get before you can practice; these requirements vary by state. You might be able to get a license after only a few weeks of training, or it might take you a couple years. (The length of a program also depends on how much time you can spend on your studies; you might have to progress slowly if you're working full-time when you're taking classes.) With this information you can find a massage education program near where you live. A good idea is to get all the training you can-that is, surpass the minimum requirements-so you can get a higher-paying position when you're done with your education. Community colleges and special training academies offer courses in massage techniques, so find an accredited program that won't cost you too much in tuition.

It can take a while before you're earning a full-time living at a massage therapy career. If you're working on your own, you have the potential to make more money, so long as you market yourself efficiently. Be sure to take advantage of social media and other online advertising, and treat every customer as best you can so positive word of mouth about your business will spread. If you want to work for someone else, then you can find employment at airports, malls, spas and salons. The good news is that many positions for massage therapists should be opening up soon. Find online bulletin boards for spa and salon employment and post your name and contact information.

Another option is to become a traveling massage therapist. That is, you can visit customers at their homes. The advantage here is you can charge more per hour, and customers are sometimes more relaxed and receptive in their own homes, especially if they have to get undressed. You're also not cooped up in an office all day, which makes the week go by faster for a lot of people. The downside, though, is that you have to be really careful when you go into a stranger's home, and many massage therapists might find this practice to be at least somewhat unsafe.

Salaries for massage therapists vary greatly. Some massage therapists earn six-figure incomes, and other massage therapists barely are able to get by. The average hourly rate for a massage therapy session is about sixty dollars, however, so if you are self-employed and you have a large client base you can do quite well in this career. If you work for someone else, then the average hourly rate is about forty dollars, a sum that includes tips, which is still a healthy level of income.

Making Your Own Business Plan For a Massage Therapy Clinic

Knowing the basic massage techniques is only a small aspect of planning and running a massage therapy clinic. For your clinic to thrive, you must have some business skills to go along with your massage techniques as well. The most important starting point to determine your capacity to run a massage business is through a business plan for massage therapy.

Why a Plan is Important

For one to be successful in any endeavor, a plan is simply a necessity. Having one for such clinic will direct you towards more efficient and effective decisions as far as your business is concerned. A plan however is more than just a document to give you some peace of mind. Your business plan is crucial if you want to have a loan approved, if you want to convince a potential business partner or if you want to get sponsored support. A plan will tell the people who can help your business why it will pay to help you get your business on its feet.

The Basic Business Plan

Regardless of what business you're planning, a basic plan for massage clinic is still the same as any other basic business plan. If you stick to the basic parts, you can have a comprehensive plan that is only 7-10 sections long.

A business plan for massage therapy can start with your vision, mission, goals and objectives. This part will tell your reader what you want to achieve, why you think you can achieve that and how much exactly do your financial goals amount to and when exactly can you achieve those goals.

What follows the first section is a detailed quantitative explanation of how you can reach you objectives. You can move on to explain start up costs, assets, liabilities, strategic business location, service descriptions, analysis of competition, market analysis, market strategies, strategy implementation, advertising, balance sheets and cash flow analysis.

A business plan for massage therapy clinic should also delve into technical aspects of the business. You would have to deal with statistical or mathematical data covering market segmentation, profit margins, market demography, pricing strategies, income projection and impact of competition among others.

A Course

Designing your own business plan for massage therapy clinic may be attainable to some but the truth is, some people may find it harder to do than others. Taking a massage therapy course will help. The real advantage of going to school to learn massage therapy is that most formal courses and schools offer business subjects. Your massage school then is your first major reputable source of information on how to come up with a good business plan for massage therapy. You just have to make sure that your school offers a fair coverage of business related concerns in their curriculum.

Taking a Direction

Going to a massage therapy school may provide you with the technical information on the massage business as an industry but you will still have to pay your bank and lending company a visit for a list of requirements. This way, you simply have to construct your plan according to their detailed requirements. The internet also has everything you need from no fuss business plan software to different sample drafts and templates.

Aromatherapy Massage - Benefits

An aromatherapy massage combines the benefits of massage therapy with the use of essential oils.
They can have many different effects on the mind, body and spirit, and make an aromatherapy massage an uplifting experience.

Essential oils are an aromatic essence distilled from a single botanical source and are renowned for their sedative, stimulating and analgesic properties. They have many different therapeutic uses.

A few drops in the bath, for inhalation, or added to creams and lotions can be very pleasant, but the most relaxing and therapeutic use is through aromatherapy massage.

The Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage

Massage, dates back around 4,000 years where massage was used in traditional Chinese medicine where it was used as a healing therapy.

The benefits of massage affect the body as a whole and it particularly influences the activity of the following areas of the body:

Musculoskeletal, circulatory, lymphatic, and nervous systems.

Massage is a 'hands-on' therapy and there are many variations, ranging from a gentle stoking and kneading of muscles to firmer, deeper, manual techniques.

Many studies have shown that massage therapy is an excellent way of reducing stress. Many people from all walks of life enjoy regular massages for this reason.

With the correct techniques and the right blend of essential oils, an aromatherapy massage can provided symptomatic relief to a variety of problems.

Stress for example, can cause and exacerbate many chronic problems including digestive problems, migraines, hypertension, back ache and muscle tension.

An Aromatherapy massage can be an effective way of inducing relaxation, combating stress and ensuring continuation of good health.

Aromatherapy Massage - What You Can Expect

On your first visit for an aromatherapy massage, you will be expected to provide your therapist with in-depth information into your current state of health and wellbeing.

This is likely to take the form of an initial consultation. During this consultation, your therapist will need to ascertain if you have any illnesses or injuries that may affect the massage.

Your therapist may also want you to consider what factors in your life may be contributing to the symptoms you are experiencing. For example, backache or muscle tension might be related to stress at work or family worries.

The therapist will be looking to treat you as a 'whole' - mind, body and spirit. He or she will blend oils to relax and calm, to ensure you get the best from your aromatherapy massage.

A good therapist may also make suggestions for dealing with the issues that are contributing to your symptoms. They may suggest alternative forms of treatment or help.

Aromatherapy Massage - How does it work?

Armed with the information gathered from your consultation your therapist will select and blend essential oils that they feel best meet your individual need.

The essential oil blend will be added to a 'carrier oil' and this will be used for your aromatherapy massage.

During the aromatherapy massage, much of the essential oils are inhaled and absorbed through the mouth and nose stimulating the production of relaxing, sedative euphoric or sedative neuro-chemicals, providing beneficial mental and emotional effects.

Aromatherapy Massage - Choosing a Therapist

Massage is a very personable experience. It is important that you choose a therapist whom you are comfortable with, as you will be expected to remove some of your clothing, but only as much as you feel comfortable with.

Clear communication, understanding and consent are vital and you should feel confident to advise your therapist if any specific technique hurts, or you feel discomfort at any time.

An aromatherapy massage usually lasts about one hour, but can be shorter or longer on request. After the session, your therapist may suggest a blend of oils that you can continue to use at home.

The amount of sessions you have will depend on your personal circumstances. Many people recommend the use of aromatherapy massage as a maintenance tool to be used as often as possible.

Finding the right aromatherapist for you

You should take the time to find a therapist with the appropriate skills and training. If in doubt you should ask to see any relevant certificates of training.

There are various professional bodies that you can contact for details of aromatherapy massage and a number of organizations will provide an aromatherapy massage in the comfort of your own home.

Massage Marketing - How to Effectively Market Your Massage Practice

In virtually all of the massage therapy schools around North America, there is very little focus on how to actually market your services to attract new clients and run a successful massage practice.

As a business coach for massage therapists around the world, I find this to be a prominent weak link in the education of massage therapists and a major reason why so many of them struggle to succeed in private practice. Marketing and business development is a skill set that is absolutely imperative to have for any business owner. Your success in practice boils down to how well-developed this skill set is. Don't get me wrong- having a passion for massage therapy and being very good at your work is also important.

