Massage Therapy and The Obese Patient Part II

Obesity is defined by the American Obesity Association as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater. A BMI of 25 to 29 is considered overweight. Obesity affects at least 69 million Americans. Obesity is a chronic disease. Genetics and lifestyle both play a role in this disease. Obesity increases your patient's risk of developing conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, and cancers of the breast, prostate and colon. Recent research has also shown that adipose (fat) tissue produces inflammation. This new research has implications for the massage therapist.

Fat or adipose tissue is a specialized form of connective tissue which serves to store fat in the body in the form of triglycerides. There are two types of fat tissue: white fat which is important for energy metabolism, heat insulation and cushioning, and brown fat which is found between the shoulders in adult persons and predominantly in newborn babies. Brown fat is important for making heat. Fat is found under your skin. This is referred to as subcutaneous fat. Fat is also located on top of each kidney. The body "shape" of a person helps to point out additional locations of fat. This is often determined by genetics. Adult males tend to carry body fat in the chest, abdomen and buttocks - known as the "apple" shape. Adult females tend to carry fat in the breasts, hips, waist, and buttocks - the "pear" shape. Upper body fat distribution is correlated with the development of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and Type II diabetes. By measuring the circumference of the waist and dividing it by the circumference of the hips, you can determine if you or your client's are at risk. Ratios greater than 0.85 for women and more than 0.95 for men indicate increased risk.

Until recently, it was thought that the number of fat cells in the body remained constant once a person reached adulthood. Adipocytes (fat cells) are formed in the fetus during the third trimester of pregnancy as well as during puberty. Recent research has shown, however, that when fat cells become filled to capacity, precursor cells are told to differentiate producing even more fat cells. Once new fat cells are formed, they remain throughout a person's lifetime! Because adipose tissue produces inflammation, there are important implications in this research for massage therapists.

Inflammation is the response of the immune system to infection or irritation. It is characterized by redness, heat, swelling, pain and dysfunction of the involved organs. When an infection or irritation occurs to the body, the blood supply is increased to the affected area. The blood vessels become dilated and engorged which causes the blood plasma to leave them for the surrounding tissue spaces causing swelling. The tissue swells and compresses nerves. This causes pain. Without outside intervention, the body treats inflammation by sending white blood cells into the tissue spaces where they collect bacteria and other debris.

This action keeps infection from spreading. Once the inflammation has stopped, the body works to repair any damage by replacing damaged cells. Scar tissue forms where complete repair has not been possible. The mission of the massage therapist is to help heal the patient without causing further damage. Massage is contraindicated where it could further irritate the area or intensify the inflammation. However, massage can be used successfully on reflex areas related to the inflamed area and in areas proximal to the affected areas. Reflex areas are points that are not near the affected area but effect the area when stimulated. Reflexology is an example of a massage technique that uses reflex points. Acupuncture and acupressure also use reflex points. Proximal means "next to or nearest the point of attachment or origin" (Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary.) This means that the massaged area would be nearest the origin or attachment area of the muscles involved but not the inflamed area itself. This type of massage uses generally gentle but firm pressure.

Assisting patients with pain management can be an important part of a massage therapist's role in treating obese patients. Therapists may want to educate themselves on reflex techniques as well as review muscle origin and attachment points to best treat these patients.

The Uses And Benefits Of Massage Oil

When receiving or giving a massage it is always important to look into the type of massage oil that will be used. There are so many different choices out there to choose from when it comes to massage oils. There are of course the traditional oils that are designed solely for the purpose of a therapeutic massage and then there are the many more out there. There are the oils that are designed solely with sensual purposes in order to peak and enhance excitement between partners; then there are the scented oils which are made with idea of pleasing the person who is receiving the massage through their sense of smell. You have the thermal massage oils which will heat up upon contact with the skin to aid in the therapy of the massage. There are so many varieties and styles of oils out there it almost seems as if there is one for almost every need or desire out there.

Massage oils come in all scents, colors, names, uses and prices. Depending on where you are shopping for the massage oils that you desire will help in determining what kind are available as well as what the price and purpose of the oils are. If looking online at drugstore type websites then you will predominantly find oils that are designed with the sole purpose of therapy and relaxation in mind. Many of these oils will not be very expensive, but it depends on the ingredients and the presumed purpose of the oils that is the primary determining factor in the price of the oil. If you are looking for something that is more in the end of heating and in the arena of sensuality then you will be paying more for that product in order to receive the increased number of benefits that the product provides. One must also remember that not all products are created equally. You will in essence get what you pay for in most cases with these products. Many of these items made with a variety of different ingredients in order to get you the right balance and the desired effect of the oil that you are looking to use. However in most cases the more rare the ingredients in the massage oil then the more expensive the oil will be.

There are many factors that go into determining which oil will work best for you. Remember price is not always the determining factor when it comes to finding the oil for your massage. You must take into account the desired effects of the massage oil when choosing one. If you are just looking for a simple oil to give you a much needed tension breaking massage then you have a wide range of choices to pick from. It is when you get into looking for specialized products with specific intentions in mind that you come into the more narrow selections in oils. You can find what you want if you look for it and are willing to pay for the product that you want.

Equine Massage Therapist - Your Horse Will Love You

As with most complementary health care, equine massage, by itself, does not attempt to cure anything. It is used, however, along with conventional health care (veterinarians, trainers, etc) to enable the horse to perform at an optimum level.

So what are some of the Benefits Of Massage?

By increasing the animal's range of motion through massage therapy, the horse is once again working efficiently, with improved stamina, gait, and performance. There is less wear and tear on joints, ligaments and tendons. This equates to a longer performance life.

As humans, when we have overextended our muscles in playing a sport or doing a new exercise, we hurt. We tend to be a little "cranky". Irritable. On edge.

It is the same with horses. Their muscles have been overextended, and they hurt. And, they are usually unable to let you know where it hurts. Equine massage therapy has been found to improve the disposition of an animal in these types of situations.

Equine massage has also been used as part of a rehab process after an actual muscle injury. After the veterinarian has stated the appropriate time for healing has occurred, and to help the healing process, equine massage can be implemented. The stretching and proper exercise can help the healing process, reducing scar tissue.

Massage stimulates and improves blood circulation. When you've got the blood circulating properly, you are also helping to stimulate the elimination of toxins and waste. As well, you are releasing endorphins - the body's natural painkillers.

As well, some of the proponents of Natural Horse Training encourage massage therapy, especially for those horses that don't want to be touched. These horses are not used to human contact and are very defensive. These horses need a little time and communication via touch as the starting point of their training.