I have met many massage therapists, however, who are very bright, committed, and skilled healers but who are still struggling to build a successful private practice. This is entirely due to their lack of business and marketing acumen.

If you can relate to this dilemma, please understand that it's not your fault. The truth of the matter is that, unless you were formally taught marketing OR you have committed to learning this in the context of your current practice, you will find that marketing is a source of frustration, fear, burden, or resistance.

My intention is to help you change this pattern. After all, if professions like massage therapy are going to evolve into a higher level of mainstream acceptance and success (this profession has come a LONG way already but there is certainly room for continued growth), then individual therapists like you need to step up, become leaders, and learn how to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset.

Let's cover some basic tips on how you can market your practice effective and authentically:

1. Commit to the learning process ~ If you take the time to learn marketing, you will enjoy a distinct advantage over 95% of the massage therapists out there who are struggling to make it. I encourage you to read books by authors such as Seth Godin and Robert Kiyosaki. There are so many wonderful books and resources out there to help you improve your marketing skills.

2. Surround yourself with like-minded practitioners, entrepreneurs, and people ~ It is very true that the 5 people you are around the most will speak volumes about your belief system, financial potential, and mindset. If you notice that your friends struggle financially, that they make excuses, that they blame others for their problems, that they cry poverty... it's time to shift up your relationships and start attracting people that are a little higher developmentally than you may be, both financially and psychologically.

It's very difficult to renounce limiting beliefs and behaviors if we are surrounded by people reinforcing these low-vibrational qualities. Now, I don't say this to sound cynical-it's just what I have observed- but there is an epidemic of the poverty mentality in the massage therapy profession that likely begins on day one in massage school.

After all, a lot of massage instructors are teaching because they could not get their own private practice going. As a result, they transfer their own limitations and poverty mindset onto the students by telling them how hard it is to make it in private practice, that it will take 5 years before you break even, that you shouldn't expect to make more than $35,000 a year, that if you're doing this for the money, you need to find a new career.

These kinds of beliefs are running rampant through the profession. Is it any wonder why so many massage therapists struggle? They are at a disadvantage from day one when beliefs like this are instilled in them.

As you 'clean house' of the people crying poverty in your life, do the same with any attachment to beliefs you may be holding onto that reflect lack, scarcity, or struggle. After all, how much can you really help your clients if you are stuck in fight or flight survival mode??

3. Get a strong online presence ~ Let's shift gears and talk about the internet. Did you know that there are potentially thousands of people searching for massage in your area? For example, I live just outside of Denver and have helped a few massage therapists in this area with their online marketing. There are right around 33,000 people typing in 'massage Denver' every month into Google alone!

I mean, that is just insane! What this means is that you want to do everything humanly possible to position yourself in front of that massive audience. You want to have a beautiful website that perfectly captures the essence of your message and mission. Then, you want to do both on and off-page search engine optimization.

This is one area where you don't want to cut corners. If you are serious about generating new clients from the internet, invest in a highly professional website. You want nothing but quality and value shining off of your site. If the site looks cheap or like it was built by an amateur, it can actually work against you. Massage is one of those professions where the aesthetic component is so important. Image does matter and you want yours to be the best in your local area. Your website is the cornerstone of your professional image.

4. Master the art of networking ~ If you are willing to get out in your community and have a lot of selling conversations with people, you will never have a problem generating enough clients. The willingness to network really comes down to your mindset. If you are excessively shy, insecure, or introverted, this is going to be very difficult for you initially and you will need to do some inner work to set the right foundation for this approach.

But it is worth it! Networking remains the fastest way to grow a successful practice. You can join groups like BNI (Business Network International), the local Chamber of Commerce, or other lead groups in your area. You can attend after hours meeting, networking luncheons, or various community events that sponsor local businesses. These opportunities are plentiful in most areas; you just need to do the research and commit to attending one event a week if possible.

5. Create a schedule for success ~ Most massage therapists work too hard and get paid too little. Your schedule is always a metaphor for your mind. If it is scattered and inconsistent, it means you are holding onto limiting beliefs. You aren't valuing your work enough and you are likely giving your clients too much power in dictating how your schedule unfolds.

Your schedule HAS to be on your terms or else you will burn out. I recommend building in one day a week for marketing your practice, reflecting on your goals and your vision, and rejuvenating yourself. This is so important for your long-term success. Create a schedule that energizes instead of drains you, that builds momentum instead of stagnation.

I could go on, but I think this will give you a good framework upon which to get things moving for your practice. Good luck and keep me updated on your success!

Viewing The Body As A Tensegrity Model

I taught a?massage continuing education class recently, and in my explanation of how Rolfing and Structural Integration worked, I hearkened back to my education in the late 80's at the Rolf Institute. We were taught the concept of Buckminster Fuller's tensegrity model to explain our vision of Dr. Rolf's approach to massage therapy. R Buckminster fuller was an architect who developed the concept of the geodesic dome. As has been discussed before in an earlier post, a tensegrity system is characterized by a continuous tensional network, (tendons, in our case as bodyworkers) supported by a discontinuous set of compressive elements, or struts. The concept of tensegrity provides a conceptual like link between the structural system and the energy information systems. When we apply the concepts of tensegrity to the myofascial system which we palpate in a focused manner we deem appropriate to the client's needs, we gain a sense of the ability of our bodies to absorb physical impacts without being damaged. The force flows away from the original site of impact thought the tensegrity network. If the system of absorption is flexible and well balanced it will be able to absorb the various impacts more readily then an inflexible system. We can then hypothesize how our work may help to reduce injuries in athletes and other top notch performers.

So, grasp this for a moment, if there is disorganization in the fascial system, tensegrity explains how that shortness effects other parts of the "model". If you as a massage therapist learns to deal with the inflexibility in one part of the structure, those positive changes will effect other parts of the structure. In Tom Bowen's work "The Bowen Technique", the massage therapist "plucks" the tendon creating a vibration throughout the system which is interpreted by the homeostatic mechanism and adjusts the entire tensegrity system accordingly. That is due to the tensegrity system's vibratory continuum. We can then hypothesize that you can't effect the mechanical aspect of the system without effecting the energetic system. In cranial sacral therapy you have the ability to effect the entire structure by the simple fact that we are a liquid crystalline matrix where all parts are vibrating! Donal Ingber speaks volumes about how biochemistry is effected by physical forces. So you can extrapolate, how we as massage therapists have the ability to effect the biochemistry of an individual.?I loved the look on the student's face when she came to the realization of how potentially powerful her touch could be on another human's body!

Physical Therapy Colleges

Physical therapy education is offered in many colleges across the United States especially now, with its increasing popularity continuing to rise. There are different types of programs offered catered to meet the differing needs of students all over the world. For example, there are colleges that are mindful of the needs of working students and so these institutions decide to offer online or distance education. Other colleges decide to implement a six-year doctorate program for students straight out of high school.

So what college you go to really depends on your needs and the circumstances surrounding you. The factors you need to look at which may affect your needs include location, tuition fees, school reputation and affiliates (if any), size of the PT department, college ranking, professors, and the overall quality of education offered in that institution. The more meticulous you are with this decision early on in your career, the better off you can start your career when it's time to do so.

Currently, the American Association Of Physical Therapist requires a minimum of a master's degree in physical therapy before you can start a career as a therapist, in agreement with the rules of the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. In the coming years, these rules may change to require a doctorate degree in physical therapy instead, as an entry-level requirement for practice. Despite this, the popularity of physical therapy as a career continues to soar among students and even those looking for a career change.

One thing of note is that physical therapists are only allowed to see patients who are referred by other medical practitioners.However, with a doctorate degree, therapists can be independent practitioners, that is, they can diagnose and treat patients who are afflicted with disability, mobility, and motor function problems and do not need referrals from other doctors first to treat patients.

School rankings are a good way to help you choose where you want to go for your PT education. In 2008 the University of Southern Carolina (USC) topped the usnews.com list. The following schools were listed among the top 10 schools for Physical Therapy Program: Washington University in St. Louis, Northwestern University in Chicago, MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, University of Pittsburg, University of Delaware, US-Army-Baylor University, University Of Iowa, Arcadia University Pennsylvania and University of Miami.

USC offers a three-year Doctorate for Physical Therapy Program, which requires completion of 115 units in six semesters and two summer courses. The curriculum also requires participation in clinical exposure and experience throughout the three-year program. Finally, the dPT designation is awarded to students who finish with a GPA of 2.75 and who complete all coursework, requirements, and clinical clerkship in the three-year allotted time.

At the time of writing, the estimated tuition fee for this doctorate program in USC is around $120,000. However, this amount is subject to future increases. There are other options available as other mid-sized schools' tuition per year is pegged at around $20,000. This fee does exclude books, allowances and other course supplies though, but an education from a reputable institution does pay off in the long run.

So start your career in physical therapy off on the right foot by choosing among the best colleges around. It may take a bit of sacrifice, but the rewards are more than worth the early sacrifices.

Massage - Why Choose A Couple's Massage?

A massage is an outstanding way to relax and rid your body of toxins that congregate in the muscles. A good massage can rid the body of tension and help you feel better. If you suffer from chronic back pain, a good masseuse can relieve some of that pain with good technique. Massage therapy can find trigger points in the back and help to massage out those painful knots. The overall effect is feeling more relaxed and healthier. It is also proven that massage therapy will release the lactic acid that tends to accumulate in tight muscles and knots.

Why choose a couple's massage?

A couple's massage is a great way to relax with a significant other or with a friend. A couple's massage is usually held in a room that can accommodate two massage tables. They are usually in close proximity to one another. Some spas have truly amazing couple's massage rooms. They are equipped with facilities for multiple services like pedicures. Some even have fireplaces and serve refreshments. This can be a great thing to do with a close friend or sibling that you wanted to catch up with! The more exclusive the spa, the more elaborate their couple's massage rooms are. Some spas have multiple rooms for this type of massage because it has risen significantly in popularity.

Why do romantic couples choose a couple's massage?

This is a great way to unwind and connect while enjoying a therapy that makes the body better. Couples can talk and connect while they share a healing therapy. Some men also have less experience with massage then women. A couple's massage is a great way for a man to feel less intimidated by a massage because they are with their significant other. This time together is without stress, in a very easy environment. It sets a nice tone for two individuals to connect in a new way. This is a peaceful way to share an activity.

Most massages are more about the body work and not about the social piece. However, couples massages encourage two people to rejuvenate and have time together. A novel idea to be able to heal the body and connect to a loved one! Massages are great for issues that plague everyone. Soreness, knots, tight muscles, insomnia and arthritis are relieved through a good massage.

A couple's massage also takes some of the nervousness out of being alone with a massage therapist while naked. Many novices to massage feel very uneasy about this part of massage therapy. However, experiencing this with another individual makes it a lot easier to experience. It is also a great way to help a loved one or friend be introduced to the benefits of massage.

Conservative Treatments For Retrolisthesis

Retrolisthesis is one type of vertebral misplacement, or subluxation, that can occur in the spine. It is the backward slipping of a vertebra in relation to one above or below it. Retrolisthesis is less common than forward slipping, called spondylolisthesis. It occurs most often in the cervical or lumbar segments of the spine, as these are the most mobile.

A number of mechanical or external forces can cause vertebral misalignment. Conditions like arthritis and degenerative disc disease can cause a vertebra to shift. An injury, such as a hard fall, can sometimes jolt the spine enough to cause misalignment. Years of improper body mechanics can create enough stress on the spine to throw it out of alignment, as can being overweight. Blunt trauma can also cause the shift.

A number of changes occur in the back surrounding retrolisthesis. The joints that connect vertebrae are stressed when they become misaligned. The discs surrounding the shifted bone will be pushed toward the innermost part of the body and caused to bulge, providing inadequate shock absorption to the spine and potentially allowing friction between the bones. The slipping vertebra may begin to compress nerve roots exiting the spine. Soft tissue surrounding the shifting area of the spine - namely, ligaments and muscles - become stretched and injured.

Symptoms of retrolisthesis vary greatly depending on the degree to which the vertebra has shifted and whether or not it is impinging spinal nerves. Decreased range of motion and localized back pain may be felt. Tenderness due to muscle and ligament injury is possible. If nerves are being compressed, then sharp pain, tingling, numbness and weakness may be felt along the nerve pathway.

Treating Restrolisthesis

Many surgeons jump prescribe spinal fusion surgery as a treatment for subluxation. There are a number of safe, conservative treatments that should be tried before surgery is even considered, however. The goal of treating retrolisthesis is to realign the spine, and to do so, a number of things must be accomplished: 1) The joint must be mobilized to move the bone back into alignment; 2) the disc, if degenerating, must be re-hydrated; 3) surrounding soft tissues need to recover their tone in order to provide structural support to the realignment.

Chiropractic care is the best conservative option for restoring alignment to the spine. Chiropractors specialize in joint range of motion and alignment of vertebrae. If disc degeneration has caused your misalignment, or if the misalignment has caused disc degeneration, look for a chiropractor equipped with a decompression machine. Decompression treatments gently pull your vertebrae apart to increase intervertebral space and allow discs to reabsorb lost fluids. These machines have biofeedback technology that assesses how surrounding tissues respond to the pulling force exerted to separate vertebrae. If the pull is too great, your muscles will react by contracting against it, thereby limiting the effectiveness of the treatment for your discs and causing injury to the muscles. Biofeedback technology makes decompression treatments preferable to the simpler inversion table treatment for people with injuries like retrolisthesis.

Repairing your soft tissues will likely take more time than restoring alignment. Once alignment is attained, the stress on tissues will be decreased, but restoring tone to the tissues will be a process. Physical therapy may be needed to target overstretched ligaments and muscles. Simple core exercises, such as the bird dog, may be prescribed to ensure balanced core strength to support the spine.

Your best chance of recovering fully from retrolisthesis comes with education. Make sure you are not being sent out of the doctor's office with nothing but pain medications to mask the symptoms or rushed into the operating room when conservative options are available. Ask for a referral to a well-reputed chiropractor and begin the path to safe, thorough recovery.

Why You Need to Attend Massage Therapy School

There are plenty of people who are interested in massage therapy, but have a doubt in their mind as to whether this career path would be fruitful. One thing's for sure: If you're good at your job, you would always have a long client list.

These days, it's not just people on vacations that are enjoying massages; many people after a tiring day at work choose to call in their masseur or visit them. So, when it comes to scope, this field is definitely set to bloom. But, should you attend massage school?

Reasons as to why you need to attend massage school

You may say that you could learn the art of massage just by watching a masseur do his or her job; but, that's completely wrong. If at all you want to learn a skill, you're going to need to learn it right. In order to do this you would need to attend massage therapy school. Some of the key reasons include:

You learn a lot about the human body

There's a lot that you need to know when it comes to massage and the most important aspects include Kinesiology as well as the overall anatomy of the human body. Physiology is another aspect that you need to be familiar with.

You would need to know where the major organs, tissues as well as muscles are located in the body as you would need to know how to massage in order to ease a particular kind of pain.

Management skills

When it comes to massage therapy, you need to have amazing management skills as well because you would need to retain your clients and gain more. So, apart from being a fine masseur, you also need to be a perfect manager.

Touching people

Most people hate touching other people and still dream of becoming a masseur. When you go to ta professional massage school, they give you an opportunity to massage real people and therefore you get to touch people!

If you're not comfortable with this, you would either get used to it or would realize that the job isn't meant for you. Therefore, it's really helpful if you attend a massage therapy school - if needed you may get a sort of psychological talk to help you get over this phobia.