Equine massage is sometimes the only way to assess the physical condition of your horse. When you stroke your horse and discover a hot spot, or your horse backing away from your touch, or a spot where he flinches.

So, is equine massage worth it?

It is worth it on a maintenance level, you and your horse bonding, and as a part of the exercise program to keep the muscles in tune and to prevent injury.

It is worth it on a pre-event level, loosening and warming muscles prior to a competition.

It is worth it on a post event level, when the animal needs to cool down and avoid stiffening up and getting muscle fatigue.

It is worth it on a rehabilitation level, to encourage faster healing and recovery through increased blood circulation.

As we utilize our horses more and more rigorously, equine massage is proving to be more and more beneficial for both horse and horse owner.

Child Development Issues, Parenting and Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy is one of those professions where the job description is hard to define. If you ask some people what it is, a typical answer would be that an occupational therapist is someone who helps you get a job. Another common response is that O.T's help treat fine motor issues. Very few people really understand the nature of occupational therapy.

The profession really began when Eleanor Clark Slagel, a social worker, began treating patients who were veterans of World War I. We would say today that they had post traumatic stress disorder. Ms. Slagel found that if you kept the patient engaged in meaningful activity, their mental health improved. Their minds were kept occupied in this manner. Activities such as basket weaving, leather lacing and lamp making were introduced. Thus we have the confusion over fine motor skills. It was not the skill per se she was working on, but a way of eliciting better mental health. Today the goal of occupational therapy is to optimize the patient's activities of daily living (ADL's). This necessitates working with patients with mental health problems, patients with physical disabilities, and patients with sensory processing problems. A baby or child's job is to play, and go to school, as well as to socialize. Whatever problem might affect those issues is the domain of the occupational therapist. An adult needs to manage their personal life as well as perform on the job. If anything impairs these abilities, it is also the domain of an occupational therapist.

O.T. education programs are divided into mental health and physical disabilities. The mental health curriculum includes information about all diagnoses covered by the DSM IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual). Classes include information about medications and their side effects, and about which medications benefit which condition. The physical disabilities education curriculum includes anatomy (dissecting a cadaver), physiology, neurology, kinesiology, spinal cord injury and cognitive dysfunction. Many courses are taught by physicians. Once class studies have ended, the therapist needs to do an internship in both mental health and physical disabilities settings. Employment depends on passing a certification exam.

What all this means is that the occupational therapist is highly trained in many areas. Because O.T. is so broad based, it might seem a little confusing to people not in the medical field. The best way to understand the scope of occupational therapy is to understand how problems can impact activities of daily living. For example, if you injure your arm, how does that affect your ADL's? Well, if you can't put on or take off your clothes, or can't brush your hair, or can't prepare food, it is a problem that needs to be treated by an O.T. The therapist's job would be to rehabilitate the arm via exercise, and to retrain the muscles so that ADL skills can be restored to the pre-injured level.

So this is a long introduction to the real topic, which is about parenting a child who needs O.T. services. Over the years I have had the opportunity to treat very rare conditions and severely involved babies and children. I have probably treated hundreds of patients. What I found is that often times one of the biggest issues in the success of the therapy was in the behavior of the parent. For many years, I worked with a PT who was very good. We shared a case with a very involved baby who had ACC (agenesis of the corpus collosum). The disorder essentially meant that brain function was impaired. She also had myelination problems, which meant that her muscles were very weak. From day one the PT and I had a pretty good idea of what was wrong with this child. And for over a year, the mom insisted that the doctors said she was going to be okay. One day, while I was in the bathroom, I saw a medical report that had been forgotten on the sink. Of course it described in detail the official diagnosis - which is exactly what we had thought all along. Either the mom didn't think we could figure out ourselves what was wrong, or she was in denial, but her refusal to discuss openly what was wrong affected the therapy sessions. We couldn't treat her daughter as aggressively as we thought she needed, because the mom refused to admit anything was seriously wrong. Every time we broached the subject, the mom dismissed the conversation.

Conversely, I have had cases where the child had no marked issues and the parent was "over-treating". The mom would insist that there was something seriously wrong with her child, and she would spend time and money visiting doctors and specialists in an attempt to validate her beliefs. All the attention and medical intervention made the child nervous and high strung, which added to the mom's convictions.

Having a child with a problem, albeit large or small, can bring out a lot of personal issues with a parent. Family dynamics and unresolved emotional issues are entwined with the child's condition. If a parent is in denial, the child doesn't get appropriate treatment. If the parent "needs" to make the problem bigger than it is, such as the case in Munchausen by proxy, then the child is at risk as well. This is a condition whereby a parent literally makes their child sick in order to gain attention from the medical community and others. Parents whose attitudes are "what did I do to deserve this" can manifest in oppositional behaviors from a child who otherwise might be "normal". Moms or Dads who get frustrated or angry with their child because of their child's physical or emotional problems only serve to exacerbate the problems. Labeling a child who is not ADHD, but has hyperactive and inattention symptoms, into the ADHD category can stigmatize the child and cause self-esteem issues.

The overarching point I am trying to make is that an occupational therapist's training is sufficient for them to sift through all the extraneous issues and recognize the true nature of any child development problem. I have never treated based on verbal report by family. I will listen to what they say, and observe the family interactions with the patient, but my treatment is solely based on symptoms and clinical observation. If there has been a conclusive diagnosis by a specialist based on quantitative information, rather than qualitative, I will use that as well to guide treatment. But I have learned that parents can be too emotionally tied in to be able to give accurate advice. I listen to their concerns, and I empathize with their situation, but my responsibility is to my patient, and to administer appropriate care. My education gave me the tools that I need to be confident in my treatment.

Physical Therapy for Headaches

If you have frequent headaches, there are a number of possible reasons for that. Many of those reasons can be addressed by physical therapy, thus reducing both the frequency and intensity of your headaches.

There are actually several different categories of headaches, and within each of those categories, several potential causes. The headache category physical therapists have had the most success in treating is that of tension headaches. Thus, during your first appointment, your headaches will be assessed in an effort to determine which category they fit into. Tension headaches are most commonly caused by stress, fatigue, or poor posture, though they are also sometimes caused by problems in the jaw or neck.