Communication skills

Another important factor that you need to develop is your communication skill; without it you're clients would be bored and they would eventually leave you. Hence, these soft skills are really crucial for any professional masseur.

Why Massage Therapists Should Dress for Success

Dress for Success is a popular adage based on sound advice ~ advice that actually works! More and more, I'm afraid, that saying is going by the wayside, particularly in regard to more casual vocations such as massage therapy. There are many reasons why massage therapists should Dress for Success.

I'm a keen observer of the world around me, especially when it comes to bodywork and bodyworkers. Over the years, I've witnessed enough examples of how not to Dress for Success that it would blow your mind. I'll share a few in this post to make my point; which is simply, when you Dress for Success, you're more likely to achieve success than if you don't.

I happen to live in an area teeming with massage therapists, and mobile therapists in particular ~ there's hardly a week goes by that I don't see a therapists carrying a table in or out of a session as I drive around town ~ and I've had therapists come to my house for sessions as well, so I have plenty of examples of how not to Dress for Success to share.

What if you were to put yourself in a new client's shoes? Not necessarily your client unless you fit the description below (and for your sake I certainly hope not!), but think of yourself as just a generic client looking for an in-home massage.

Let's imagine you've called a therapist and booked an in-home appointment with her. You've never met the therapist before ~ you either saw an ad, internet or otherwise, or someone referred her to you. You have a conversation with the therapist on the phone, she tells you her rate, let's say for fun it's $100 for 75 minutes, and you make an appointment. Before she arrives, you make sure your house is clean and tidy and you've showered, shaved and washed your hair out of courtesy for the therapist. You've sent the kids packing, the husband golfing and put the dogs in the backyard and turned off the phones. So far, so good, right?

The doorbell rings, and you, in your robe, peer through the peephole in the front door. You're expecting a clean-cut, well-dressed therapist ~ a professional ~ but what you see is an unkempt slob who looks like she just left the gym after a sweaty workout. If she wasn't carrying a massage table, you probably would not have opened the door, but since she is, you do. Open the door that is. In comes a woman wearing rumpled sweat pants, a t-shirt with a semi-lewd saying screen printed on the front and a small hole near the neck, dirty sneakers, and you're pretty sure her hair hasn't been washed in a week.

At that point, it won't matter if the therapist is Mother Theresa herself (in disguise as a bum) come to give you a massage, because throughout the whole session, you're going to be wondering why this slob is able to charge $100 a session when she obviously has no respect for her clients. Also throughout the session you'll be thinking about who else you can get next time because you don't want this icky person to come back. Chances are, you won't enjoy the massage and you sure won't remember anything good about it or her.

I'd like to say I'm exaggerating in my "let's imagine" scenario, but I'm not. Clearly, that's not how you Dress for Success.

Here's some of what I've actually seen ~ whether it's a therapist on the street as I'm driving by, or therapists coming to my own home that did not Dress for Success:

I've had a therapist come to my house who looked like she climbed out of bed and threw on whatever she found lying on the floor. I've seen a therapist pulling a table out of her car wearing short-shorts (I'm talking "no mystery" shorts), flip-flops and a wife-beater t-shirt. Seriously. I've seen therapists wearing tank tops and gym shorts, therapists wearing holey jeans, and therapists wearing hoochie-koochie mini-skirts and low-cut, tight-fitting spaghetti-strap tops with no bra. I've also seen more wrinkled (meaning, un-ironed) therapists than you can imagine. I saw a guy headed with his table into a private men's resort looking like he crawled right out of a dumpster. It takes all kinds, and I suppose that look is appealing to some, but I sure wouldn't hire him. Don't even get me started on dirty shoes. I've seen therapists wearing shoes that looked like they'd just been to a stable shoveling manure. I've seen therapists wearing sandals with chipped and peeling nail polish and... dirty toenails. Can you imagine yourself as a client looking at those gross feet through your face cradle?

I have to admit, just writing these descriptions makes my skin crawl. Even if any of those therapists weren't going to a paying client, but perhaps to a friend's house, my impression as a passerby was a terrible one, and obviously, it's a lasting impression. I've also seen therapists who were very impressive in their attire. Clean and crisp, carrying themselves with complete and utter confidence. I'd think, "Wow, that's a sharp-looking professional ~ that's how you Dress for Success! And... I bet they're really busy."

Now, I understand that being prior military where starch and shoe polish have been on my regular shopping list for the last thirty-five plus years, that I probably have higher standards for my work attire than most people. I understand that, but I also know that experience gave me a competitive edge over therapists who didn't have as high standards as I have. I know the first impression I made on a first-time client was one of a neat, clean, professional therapist.

That's really what the whole concept of Dress for Success is all about ~ making positive lasting impressions. Here's another popular saying: "The first impression is a lasting one." It's popular, because it's true.

I'm old enough to remember my parents always dressing to the nines whenever they went out for the evening, whether it was dancing, a party, the local bar or some special event. My dad, a truck driver in construction, wore a suit and a tie, and my mom always wore a dress and high heels. Yes, my truck driver father owned no less that seven or eight suits, numerous ties, dress shirts, and of course, his perfectly polished Florsheim shoes ~ a brown pair and a black pair. I used to marvel at his suits as they hung in his closet. There was the charcoal suit, the shark skin suit, the brown suit, the tan suit, the black suit, etc. Even as a truck driver, his pants and shirt were always ironed and his work boots always polished. My mom worked in an office downtown, and she always dressed to impress. I don't think it's a fluke that she was very successful in her career. What's interesting is that all of their friends, and well, pretty much every adult I knew dressed up when they went out where today people wear jeans everywhere for practically every occasion. The point is, how my parents dressed made an impression on me that has lasted my whole life thus far. That was a different era, indeed, but it always serves to remind me of how important it is to respect yourself in your attire, especially when you're engaged in running your own business.

I think my parents' lasting impression on me is why perhaps the easiest part of Basic Training for me was the ritual taught to me of caring for my uniforms. I always had the sharpest creases in my shirts, and even my combat fatigues, and my shoes and boots were highly polished to glass. In the military, whether you work at a desk or as a mechanic, whatever your job, your attire must be neat, clean, pressed and shined ~ always. Obviously, if you're in the middle of combat, not so much, but in the general work day, there are grooming standards you're required to keep. We were very aware of our standards at all times, and could often be found "grooming" each other, especially for an upcoming inspection. Yes, of course there were some who didn't take the standards seriously, but they were also the ones whose work was sloppy and showed a lack of pride.

Today, so many people are ultra casual in their dress for almost every occasion. When I was younger, I thought casual dress was everything, but now I'm not so sure it's such a good thing. Several years ago, I remember while visiting my widowed uncle in Las Vegas, he and my mom decided to go to a show on the Strip. They decked out as they always did; he in a suit and tie, my mom in a beautiful dress. When they got to the door, the ticket taker said it was so nice to see people all dressed up for a change ~ everyone else was dressed casually so they really stuck out from the crowd.

Because I live in a resort town, I do see an overabundance of casual wear, and I admit, I'm too often guilty of it myself. But I think too many therapists take that as meaning because everyone's casual, or because they work for themselves, or because they have a physical job, they can be careless in their attire; when in fact, the exact opposite is true.

When I taught massage, I was a stickler for neatness in my students' attire. I'll admit it, I was somewhat of a drill sergeant. Clean, stain-free, unwrinkled scrubs, clean shoes, clean nails, neat hair were a requirement in my class. I got a lot of flack from my students who thought that even having to wear scrubs was an affront to their sensibilities, but I didn't let it deter me from teaching my standards. Whenever we had practical finals, my students would line up while I gave them the once over, marking them down for stains, wrinkles, hanging threads, etcetera, which would affect their overall grade. The first line-up was a nightmare because they didn't take me seriously; and, as a result, they paid the price. After that first inspection, you never saw a neater, cleaner bunch of therapists lined up waiting for their once-over. What was more striking than their neatness was their changed attitude. The first line-up they were surly, with terrible posture and honestly, looked like hobos who didn't care. After that first disastrous line-up, they stood in their line proud as could be! Their posture was straight, their eyes beamed with pride and their overall demeanor was that of unwavering confidence. Even their practical massages reached a higher level of confidence!