One of the ways your physical therapist will help you determine exactly what kind of headache you have is by asking you a series of questions. One of those questions is simply, "Where does it hurt?" Typically, a tension headache begins at the back of your head and spreads to its top. It can also be felt in your eyes. Specific positions, such as sitting at a desk, may make these types of headaches worse, and rest usually reduces their intensity. Of course, your therapist will also ask you whether or not you have experienced any injuries to your jaw, neck, or head.

One of the goals your therapist will have in treating your headaches is to improve the mobility of your neck. A technique known as manual therapy, in which the muscles at the back of your neck are stretched, is used in order to accomplish this. Another goal your therapist will have will be to improve your overall strength. This will help to further stabilize your upper back and neck, which in turn will improve your posture. As a result of your improved posture, it will be easier for you to stand or sit for longer periods of time without experiencing any additional pain.

Another goal will be to help you modify your work space. You can actually already do some of this. Using a headset instead of a regular phone is a great start if you aren't doing that already. In addition, your computer screen should not be lower than the level of your eyes. You can check that right now. All of these tips will help you improve your posture which, as we mentioned, is a vitally important part of learning to manage your headaches.

If you or a loved one is suffering from Headaches, contact a physical therapist today.

Does Discount Massage Hurt Your Business?

Well, that question largely depends on your target audience. Are you seeking to build a client base with the budget conscious, or clients with a disposable income? Are you marketing to people who might get laid off at any moment, or are you targeting people who are financially stable? I once heard another massage therapist complain that certain clients would only come around when she sent out a coupon or ran a special. Well, I believe people will only pay as much as you think you're worth.

What's the deal with all these deeply discounted massage businesses popping up everywhere? In my opinion, they are a good business model based on a monthly subscription of massage treatments. The franchise model is easy to duplicate, and is the same everywhere you go. Massage franchises have a system and apparently it works. What does this mean for you and your massage practice? Absolutely nothing. If you think that competing with discount massage is the way to go, you'll be broke and burned out before you know it.

Are the discount massage businesses really my competition? I don't think so. These places have been going up for years and it hasn't slowed my business at all. The massage chains are not hurting my business because I'm not competing for their customers. The feedback I get from people who go to the massage chains are that the price is great, but the massage is a hit and a miss. The other feedback I frequently hear regarding the discount massage business is: "You get what you pay for." In my experience, most people would rather pay more for an effective massage than waste their money on something that doesn't make them feel any different or any better.

Who is your target audience? Do you target those people who are always looking for a bargain? If that's the case, you'll always be seen as the discount massage therapist. Do you really want to be seen in that light? I remember in a professional development class from massage school, we discussed how to price our services and how that reflects how we are perceived. I'll never forget when the instructor mentioned that once you start your prices low, You'll never be able to raise them. When your clients are accustomed to paying nothing, they will get upset when you raise your prices. These people will go to another therapist who charges nothing. If you don't value your services then why should others?

In conclusion, what I think it really comes down to is that, if you don't value your time or your services, neither will anybody else. I'm so grateful to have had that sage advice in the beginning of my massage career. I started my prices at the upper levels and there they've stayed for almost twenty years. If you're competing with discount massage, those places might hurt your business but if you're offering a quality product at a higher rate, there isn't a lot of competition out there. Now, if you just want to get your feet wet, you could start out at one of those discount places. You will make more flipping burgers and is this why you went into massage in the first place?

How NOT To Speak to or Treat Your Massage Therapist/Practitioner

Your communication with your therapist, et al service people tells a lot more than you think. It speaks volumes about your education of the service being provided, how you really feel about us personally, our profession, the purpose of massage therapy and its connection to your own health. Your gratuity, even in a bad economy, show us whether you value what's involved in treating you and the value of the work done. Sometimes we get the client who knows first hand that we are not paid what we are worth and will base our tip amounts on the value they think we should receive, not just based on his/her personal economics. Other times, we'll get the client who thinks $5 is enough gratuity on a 90-minute session, again, not based on his/her personal economics. A different message sent in each scenario. How do you communicate with your therapists/service providers?

Believe it or not, clients can often times be very abusive, condescending and outright rude in more ways than indicated below. As service professionals, it is the therapist's responsibility not to retort in kind, but we do reserve the right to do whatever necessary to maintain serenity and respect for our profession, our person and the establishment we work in. This might take several forms, but declining service to some might be necessary. Before we get there, however, one may wonder, what are some things that are abusive and will undermine your session, your therapists, and the profession? The following list should be helpful:

1. Saying "OW" (This usually is an angry sound and implies that we hurt you on purpose, which we have no reason to...)

2. Breathing angrily. We can tell the emotion behind the breath, but don't know why. Don't expect us to guess!

3. Scowling (Usually another angry reflection and we don't know why or what it means.). This is conveyed on your face and in your energy/disposition.

4. "Jerking" your body away from the therapist (just say you don't like something). If you are prone to "twitches" tell us this is involuntary.

5. Any kind of condescending tone demeans the therapist, your session and the establishment. You came to relax or be rejuvenated/healed. Don't forget your purpose.

6. "Chatty Kathy" is very distracting from the purpose at hand so leave her in the car. Therapists work better when not distracted by your stories. It is your right to respectfully request that your therapist only speak when necessary and my right to ignore comments as I commit to the work you have contracted or at least respond that I'd like to focus on addressing your therapeutic needs as precious time is passing.

7. Grabbing your therapist's arm, hand, legs or any other body part is harassment. Don't forget where you are and your purpose for coming for treatment.

8. Grabbing your own body part or moving in a sexual way is harassment. Parasympathetic Stimulation is normal and so is an "escaped moan or groan", but you aren't acting involuntarily if you start grinding your hips into the table, etc., or use our towels/sheets for sexual release after we have left the room. You should be using the 5 minutes or so left of your session to get dressed and exit. We have approximately the same amount of time to prepare for the next client and get to the bathroom before starting the process again.

9. Yelling, "you're hurting me!" (Would you like less pressure? We don't really know what you are feeling or whether you can handle it do we?)

10. Making racist or demeaning (blonde, etc.) statements are never honorable....even if I laugh with you it might be because I'm nervous or otherwise uncomfortable and don't know how else to respond in the moment.

11. Doing what you can to show me your nakedness is as much harassment as asking for sexual favors.

12. Asking "do you think I'm fat"? (That's not my purpose for being here and no answer I give is the right one anyway.) I could lose my job for any comments, complimentary or not.

13. Come on, you must get turned on by all these sexy men/women you massage! (Form of sexual harassment-not why "we" are here.!)