Those students who embraced my strict standards for attire found it much easier to secure positions at the higher-end spas which have their own high uniform standards. High-end spas and hotels know their employees are judged on every aspect of their existence from what they wear to their behavior ~ every second of the day and night by their guests. As a result, they drill their standards into their employees, even having their own line inspections at the beginning of shifts. It's important to note that high-end hotels and spas aren't successful by accident ~ there's a reason for their standards. Dress for Success is certainly an important aspect of their own dress protocol.

The bottom line is this: If you want people ~ your clients, the public ~ to treat you as a professional, you have to act like a professional. Acting like a professional includes a lot of things, and dressing like one is right near the top of the list. Dress for Success doesn't mean you're to massage your clients wearing a suit or a dress, but particularly when you're going to someone's home, you want them to look at you and before you even lay your hands on them, you want them to have total confidence in you and your abilities. There's an entire experiential aspect to massage that goes beyond our hands. It's the feel of the table linens, the comfort of the table (warm in the winter, cool in the summer), the feel and aroma of the oils, the relaxing music, your touch, and... you. It's all incredibly important to the overall experience and it starts the moment the client opens their front door.

Whether your work "uniform" is sweats or shorts and a polo shirt, or even scrubs, it doesn't mean you can't take pride in your attire and yourself. A therapist arriving at a client's house who has bathed more recently than several days earlier, wearing clean, ironed clothes (or at the very least unwrinkled clothing), perfectly clean shoes, clean nails and neatly combed or styled hair is going to make a positive and lasting impression on the client. You can be the most awesome therapist with the most awesome hands in the world, but if you stink, if you look like you stink, if your clothes are wrinkled and stained... it won't matter how amazing you are, because your client won't want you to touch their body ever again. Remember, Dress for Success is a popular saying because it works ~ when you put it to work.

The Lowdown on Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is a technique used to promote relaxation and increase the natural abilities to heal the body. No matter if you suffer from lower back pain, muscle spasms, headaches, fatigue, or a host of other conditions, Massage Therapy has proven to be a powerful ally in your health regime. Often used as a complement to chiropractic activities, they work together to help restore optimum health to the body. No matter whether you are looking for a therapeutic treatment for stress and injury or just want to relax and unwind, one will not be far as it is a growing industry. There are several types of massage today. Here is the lowdown on just a few:

SPORTS MASSAGE:

The specific goal of this massage is to facilitate optimal recovery and to help athletes return to play after an injury. Generally the focus is on sport-specific muscles to improve the range of motion, flexibility, strength, and endurance.

THERAPY Trigger Point / Myofascial Release:

This technique is used when doing work with the fascia, the connective tissue covering the body. This deep, penetrating massage is applied to the fascia and trigger points to help eliminate pain, to free the muscle spasms, to fortify and extend the targeted muscles.

SWEDISH MASSAGE:

This classic form of massage is used to promote relaxation, improve circulation and reduce muscle tension. A traditional Swedish massage includes the following types of manipulation: the delicate touch of massage, soft petrissage, friction, vibration, percussion type movements, and movement of the joints.

NEURO-MUSCULAR:

This treatment concentrates on breaking the adhesions that attach to muscles and prevent nerves from firing. The result is that muscles are not as strong thus limiting extension of the joints. Patients find that these adhesions are fibrous, and the areas are tired plus pain and tension may be present.

HOT STONE MASSAGE:

This relaxing experience using hot lava stones placed on specific points on the body to open energy pathways called 'meridians'.

PRENATAL MASSAGE:

When a patient feels morning sickness, backaches, leg cramps, and any discomfort associated with pregnancy, this type of massage can help. Many trained experts can help you with comfort throughout pregnancy.

Of all the different types my favourite is Deep Tissue massage. I like it because it focuses on targeting the deep layers of muscles and connective tissues. It works by physically breaking adhesions by the application of deep strokes or friction on the aching muscle fiber. This form of massage is often used in the skeletal structures that are located deep within the body that have been subjected to muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries. It can be painful at first but as they say no pain no gain. I love nothing more than a relaxing massage after any long physical activity.

Job Outlook for Physical Therapists, 2011 and Beyond

If you're a physical therapist, you're undoubtedly someone who really enjoys being around and caring for people. Or, as one physical therapist we know once said, "I became a PT in part because I really get to spend time with my patients, about 45 minutes at least a session. I really get to know them." As a PT, you may want to know yourself how the job outlook for the next few years looks for PTs. The answer? Excellent!

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports in its Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 that employment for PTs through 2018 "is expected to grow much faster than average because of increasing demand for physical therapy services." In addition, the BLS continued, the "increasing number of people who need therapy reflects, in part, the increasing elderly population. The elderly population is particularly vulnerable to chronic and debilitating conditions that require therapeutic services." PTs often are compensated very well for their services, with the median average salary for PTs in 2009 running about $75,000.

Physical therapists earn every penny of their salaries. Let's take a look at a "typical" work day for a PT:

• Upon arriving at work, the physical therapist will look through the medical histories of the patients he or she is scheduled to see that day.


• Once with a patient, the PT will test the individuals balance and coordination, strength, range of motion, motor function, muscle performance, posture, and respiration.


• Looking at the results, the physical therapist then will determine the patient's abilities (with regards to independence and/or being able to return to day-to-day activities or work).


• Finally, the PT will put together treatment plans for the patient, plans that detail the physical therapy treatment strategy and the outcome the therapist expects as a result.

Karmic Release - Letting Go of the Chains That Bind You

Most of the people who are attracted to Tantra are on a journey, where sexual healing plays a leading role in their search for understanding, greater pleasure and satisfaction. The work has to do with the whole karmic persona. The human body is the medium. It holds the keys to one's liberation and expression.

Freedom can be beautiful and wonderful, especially when you release the karma that binds you. Many souls have been sexually initiated before their time. The early years can be better understood and reclaimed through touch and breath awareness. The challenge is permitting the letting-go process (receiving) and the holding on process (control) to share versatilely in the exchange. The work explains how to facilitate, integrate, and balance the exchange of receiving touch. This is accomplished by both of us staying karmically aware and in tuned with the process. Tantra awakens your body, heart, and spirit in an empathic way that is gentle and safe.

Many people shut off their feelings when touched by freezing their core muscles in connection with their breath. Quite a few pharmaceutical medications can interrupt the ability of the libido to function, blocking one's core response. Tantric massage and release movements facilities primal activation, rebuilding and repairing your directory, and data recovery from the past; thereby, updating your current program. Karmic release melts the glue, binding substance of excessive crystallization and collagen build-up between the connective tissue layers caused by stress and/or trauma. Local blood flow and exchange is improved, and an increase in hormonal circulation can take place producing greater health and performance for you. The process sets the stage for greater energy expression. I teach you breath awareness to enhance your primal, total orgasmic response. In general, people hold back on their expressive interaction by holding their breath and tightening their muscles. The work facilitates relaxation, and will help you to orifice breathe from your whole, gestalt being.

What Is The Quickest Way To Become A Physical Therapist?

"A modern hero is someone who can help and is willing to extend a helping hand to his fellowmen." Not everyone has the opportunity to earn big money and at the same time be able to help other people. Being a physical therapist allows a person to assist people who are injured or who has physical disability. Not every career provides this kind of opportunity that is why more and more people are thinking of having a change in career.

Life is actually not just about earning money. In fact, life does not revolve around money alone. It pertains to what one can do to improve the world around him. If you want to earn money so you can provide a good education to your kids, drive a flashy car, live in a decent neighborhood and eat healthy delicious meals then consider being a physical therapist. Of course being one isn't that easy. You have to invest time and money in order to earn your degree.

However, there is definitely a good way to earn a degree in Physical Therapy in a quick way. As you know, there are countless online programs that offer PT courses. These are the doors of opportunities for any person to obtain his PT diploma. If you want to be a PT you better consider getting your diploma online.

With the advent of technology it is now possible for anyone to earn a degree even when working full time. The use of internet enables any person to study in the comfort of his home or during his break time.

A physical therapy course would mean studying hard and coping with the intense and rigid training. The good thing about studying online is that you can manage your time your own rules. If you want to study during your coffee break, you can simply open your laptop and start studying. This is the convenience of online studying.

However, there is no free stuff when it comes to online programs. But the fee of online courses is far too cheap as compared with conventional classes. Aside from that you also need to make sure that you will meet the school's prerequisites. This will include taking up science subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics and the like. If you are still in high school it is recommended that you concentrate on these subjects as well as on the basic mathematics to equip you into the future when you enroll into PT.

Physical therapy is one of the most emotionally and financially rewarding career of this millennium. One cannot deny the fact that a career that pays well is something worth keeping for a lifetime. This is another reason why many people have decided to shift careers to being a physical therapist. According to a survey the satisfaction rate of most physical therapist is 70%, this is really high considering that majority of the jobs these days have only 50-50 percent satisfaction rate. Perhaps this is because it is normal for people to feel good when they are able to help other people.

Thai Massage - Origins, Techniques and Benefits

Thai massage has been practiced for several thousand years. It is one branch of Thai medicine, which includes manipulation (of which massage is a part), diet, medicinal treatment and ritual (spiritual ceremony). In Thailand it is used in conjunction with these other forms of treatment, although in other countries it may be used on its own.

Thai massage is based on the belief that all disease is due to an imbalance of the body's energy. Its goal is to promote this balance and therefore assist in the healing of the entire person. To do this, it uses several techniques.

The first is the application of pressure through leaning into the area being treated. This pressure is less forceful than that used in some other forms of massage and more like the pressure used in shiatsu. Also like shiatsu, Thai massage uses pressure along energy channels. (called "sen" in Thailand, but more commonly known as meridians - which is what they are called in Chinese medicine). The major difference between the two is that Thai massage treats these channels in both directions, while shiatsu moves in only one direction.

Reflexology is also part of a Thai massage session. Reflexology is based on the belief that points on the feet can be use to treat the entire body. There is a lot of attention paid to the feet and legs in Thai massage, because getting energy moving in these areas helps to better connect the client to the earth, causing them to be more "grounded".

Another technique used is blood stopping. This is achieved by putting pressure on a major artery in the arm or leg for an extended period of time - up to about a minute. The theory behind this technique is that cutting off a major source of circulation to an area will initially result in increased pressure, which will cause the heart muscle to slow its contractions in order to bring the pressure down. When the pressure on the artery is released a fresh supply of blood rushes into the area, causing it to relax more deeply. This technique, however, is not used on anyone with heart or circulatory problems or with diabetes.

There is also a type of stretching used which is passive. This means that the client does not participate in the stretching; the therapist does all the work. Stretching is done in stages with rest periods between, working gradually up to as much range of motion as possible. It is also done slowly to avoid the muscle shortening - or spasm - that can occur when a muscle is stretched too far, too fast.

The asanas, or postures, of hatha yoga are also included, to help the whole massage flow more smoothly. Like stretching, these are passive, performed by the therapist.

Thai massage techniques can be very time-consuming. A typical Thai massage is much longer than a "regular" massage, lasting up to three hours. Also, all Thai massage is done with the client lying on a floor mat; this is such an active massage for the practitioner that a massage table would make it difficult or impossible to perform some of the techniques.

The benefits of Thai massage include those of regular massage, like improved circulation, mobility and flexibility, as well as stress relief. But Thai massage goes further; its more specialized techniques will help promote balance of all the body's systems. If you are looking for a more holistic approach to bodywork, Thai massage may be a good choice.

Massage Therapy Classes From Beginner to Advanced

Find Massage Therapy Classes in the United States and Canada. Whether you are serious about becoming a professional massage therapist, or are simply curious about today’s array of available massage modalities, then enrolling in one of a number of massage therapy classes can help you to learn more about this fascinating healing art.

Massage therapy classes are obviously offered as part of an in-depth curriculum at any one of numerous massage schools, but did you know that there are many community centers and schools that provide introductory massage therapy classes to the general public as well? A matter of fact, students interested in the field of massage can get a "feel" for the art by learning the history and basic massage techniques extended through holistic workshops and seminars.

Though beginner massage therapy classes often involve practical training in Swedish massage, deep tissue massage and kinesiology, they will commonly include an introduction to range of motion and common musculoskeletal disorders and conditions. In more advanced massage therapy classes, extensive training is provided in highly developed bodywork modalities like meridian therapy, shiatsu (a form of acupressure), medical massage, geriatric massage, prenatal and infant massage, animal massage, Thai massage, craniosacral therapy, among others.

Individuals seeking certification or degree programs will discover that many massage therapy classes are geared toward an extended course of study that involves not only basic therapies, but general curriculums in business, pathology, pharmacology and even herbal medicine. In addition to classroom training, students participating in more advanced massage therapy classes will frequently gain practical clinical experience as well.

Depending on the program in which you choose to enroll, massage therapy classes often vary in time, curriculum and massage modalities. If you would like to attain State or National certification, you will need to review the school in question to determine if all massage therapy classes meet requirements to pass the State and/or National certification exams. While States differ in regulations, most massage therapy classes entail a minimum of 300 class hours; and to become nationally certified, students will need a minimum of 500 training hours.

As a career, massage therapists can enjoy rewarding incomes and diverse working environments. Professionals who have completed all necessary massage therapy classes and training can earn over $30 an hour, and can work in wellness centers, aboard cruise liners, in chiropractic clinics, nursing homes and other associated healthcare facilities.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding massage therapy classes, let career training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs [http://school.holisticjunction.com/clickcount.php?id=6634739&goto=http://www.holisticjunction.com/search.cfm] near you.

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The Risks and Benefits of Joint Mobilization Therapy

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

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

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

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

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

Is Your Massage Therapist Inviting Spirits Upon You?

I had a counseling client in our Tampa office recently (let's call her "Jill", not her real name) who was a beautiful young woman of Go. Jill had spent her life in the church and had recently graduated from Massage Therapy School. I listened intently as she spoke of the doors for demonic oppression she believed she had opened while she was in school.

Jill recounted how she became aware of the New Age infiltration into the school on the day they had Reiki Training. Reiki (pronounced Ray-kee) is a spiritual healing practice invented in Japan in the 1920's that claims that healing can come by laying hands on or above a sick or injured person. They believe that a Reiki master can draw universal healing energy into the person. Some of the Reiki practitioners are expected to seek a spirit guide as a spiritual master. As Christians, we need to understand that walking down this road will not lead us closer to Jesus!

During the class Jill was part of, they asked for volunteers who would like to have this healing energy channeled into them. She told me half the class was jumping out of their seats because of the descriptions used in reference to the process were calming, healing, peaceful oneness.
As my client described it, the volunteer ended up in a fetal position rocking in the corner of the room sobbing without consolation. At that point the Reiki instructor admitted that many times you will see that sort of manifestation after the energy is channeled in. Some people vomit, have types of seizures or start crying as this girl was doing. No one else volunteered after that!

Jill was well versed in demonic oppression and she knew this volunteer opened a huge door and there was no telling how many demons found a new home in her. As a believer of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit, her concern of course was, "How do you know what kind of energy is flowing out of the Reiki master". " Where do they get there energy from? " As a Christian counselor and deliverance minister, I would certainly say that the healing power was not from the God of the bible!