14. Not being considerate and gratuitous (You should tip your therapist more than you tip your waiter/bartender. They bring you food/drinks and leave then come back to take your plate. We must stay with you the whole time and physically and mentally make you, your body and health, the priority for at least one hour straight!)

15. Not paying your tab (or only paying a portion of your tab is horrible). Only a thief takes without paying for what he gets. You don't get to decide how much the service "should have been worth" or whether to pay next visit or now. The independent therapist or the business you patronize has a set price, which you agreed to when you contracted for service.

16. Telling the therapist you feel great and enjoyed your massage, only to leave, then call and complain. Most people do this to try to get a free massage but don't realize the therapist could get suspended or fired. This hurts more than you know. Be honest and considerate of this family.

17. Insisting that the therapist only work on one section of you the whole time. You might have a headache, but your feet are the source or vice versa, e.g. Trust your therapeutic therapist to know and do what's necessary to address the cause, not just the symptom.

18. We generally know when you "should be" in pain, so if every time we lay hand on you, you holler that it hurts, we won't be able to help you and so you impede your healing. A little pain might be necessary for therapy in that spot, but should not be unbearable. Can you bear up for a minute?

19. Manners are always important, but especially when dealing with service people.

20. Tell me what you like and don't like, but don't tell me how to do my job. I don't tell you how to be a doctor, lawyer, teacher, chemist, banker, etc. I have no training in that field, much like I trust you don't have any training in mine.

May all my fellow therapists/practitioners feel represented in this discussion and let me know whether I have left out anything. Hopefully, armed with this information, the general public will be in a position to choose the best therapist and get the best out of the sessions. Just remember that honor and respect should be a two-way street and gratitude extends the circle of giving. Communication, then, is the lifeblood of every relationship and the possible cure to all misunderstandings. Return positive energy for energy received. Namaste!

2 Types of Massage Best for Sore Muscles

Have you recently begun a new work out regimen or started training for an event such as a marathon or triathlon? If yes, congratulations! By now you are probably quite familiar with the feeling of sore and tight muscles. As your training continues, you are going to want to consider ways to soothe your muscles so your body can more efficiently and safely continue to stick to your routine. Massage offers wonderful benefits for work out enthusiasts. There are many different styles of massage; it's not all beaches and cabana boys when it comes to massage therapy for sore muscles. There is deep tissue massage as well as sports massage, and both have wonderful benefits if you are experiencing workout pains. But which one is for you?

Both deep tissue massage and sports massage are commonly used interchangeably, however, there are differences to these therapies. Depending on your level of training and the experience you are hoping to have, you will want to be educated as to what to expect from each type of massage. Generally, deep tissue massage is best for sore muscles from working out, whereas sports massage is geared toward athletes specifically to help prevent injuries.

For those who have begun working out as a New Year's resolution and you are battling sore muscles, a deep tissue massage is for you. Deep tissue massage therapy works into the deep layers of muscle and fascia where we start to feel "knots". Not only do deep tissue massages relieve muscle soreness, but this type of massage therapy also helps to release stress and tension in the body. Deep tissue massage increases the body's production of serotonin which gives us those feelings of happiness. Other benefits of this type of massage include break up of scar tissue, reduced chronic pain, increased blood flow and overall healing. Deep tissue massage is more passive than sports massage in that the massage therapist will move your body around as needed to get the muscle from a different angle so minimal work is done on your part.

Anyone who has signed up for a marathon, kudos to you! A sports massage is going to be your best bet to assist in your intense training. Sports massage therapy is best for athletes because it helps to prevent injury and loss of muscle mobility before and after your big event. As with most massage styles, you will also notice a feeling of reduced anxiety, which can be very helpful before the big race day. Sports massage utilizes more vigorous techniques to facilitate muscle healing and relaxation usually right before the event and then again after. Other great benefits for athletes with sports massage include detoxifying and cleansing the body of impurities, increased circulation in the body, and increased awareness of the important mind-body connection. A huge part of success for athletes comes from a psychological approach, and less anxiety and stress will lead to improved race times. Sports massage is more active than deep tissue massage and you will probably find yourself doing a mix of stretching and engaging muscles through your treatment in order to deliver the best results.

Once you have identified which type of massage is best for you, you will want to research licensed massage therapists near you. It is important that you are comfortable in your surroundings as the point of massage is to promote a healing and relaxing environment.

Massage - 5 Tips to Finding a Massage Facility and Therapist

Finding a Fort Collins massage facility and therapist is very easy for people in Colorado since there are so many in the city and in the state as a whole, but finding one with extremely high standards and quality of care can be challenging.

Understanding what to look for in a facility and therapist is the key to getting exactly what you want out of the therapy you receive. Lets look now at 5 tips that will help you find the right Fort Collins massage facility and therapist for you.

1. Make sure the therapist is licensed to practice massage within the state they are working in.

2. Does the therapist have malpractice insurance?

Here are two of the actual leading sites for therapists within the united states. The first is amtamassage.org, also this site contains a list of therapists who've been certified or licensed in massage therapy as well as who have a malpractice insurance policy for Fort Collins massage. The other one is abmp.com, and just as before it provides several individuals who have malpractice insurance and in addition to their certification has already been assessed. Not just any individual can call an insurance agency and state I'd really like to purchase insurance. They're going to request specific information like proof of proper education, state requirements, and so on.

You might also want to interview a Fort Collins massage therapist on the telephone. You'll be able to inform them of your unique therapy requirements and see how they react to your statements and answer your questions. Each massage therapist is unique, I'd personally say that being conscious of what is available is useful for the client so they are going to know in some manner what they are searching for, whether they are dealing with an injury from sports, automobile accident, workers compensation, or just basic muscle pain from day to day life. If they are attempting to cope with pain, chances are they might need to lean in the direction of somewhat deep tissue massage, neuromuscular therapy training, or even medical massage.

3. Does this specific therapy center or therapist currently work with insurance carriers and medical providers. It can be a nightmare working with the insurance providers yourself, weather it be health, auto, or workers compensation insurance. If you do not have the proper information in the order that they need it this procedure can eat up so much of your time and resources, it becomes quite discouraging. Find someone with years of experience in this field and you will have nothing to worry about because they will do it all for you as far as the massage therapy portion is concerned.

Finding a Fort Collins massage clinic that takes all 3 types of insurance is quite rare, most therapy centers today simply work on a cash only basis or only work with one type of insurance. With this said, be sure to search around to find the best fit for your individual matters.