I was a volunteer at a Nursing Home here in town, and Reiki therapy is very prevalent there. They hold classes every month to teach the volunteers how to administer Reiki. One of the elderly volunteers told me that the next time I was there she would channel the "Healing Touch" into me. My spirit recoiled and I told her, "Oh that's okay, I believe in the power of the Holy Spirit for healing." She blurted out innocently, "Oh, this has nothing to do with that!" I heard the Holy Spirit speak loudly, "My people are dying for lack of knowledge" (Hosea 4:6).

I asked one of the patients I sat with weekly if they had prayed Reiki over her. She sat straight up in bed and said, "Yes, and I will never allow that again!" I asked her what happened. She told me that she indeed received an immediate peace and freedom from pain, but within hours it was back and seven times worse that it was to begin with!

I read an article recently in The Healing Line, written by Francis MacNutt of Christian Healing Ministries that the practice has been so embraced by many nuns in the Catholic Retreat centers that the Bishops released a statement criticizing and warning against its use as a spiritual healing technique.

The bottom line is this: if you are a Christian and receiving massage therapy, just be careful who lays hands on you. Ask your massage therapist lots of questions and always cover yourself with the blood of Jesus before allowing anyone to massage you. As Francis MacNutt so eloquently stated in his article, "We have to be very careful not to mingle the healing that we have in Jesus with any other healing powers." Amen!

Physical Therapy Software - Increasing Net Revenue Per Patient

With 35 employees and ten physical therapy clinics throughout central Missouri, Peak Performance Physical Therapy needed to find a way to solve its mounting IT challenges to avoid administrative and clinical problems. The group's existing patient care tracking and billing processes were simply not efficient for the rate at which the clinics were opening, and Peak Performance decided to take control of clinical documentation and reimbursement. By using a therapy software system, the group was able to increase the accuracy and quality of its clinical documentation, while improving productivity and optimizing reimbursement schedules.

Peak Performance now experiences a 35 percent increase in net revenue per patient visit - contributing directly to the group's profits and ability to expand into new regions. For years, all areas of Peak Performance's documentation process - including administrative and clinical functions - had been conducted manually, and it was beginning to show. This outdated process was having an effect on not only workflow efficiencies, but also on bottom line results. On the administrative side, Peak Performance was constantly at risk of losing money because the group often unknowingly scheduled visits that were not approved by the payor. If a patient was authorized for eight physical therapy appointments, but ended up meeting for ten visits, the group was not reimbursed by the payor and had to incur the expense of the additional two visits.

In their daily schedule, therapists would postpone the handling of administrative functions such as charting clinical notes to the end of the day, but with a stack of patient charts piled up, the quality of the clinical notes inevitably dropped. "It just wasn't an efficient system because the delay from treatment to charting would sometimes lead to not only poor documentation in the patient charts, but also incorrect and incomplete application of billing codes," said Phil Threatt, Administrator of Peak Performance Physical Therapy. From an accounts receivable standpoint, it was clear that the reimbursement process was ineffective and just not up to payor standards. Claims were regularly reimbursed at a lower rate, and were sometimes rejected altogether. "Physical therapy practices continually need to find ways to become more efficient and receive payments faster while providing great patient care," said Threatt. "Care and reimbursement are always intertwined and you cannot separate the two. We needed an outpatient information system that would bring the two elements together in a cohesive, fluid process."

The Solution After a long assessment process in which multiple outpatient information systems were evaluated, Peak Performance selected a software designed as a complete solution for rehabilitation clinics, and manages everything from scheduling, registration, management reporting. "We chose the the system because it is built for physical therapists, by physical therapists," said Threatt. "The company understands our market, challenges and nuances. This was a refreshing change from the other software companies who try to be all things to all people and sell the same practice management system to a physical therapist that was just sold to a pediatrician or OB/GYN. "We needed a specialized solution." Upon implementation, the system immediately solved Peak Performance's scheduling challenges because it automated the front desk processes through task prompts and intelligent drop-down menus. The group's administrative staff no longer had to worry about scheduling unauthorized visits, because the system actively notifies the user if a patient has met his/her allotted visits.

Their physical therapy software merges patient care and administrative aspects by providing a much needed structure in the way Peak Performance therapists enter clinical notes. The group's clinical notes are laid out against both short-term (2-4 weeks) and long-term (4-8 weeks) goals. When therapists create daily S.O.A.P. (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan) notes for their patients, the system prompts therapists through each step of the process. Therapists can then instantly track the progress of each patient, so they can justify directly to the payor, the rate at which each patient is reaching treatment goals. Because of the inherent flexibility of the system, Peak Performance's therapists have been able to customize the use of the software to their own documentation needs and past experience with similar information system tools.

"The support team assigned to us by the company has been very receptive to implementing our suggestions," said Threatt. "The company continually offers upgrades and added functionality to the system to make it more useful to our specific needs." The wireless, point-of-care system has enabled Peak Performance to increase revenue by strengthening its ability to capture and manage more complete and accurate clinical documentation. The group now experiences a 35 percent increase in net revenue per visit by limiting the clinical errors associated with poor handwriting, treatment omissions and unclean notes. "The therapy software provides us with an intelligent way to track the number of patient visits, referrals and treatment histories," said Threatt. "And, because scheduling, registration and reporting can be accessed from multiple computers and facilities through a secure connection, this solution just made more sense than competitive offerings based at an on-site server." Today, the group also uses the system as a self evaluation tool.

At any given point, Peak Performance administrators can use the physical therapy reporting functions to evaluate therapist and administrative staff efficiency, which can be an invaluable tool when trying to coordinate the workflow of employees across ten locations. "The software makes the parts of the job that therapists like least - documentation and administrative processes - easier," added Threatt. "With all of the automated functionality, our therapists have been able to spend less time on administrative processes and more time on what they do best... patient care."

Difference Between Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue Massage

People often tend to think of Swedish massage and deep tissue massage as similar to each other but the truth is they are quite different. Here is look at the difference between Swedish massage and deep tissue massage.

Swedish massage is the most commonly offered massage technique, utilizing a firm pressure on the muscles. It involves employing a series of long yet gliding strokes. In this technique the massage therapist also kneads the muscles and makes some vibrating taps on the body. The therapists concentrate on improving the blood circulation, easing the tension in the body's muscles and improving the muscles' flexibility.

Deep tissue massage is a type of massage that aims at affecting the deeper tissue structure of the muscles. It also affects the connective tissue, known as fascia. It utilizes a large number of similar techniques and movements as the Swedish massage, but the movements tend to have much more pressure. The deep tissue massage is a more focused massage. During it the massage therapist tends to concentrate on releasing specific chronic muscle tension as well as the muscular knots, or adhesions.

A Swedish massage is given to help with increasing the flow of oxygen in the blood as well as releasing toxins from the body's muscles. It can really shorten the recovery time for a muscular strain by simply flushing the lactic acids, uric acids, and other type of metabolic wastes out of the body tissues.

Swedish massage is given to increase the circulation of blood without actually increasing the workload of the heart. It helps to stretch the ligaments and tendons to make them pliable and supple. It stimulates the skin as well as the nervous system to soothe the nerves. It is helpful in reducing both emotional and physical stress. In fact the massage is a staple in most stress management programs. It is also included in various other therapeutic procedures.

Deep tissue massage helps with both small muscle injuries as well as chronic problems. Massage is an excellent way to deal with a whiplash injury or a sports injury. Deep tissue massage is helpful in treating spasms as well as muscle tension.

Physicians sometimes prescribe deep tissue massage for the pain of Fibromyalgia or Osteoarthritis. It also helps to correct posture problems.

A Swedish massage may involve the use of various oils, especially essential oils, to reduce friction as well as for their aromatherapy benefits.

A deep tissue massage also may involve the use of various oils or lotions, but their application is a little different from the Swedish massage. At times, for deep work, oil or lotion is not necessary, and the best effect can come without them.

A Simple Guide to Physical Therapy Schools

Physical therapists are known to enjoy numerous benefits such as satisfactory salary rates and ease of getting employment. While this is the case, the first step to becoming a qualified and practicing therapist lies in enrolling in physical therapy schools. Before beginning a career in this field however and settling down to enroll in any of these institutions, it is important to look at a couple of factors that play a major role in determining whether you get the most out of this career or not. This is because there are several schools to choose from and yet, they don't offer the same quality education.

Accreditation

This is one of the most important things every aspirant needs to consider. It is important to ensure that the selected establishment offers degrees and assistant programs that are legitimate and accredited by the well known bodies within your locality. Keep in mind that in order to graduate and work as a qualified therapist, you must graduate with a CAPTE program.

Programs and Degree Types

Depending on the area you want to specialize in, it is important to ensure you understand the different types of programs and degrees available. Make sure that the program selected is not only legitimate but worthwhile as well. The duration for these programs is also varied and this is another important consideration you need to take into consideration as well. There are those that have months of clinical studies while others last for close to 5 years. Always settle with an option that suits your needs to perfection. In essence, it is easy to find programs that meet your career needs if you take time to carry out thorough research.

Cost

Before settling down to enroll in any physical therapy schools, it is important to think about the average cost of the selected degree. The rates vary in accordance to the program selected and it is advisable to look at what is offered by different schools before settling down to make tour pick. Also, keep in mind that there are some programs that come with scholarships and you should also consider the possibility of capitalizing in this.

Structure of the Programs

In most cases, a degree will last 2 years for an assistant program and 5 years for a doctorate. There are sine core classes included in these programs and you also need to find out what these are before making your pick.

There are several factors that need to be taken into consideration when choosing physical therapy schools. These include working opportunities, location, licensure and graduation as well as students and the faculty.

Top Qualities of a Great Massage Therapist

The top qualities of a great massage therapist go far beyond the state requirements for granting a massage therapy license. Although professional licensing is a good start, it is far from the defining qualification of a great or even a good massage therapist. Even referrals from friends can lead you astray if your friend does not know what to look for. The following top qualities of a great massage therapist should help guide you as you choose a qualified professional to work on your body.

Advanced Anatomy and Physiology Knowledge -It is vital that your massage therapist understands where all the major muscles are located from beginning to end, the direction the muscle fibers go in and in what parts of the body pain referrals should be expected.

Cleanliness -Obviously you want a massage therapist who keeps a clean environment and keeps their own body clean. Getting a massage from an unhygienic person in a disorganized and unsterile environment might cause more stress and harm than good!

Good Table-Side Manner -While doctors and nurses work bed-side, massage therapists work table-side. The way your masseuse greets you, makes you feel at ease and communicates with you during and after the massage will greatly affect your overall experience. So find someone you're comfortable with!

The Intuitive Touch -An excellent massage professional will know what you need before you point to the specific spot, and they will not waste time on areas where you don't need much work.

Listening Skills -Communication is crucial before and during a massage if your therapist is going to give you the type of bodywork you want and need, but this means more than just talking. Your massage therapist must also be a good listener and able to have meaningful conversations about where you're feeling pain, where you're comfortable being touched, etc.

Love of the Job -Someone who seems to be annoyed that they are even working in the first place will not do a good job on your body. You need a therapist who loves what they do because this positive energy will translate to a better massage.

Institutions offering quality Massage Therapy Programs include American Institute, Cortiva Institute, Apollo College, Kaplan College, Keiser University, Utah College of Massage Therapy and Western Career College.

Replacing Your Massage Therapist With an Automated Massager

If you want a good massage, you don't have to go to a massage therapist all the time to get a good back rub. While there is nothing compared to a professional massage therapist, it can cause you a bomb to be going to your masseuse all the time.

I've been there and done that. There was a season of my life when I was aching so badly in my body that I would go for a massage at my local spa at least once a week so that I can sleep better at night. That really burned a big hole in my wallet, I kid you not.

Realising after sometime that wasn't really that financially sustainable for the long term, I turned to automated options. I discovered that there is a huge range of products in the market that help to relieve you of your body pains and muscle aches.

So I started going around testing some of these gadgets. I must say that many of them really work. They do relieve you of body tensions and muscle stiffness. In fact by now, I do own a couple of these devices as well.

Personally, I like devices that have a variety of massage functions coupled with heat therapy function. It's really neat when you have a electronic massager that can do different stuff like kneading, pounding, rolling, and vibrating. The variety really makes the massage experience a whole lot enjoyable.

If you are looking for an automated massager, do find out what are the different functions. A good automated massager will allow you to customise your massage experience with a fair number of distinct options.

I like massagers with heat therapy function as it really helps with my blood circulation. While the massage functions help to relieve momentary aches and stiffness, it is really the heat therapy that promotes long term well being in you body. A good massager will actually allow you adjust the degree of heat radiated.

Being able to customise that would be ideal. I once tried out a massage cushion with heat therapy at a local shopping mall. While the heat felt really comfortable during the ten minutes that I tried the device, I was in pain for a few days after that because the heat acutally burned some of my acne infected skin at my lower back.

Therefore, from my experience, it is important that if you want to invest in an automated massager that you get one that is allows you to customise all its functions.

Massage School Opens A Million Dollar Career for A Therapist

Massage Parlors and Spa are common. People go there for medical massage and also for relaxation. You may consider it's a luxury but it has therapeutic value. This chain of massage parlors can bring a truck load of money for an owner.
A certificate from a recognized massage school is helpful to launch a successful career in this career option. Professionally trained massage therapists are given a license, which allow them to practice anywhere in the world. You can take the course not only from massage school but from community colleges. It is not at all difficult to locate a massage school in your locality.

Massage is a natural healing technique which is being practiced by humanity irrespective of age, sex, color, caste, or creed, since time immemorial. Cave paintings show hunting expeditions and massaging the hunters after the hunt is completed. Massaging has been practiced all around the world as the most popular, scientific, and natural way to eliminate bodily stress and strain. Ayurveda, Unani, Allopathy, Naturopathy, Homeopathy, Tribal Medicine, and all forms of medical knowledge accept, and recognize the healing properties of massage therapy.

How to join a massage school

Interview some of the school's graduates and personally visit massage schools in your area. Discuss and satisfy yourself on their course hours, massage techniques, exams, and training facilities in classrooms, sanitary conditions, equipment for training, and the overall environment. This preadmission evaluation helps to determine which massage institute offer programs that are compatible with your own interests. You also need to know in detail licensing requirements and legal rules for the state in which you intend to practice.

The Department of Education of USA, UK, and Australia has approved several organizations to provide accreditation to massage schools. These accredited massage institutes get grants and federal loans through these organizations. Low interest education loans are helpful to would be therapist and also massage institute. Massage therapy business is big business requiring much investment. Hence, it is best to apprentice with a successful massage therapist to see if you really will like to practice massage therapy.

What You Should Know Before You Join Massage School

It is commonly known that conventional therapies like massage have only benefits with no side effects. This is one reason behind the increasing popularity of massage schools. Still, one must consider both pros and cons of massage therapy before deciding to become a massage therapist.

Massage therapy complements mainstream medical practices and adds a positive synergistic effect to patient treatment. Massage therapy is especially beneficial after a session of exertion like after a sports event, tiresome day work. A good full body massage session improves blood circulation; quickens the healing processes of the body; helps increased mobility in joints, releases toxins and alleviates pain.

A long massage session is a very challenging task and requires great upper body strength. A massage therapist usually has a fixed number of massage sessions they can handle in a day if they follow the classical massage practices. You can use latest massage tool and equipment to improve the massage quality.