4. The therapist must have advanced training and experience in treating soft tissue injuries. When you are working with a therapist specializing in medical massage they should be used to working with specific diagnosis from physicians, which many times include very complicated soft tissue injuries to the neck, back, shoulders, hips, and so on. A therapist with advanced training will have the knowledge base to work within the scope of the referring physician and they will also know advanced methods such as positional release, neuromuscular therapy, active/passive therapy techniques, trigger point therapy, deep myofascial release, and these are only a few that have been listed. Again, finding a Fort Collins massage therapist that has training in this many techniques can be challenging, but when you do find someone be sure to put them high on your list of contacts in your cell phone.

There will be times of pain in the body when this person will be your best friend.

5. The therapy must include client education and training in self-care techniques. The care you receive in any Fort Collins massage therapy center is extremely important, but what you take home and do on your own time is truly just as valuable if not more so. If you figure an average individual receiving massage will have therapy sessions twice per week for an hour at a time, this is only 2 hours of the week. This gives the injured individual another 166 hours for the week to be on their own and without the therapy. For this reason you must have a therapist that will show you techniques in stretching, postural changes, and actual manual therapy techniques that you can be performing on your own time. These steps will truly make the long term difference in pain relief and a much improved quality of life. So be sure to keep these tips in mind when choosing a Fort Collins massage facility and therapist.

The Health Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

There was a time when the thought of a massage would bring a spa to mind. A luxurious setting in a health club or at an upscale resort may come to mind. Times have changed and so has deep tissue massage therapy.

There is a variety of massage types. The general term means the manipulation and rubbing of the skin, tendons, muscles and ligaments. Therapists generally use their hands and fingers for massage, but may also incorporate the use of elbows and forearms to achieve the desired result.

Deep tissue massage uses a more forceful approach. The slow, forceful technique is used to target those layers of connective tissue and muscle that are deeper in the body. This is usually the method chosen for the relief of damage due to injuries. Deep muscle massage concentrates on realigning the deeper layers of muscle. While many of the movements are the same, the strokes are slower and deeper.

Although massage has been considered an alternative type of medicine in the past, it is becoming increasingly popular among professionals for relief of many conditions and various situations. People who have subscribed to the use of deep muscle massage will be quick to tell you of its many benefits.

Deep tissue massage breaks down the adhesions (bands of rigid, painful tissue) and consequently relieves pain and allows the client to restore natural movement.

During the massage, the client may experience some discomfort due to the pressure applied. The client needs to tell the therapist when the pain or discomfort is beyond their personal comfort zone.

The problems that are generally dealt with during deep tissue massage are:

1. Limited mobility due to injury or disease process

2. Chronic pain

3. Carpal tunnel syndrome and other injuries that may be caused by repetitive movement

4. Osteoarthritis

5. Whiplash, sports injuries or falls

6. Fibromyalgia

7. Muscle spasm

During the massage, the therapist will ask you to take deep breaths. This is done at certain points of the massage when the therapist is working on specific areas. The process will release metabolic waste substances from the muscles. It is important to drink a large amount of water following the massage. This will flush the waste from the system.

If you have never had a deep tissue massage, be aware that you should not eat a heavy meal prior to your appointment. You should arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.

Physical Therapy Treats a Variety of Injuries

Physical therapy has never been in such high demand as it is today. Treat patients with a variety of injuries, helping them recover from physical conditions that inhibit normal body functioning. Any injury that limits mobility or normal functioning is usually treated by physical therapy with the goal of returning the patient to normal functioning in every day activities. With a variety of techniques and equipment, physical therapists treat injuries that result from a number of different causes.

For instance, Often specialize in treating sports-related injuries that result from accidents in training, incorrect warm up or cool down methods, or trauma to limbs caused by a fall. Also used to treat chronic diseases such as arthritis and osteoarthritis as well as patients who require muscle conditioning and strengthening after surgery.

When a person receives a head injury or has a brain condition, PT can help restore any balance or mobility problems that may have resulted and PT can also help cure and alleviate muscle injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, neck pain, sprains, and lower back pain. And some techniques, called neuro-rehabilitation, can even help patients who have suffered from a stroke or spinal chord injury.

With an aging generation, the growing popularity of sports, and an increased emphasis on physical exercise, more people are incurring injuries than ever before, and as such, physical therapy services are becoming more widespread. And as physical therapists adopt new skills and techniques, almost any injury that inhibits normal functioning or mobility can be restored through physical therapy.

7 Steps to Conflict Resolution in the Massage Clinic

No matter how professional you are as a massage therapist, there will come a time when you will have to deal with customer complaints. This can be an uncomfortable time for both the client and the massage therapist, but a complaint that is dealt with well and in a timely manner can turn an angry client into a valued and regular customer. The best way to deal with complaints is to have a documented policy that details exactly how complaints are treated, so that no matter who takes the complaint, the issues will be handled in the same way every time.

1. Acknowledge the Complaint

Listen to the complaint with an open mind, and ensure that the client knows you are listening. Maintain polite eye contact and do not interrupt. When the client has finished, ask probing questions to get the full details of the complaint, and then repeat the complaint back to the client to ensure you have all the details. As hard as it may be, try not to take the client's complaint personally, but see it as an opportunity to improve your business.

2. Remain Calm

No matter the type of complaint, it is imperative that you remain calm. There is no point becoming angry with the customer and entering into an argument. Not only is this unproductive, but it will definitely cost you a client, and that client will have no hesitation in telling of their experiences with others, potentially costing you more clients in the future. Remain calm and civil, and ensure that you are profession at all times.

3. Document the Complaint Details

The complaint should be documented as soon as possible, detailing everything that the client is concerned about. This can best be done while the client is there, giving the details of the issue. This will also show the client that you are taking their complaint seriously and intend on following it up. Documentation should include the client's name, address, contact number, and the issues raised clearly listed and explained.

4. Make an Initial Response

When the client has made their complaint known, issue an apology to them for their trouble. Try to empathise with them, and see the issue from their point of view. Often, a client just wants to know that they are being heard, and by being sympathetic to their problem you are giving them what they require at the time. Follow this up by giving the client some options on how you will go about resolving their issue. Let them know that you have accepted responsibility for resolving the issue and that you will follow it up as soon as possible. Always leave the client with your full name and contact details as well as ensuring that you have their name and contact details.

5. Resolve the Issue

Often, once a complaint is heard, it may be possible to resolve the issue immediately. If it can be, do so within sight and hearing of the client, so that they are aware that you are taking them seriously. Sometimes, it may be required to ask the client how they would like the issue resolved, and this could lead to a compromise situation with the client feeling satisfied that they were heard and that the issue was dealt with in a timely manner. If the issue cannot be resolved immediately, ensure the client that it will be investigated and that they will be apprised of the outcomes. If this occurs, ensure that you always give the client a return telephone call and advise them of the steps you have taken and that the issue has been resolved.

6. Thank the Client

Ensure that you thank their client for their feedback, and again acknowledge that have heard their complaint and will investigate. Sometimes it is prudent to provide the client with some form of recompense as an apology, like a free voucher for a massage, or even a free coffee or movie. This will reinforce to the client that they are indeed valuable to you and that your value their patronage.

7. Prepare for the Future

Prepare a document of policies and procedures for your clinic, and ensure that you have a standard policy for handling complaints. Keep a record of all complaints, suitably filed, to act as a resource on how to deal with similar issues in the future, or highlight key issues that you may be unaware off. Furthermore, this record could prove to be valuable evidence of the steps taken to resolve issues if the matter is escalated and taken to court.

A clinic with a well thought out police for handling complaints will find that clients with complaints are not a problem that needs to be avoided, but an important avenue to ensuring that your business meets the expectations of those that patronise it.

Asian Massage Therapy

There are several forms of ancient Asian massage still being practiced in the world today. Asian massage techniques are ancient healing rituals developed over the centuries in India and the Far East. Thai massage, shiatsu and asian massage are becoming more and more popular in the west as more people become interested in pilates, yoga and other more holistic forms of exercise and relaxation.

Thai massage actually started in India. It is a form of massage using guided stretching and Meridian pressure point therapy in combination with an ancient breathing method called "Pranayama." This technique uses breathing techniques to relax and cleanse the body while strengthening the nervous system. Sessions usually end with a ritualized final relaxation that most customers find intensely restful.

Chinese acupressure or "tui na" was developed over 5000 years ago. By applying pressure to the body at certain key points, the acupressure therapist helps the body to activate its own self-healing abilities. Acupressure has been used for centuries to treat back pain, headaches and migraines, stress and anxiety. It is deeply relaxing and can have the added benefit of assisting the patient with weight management.

Japanese Shiatsu is another type of massage developed in the Far East. It concentrates on energy rebalance and physical well-being using the thumbs, palms and fingers to apply pressure to certain areas of the body. Benefits of this type of massage include rebalancing of the bone system, enhanced circulatory function, maintaining balance of the nervous system and greater skin and muscle flexibility.

Indonesian Javanese massage is a system of massage that uses all parts of the hand, including the knuckles, to knead and massage the muscles. Usually a massage oil is used to facilitate the therapy. This massage works on the muscles and nerves to relieve tension, back pain and aid in the healing of fractures. Of all of the Asian massages, this is the most robust, and the massage is often painful, although greatly beneficial in the long run.

Whatever your preferences, there are many ancient Asian massage treatments to choose from. Explore your massage options by adding one of these interesting and beneficial massages to your health regimen.

Additional Benefits of Massage

Touch is a unique way of humans in communicating affection and other messages. It is one of the five senses that is commonly used by health care providers in allaying anxiety to any ill person as well as the best non-verbal method of conveying sympathy when words fail the person. This is also encouraged by nurses and caregivers to use in caring for children at the hospital, especially the immature neonates. There are studies that gave credit to touch as one factor in helping the immature baby to increase weight and survival rate.

Four basic techniques of massage is usually taught to mothers at the hospital to be later on administered to their newborns. These techniques are (a) effleurage that involves long and gliding strokes of the palm on the skin, much like spreading a lotion repeatedly in order to enhance circulation, (b) petrisage connotes kneading motion of the hand by gently grasping skin and muscle and gently releasing to work on enhancing the development of a specific area of the body, (c) percussion, the application of vibrating, repeated motion to mobilize inner structures like back clapping to mobilize secretions of the lungs, as well as chopping motion in order to increase alertness and wakefulness and (d) friction is akin to rubbing motion of the hands on a specific body part to increase circulation to the area, thus increasing the temperature.

Massage has a number of benefits and can be categorized into biological, psychological and physical. One of the physical benefits of massage is its ability to increase range of motion of a particular limb. A person who had been confined to bed may have difficulty standing up and gain his balance. Prior to such attempt of movement, massage is done so as to increase the flow of the blood supply to the specific body part. When a muscle is relaxed, all the more that it is easy to move.

The psychological effect of massage is somewhat holistic in nature. Once the individual feels relaxed because the tension and stress of the day had been eased off by the massage, the individual who received the massage is more accommodating in listening to subordinates or colleagues. A feeling of lightness is also felt after a satisfying massage. Consequently, anxiety is reduced,

Torch Research Institute at the University of Miami conducted a study involving massage and concluded that children's immune system improved as evidenced by the increase of blood components in the blood further aiding the immune system to fight illness and infections.

Otherwise advised by the physician, the massage techniques mentioned are usually performed by mothers to their newborn to promote mother-newborn closeness as well as fast growth and development of the child. In times of illness, children who are frequently held and massaged are usually less fussy and recover much earlier than expected.

Adults, on the other hand, can still enjoy such experience through technological advancement in the presence of shiatsu massage chair and the likes. Such equipments are now readily available for the different needs of consumers, depending on the type of massage they desire.

Massage Therapist Salary

Let's talk about the financial side of being a massage therapist, namely the massage therapist salary! This is a guide for people who are thinking about becoming a massage therapist and would like to get a picture of what a professional massage therapist earns.

For starters, I will lead you through the system at our massage school, which is typical of many massage schools around the country (the United States). First, you can expect to find yourself doing massage for free during your clinical internship, which must be completed before you can become licensed and get paid to do massage. Happily, though, we were able to receive tips and this was quite welcome as we were mostly rather poor students. Upon graduation and licensure, we were able to continue working in the student clinic. This can be a big plus when you are starting out- for one, you are already familiar with the clinic environment. You know where everything is- massage oils, sheets, pillow cases, cleaning supplies.

Also, if your unpaid internship has been going well, you have built up something of a clientele. So now, whereas before you were getting tips only, now you are getting paid ($19 an hour in our case) PLUS tips. It's a nice jump in wages while doing the exact same work. I would recommend this to newly licensed practitioners if their school offers such an arrangement. The pay is low compared to the $60 an hour charged by therapists in their own private practice, but keep in mind that running your own practice involves considerable effort and expenses, and that in almost all cases you have to do a good job of marketing yourself in order to get clients. This may be something you want to hold off on until you get more experience and a better idea of how to create a successful massage practice.

Once you are licensed, the (massage) world is your oyster. The work, and hence the salary, you can expect depends on where you are located. Are you working in a spa? A hospital? Your own practice? How much do you charge/get paid? Do you work part or full time? All these (and more) factors will determine your salary. The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) reports that in 2008, a massage therapist working 15 hours a week earned an average of $31, 500- pretty good for working part time. AMTA also reports average hourly pay in 2008 to be $41.50.

A note to those of you who are considering a career in massage for the money- usually you will get clients based on the quality of your massage. If your heart is not into it, or you're just doing it to get paid, it's likely you won't succeed as a massage therapist. Massage is a field in which you can make good money, but usually only if you really like the work.

Physical Therapy Assistants and Aides

Employment opportunities for physical therapist, assistants and aides are numerous in today's challenging job market. Medical and scientific research has created the need for many rehabilitation services. Our population is growing older at a rate that will require the support of many health care personnel. These are just a few of the reasons that make the choice to pursue a career as a physical therapy assistant or aide a good decision.

Assistants work directly under the supervision of a physical therapists. The majority of their work involves direct patient care. They work with patients to restore or improve mobility or assist patients with pain management issues. They may use techniques such as exercise, electrical stimulation, massage, hot and cold therapy, ultrasound or traction to achieve these results. Orthopedic procedures such as hip and knee replacements are becoming increasingly more common. Assistants will often provide rehabilitation services to these clients. Individuals involved in trauma-related accidents also require the services of physical therapy for recovery. Therapist sometimes rely on assistants to offer teaching related to exercises that can be performed at home or to deliver instructions on how to use crutches or rolling walkers. Physical therapist assistants are typically required to document and report patient responses to treatments and patient progress.

Most states in the United States require a assistant to hold an associate degree. In addition, some states require licensure. The American Physical Therapy Association reports that in 2009 there are currently 224 institutions supporting 237 accredited physical therapy assistant programs. There are also an additional 44 programs in development for this educational program. Completion of a state or national examination may be required for licensing as a physical therapy assistant as well.

Compensation and Duties

The average annual salary for assistant and aides according to Indeed.com is $65,000. The U.S. Department of Labor indicates that the median annual earnings of physical therapist assistants were $41,350 in 2006. Payscale.com reports, however, that the starting annual median salary for a physical therapist is $38,118. Many factors such as geography, company size, and type of employer can effect wage indicators.

Aides work under the supervision of a physical therapist or an assistant. Their job duties are varied. They essentially are responsible for ensuring that therapy sessions run smoothly. They may transfer patients to and from therapy sessions. They maintain the therapy area with supplies and keep things clean and organized. Aides may also perform clerical duties such as scheduling appointments, ordering supplies, and filling out insurance forms. They may assist patients with dressing or undressing. An aide may weigh patients. Aides are not licensed so they do not provide any type of physical therapy with patients.

Educational requirements for an aide are a high school diploma or GED. Many facilities provide on the job-training for this position. Previous experience as a certified nursing assistant or home health aide could be beneficial when searching for this type of job.

The U.S. Department of Labor reports that in 2006 the median annual earnings of physical therapist aides were $22,060. Payscale.com indicates that currently the average annual median salary of three physical therapy aides is $18,581. Another source, CareerOverview.com lists the median average annual salary for an aide as $22,100.

Work places for physical therapy assistants and aides include acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, home health, schools, rehabilitation facilities, orthopedic clinics, and physician offices. Some physical therapists have private practices so this is another employment option. The working hours for these positions can vary a great deal. Some weekend work and evening work may be required.

Individuals interested in pursuing a career as a licensed physical therapist may find that beginning as an aide or assistant can offer a great deal of experience that can be helpful in achieving this goal. Working in the environment can help one feel comfortable with the terminology and procedures involved with physical therapy. This will surely be of help with educational and clinical requirements of a physical therapy program. Individuals who are considering a career as a physical therapist may want to explore this idea by first working as an aide or assistant. This will give a person a better idea of the actual day to day responsibilities of a physical therapist. This work experience is also a benefit when preparing a resume if one does decide to pursue a career as a physical therapist.

Mind and Body - Positive Effects of Massage

There is definitely more to massage than just getting the rest and relaxation that your body has been craving for all these time. Yes, while it's true that there is probably no more effective way to relax and recharge than to get oneself a pleasurable and sensual massage, research studies over the years have proved that there are more important benefits that one can acquire from getting a massage.

Since people recognize the healing power of touch, massage has been a frequent topic of a diverse collection of studies and research.

The mind is one area where the benefits of a therapeutic massage can be seen. Here are just few of the many mental benefits of massage:

• Stress Management. Experts show that a high number of health problems root from stress. Stress from work, relationships and day-to-day living contribute largely to many diseases. And because it's impossible to eradicate stress on the face of the earth, a good option is proper stress management. Massage is an effective way of managing stress because it allows to you to have momentary peace of mind and a relaxed mental state which are important in keeping yourself mentally healthy.
  
  


• Emotional benefits. It's easy to see how a calming and soothing massage session can give one's spirits a lift, resulting in much happier and more cheerful person and perspective on life.
  
  


• Satisfaction of craving for nurturing touch. Babies are not the only ones who long for another person's loving touch. Even grown-ups do. And because it's not possible to have everybody within a hug's reach every minute of the day, a massage will give you the nurturing touch you're unconsciously longing for.
  
  


• Reduction of anxiety and fatigue.
  
  


• Better sleep quality. It is for this reason why people diagnosed with insomnia love getting massages. Massage is way better than sleeping pills.

But the mind isn't the sole recipient of massage's positive effects. In fact, it also does wonders for the body and a person's physical state. Some of the countless physical benefits of massage include:

• Muscle relaxation. Massage has been found to dramatically reduce stress by relieving muscular tension and stiffness as well as aid in relaxation of the muscles.
  
  


• Pain reduction. Because massage can reduce muscle spasm and give comfort to aching muscles, those who have back pains or muscle pains often go to massage centers to alleviate pain.
  
  


• Enhancement of blood circulation. This is why those who are diagnosed with circulatory problems are often encouraged to get massage therapies.
  
  


• Improvement of flexibility, athletic performance and range of motion. It's not a surprise that many athletes indulge in massage. Not only does this improve their performance, it is also a good way to prevent injuries.
  
  


• Easy rehabilitation. A massage facilitates easy recovery from an injury such as a leg sprain.
  
  


• Treatment and improvement of some medical conditions such as Arthritis, Hypertension and musculoskeletal problems.

True enough, the value of massage therapy is priceless. With the countless of benefits one can get from a massage, it is just right to treat yourself with a session every once in a while.

Deep Tissue Massage Therapy Benefits

The What

As the name suggests, deep tissue massage therapy focuses on the deepest layers of muscle tissue. Through a series of carefully controlled strokes and applied pressure, the therapist attempts to release chronic tension stored in the body. Although it is a massage, deep massage is an intense and highly focused therapy that may cause slight soreness during or immediately after your treatment. When done correctly, this soreness should disappear within a day or two.

The Why

At this point you may wonder what the benefit is to receiving a deep tissue massage and that curiosity is well founded. When most people are searching for a massage they want a soothing experience and the idea of mild discomfort can be off putting. Don't be quick to look past this valuable service however because the ultimate benefits can far outweigh those temporary effects.

Sore muscles are frequently the result of inflammation and a build up of toxins within the muscle tissue. During your deep tissue massage the therapist will work the muscles to release the toxins and restore normal blood and oxygen flow to those regions of the body. Note: Because of the release of toxins, drinking lots of water after your treatment is very important.

The When

Deep tissue massage therapy is recommended for individuals that suffer from chronic pain, are involved in frequent physical activity (such as an athlete) or patients with physical injuries. This technique is better for clients seeking massage that will stimulate and treat chronic conditions as opposed to one time massage sessions for tension relief. This type of therapy is wonderful for those undergoing physical therapy and seeking additional or holistic pain relief.

The Who

Deep tissue massage should not be used on clients who have had recently performed surgery. Clients with cardiovascular disease or heart conditions should avoid this type of treatment as well as pregnant women or recent patients from chemo or radiation therapies. The intensive nature and release of toxins can cause serious ramifications with these conditions and should never be undergone without the specific consent of a physician.

The Where

Deep tissue massage therapy is available in day spas and clinics across the country. Don't be afraid to ask the credentials of your massage therapist. Remember that massage and bodywork is designed to ease muscle relief and can be a very personal experience - trust in your therapist is key to establishing a good and mutually beneficial relationship. Do not trust your body and heath to someone that has not received the proper training or you don't feel comfortable with.

Conclusion

Learning more about massage therapy and the benefits available to you is a wonderful way to seek out new treatments for your existing and ongoing conditions. Remember that deep tissue massage therapy is designed to be a healing experience for the body and can cause mild discomfort as your therapist reaches the deepest levels of muscle tension to release built up toxins. Learn about your therapist and ask questions about what benefits you can expect from this wonderful treatment!

Expensive Physical Therapy - A Discussion

Today we have Terry L. Whipple, MD, Chief of Orthopedics at American Self, author of several journal articles and textbooks, inventor and patent holder, entrepreneur, businessman and last but not least, vigorous patient advocate.
Dr. Whipple is here to discuss Transitional Physical Therapy, a DVD.

Q- What is TPT?
A- TPT is a rehabilitation concept on DVD that empowers patients to manage their own full recuperation from surgery or injuries and return to independent function. It supplements or extends supervised physical therapy that is limited by insurance allowances. And it stimulates patient recovery in their own home settings, using common household objects without professional equipment to gain the mobility strength and balance needed for work and play.

Q- Are patient's denied Therapy today?
A- Denied, no. Limited, yes. I've been in practice over 25 years and there are several realities we face. First, when patients are released from physical therapy they usually aren't fully recovered to resume normal lifestyle. Therapy continuation as an out-of-pocket expense is prohibitive. Compliance with and correct techniques for home exercise programs (HEP) are inadequate. We believe the value of Xerox copies of exercises is wishful thinking. Patients and employers have too many expectations and too little guidance. Patients need a transition period.

Q- Should APTA revisit its own recommendations?
A- No, but as providers we should understand the different treatment modalities as well as limitations our patients experience. Under the best insurance coverage possible, patients are asked for $90 a week in co-pays for up to 6 six weeks. This can lead to two potential problems: patients dropping out of therapy limiting recovery and development of complications from too much demand too soon in the workplace, playing field or home. Re-injuries are compounding and expensive...and frustrating to the patient.

Q- What's the economic impact to our patients?
A- Chronic pain conditions from incomplete rehabilitation can severely limit function. Productivity drops and absenteeism increases. Loss of income is no less important than repeated co-payments for additional medical or therapy visits. Self-esteem is diminished.
We all see patients returning to clinic with the same complaint 6-12 months following discharge. I've found the vast majority dropped out of therapy because of cost, inconvenience, inefficient or non-productive sessions.

Q- What's the economic impact to your practice?
A- Repeat and extended visits by those same patients cost me and my practice in new referrals, time for new patients, and reputation. Consider the patient that can't continue outpatient therapy-compromised result for him, but I lose productivity in new patient visits, subpar outcomes and possibly development of chronic pain conditions.

Q- How does TPT address this problem?
A- Patients can now have a home based active therapeutic experience every day. With a DVD I address correct rehabilitation exercise techniques affecting recovery more consistently, inexpensively and independently. My patients are now engaged in making outpatient PT more personally beneficial. They are more accountable. They do this for themselves. And because it's on their own schedule, they are more likely to comply.

I can now recommend 1-2 PT visits for 8-10 weeks. I decrease my frequency but increase duration if my patients need it because they have varied but beneficial therapy routines each day. It also allows for better utilization of our therapists.

Q- How did the concept develop?
A- I met with the principles of OrthoCareRN; the nation's only dedicated Orthopaedic Rehabilitation Home Health Agency. Their patient care experience confirmed the deficiencies I found. We needed to address cost, convenience, compliance and motivation in optimizing patient outcomes. I believe we accomplished this as well as assisting physicians with their productivity.

Q- What exercises are on the DVD?
A- We address the recovery process for each group the DVD covers. There is a variety of exercises for patient ability and preference, each with demonstration for perfect technique. For example, our Spine DVD is appropriate for everything from chronic lumbago to discectomy and fusion. The Knee DVD is designed for patients with any knee injury, surgical procedure or replacement. Hip covers joint replacement and fractures. All cover arthritis. Each DVD focuses on the essential components of comprehensive therapy- SSSRB: stretching, strength, stamina, reflexes and balance.

Q- Why the Home Setting?
A- People today turn to their DVD players for education, fitness, entertainment. It addresses the convenience factor our busy lifestyles demand. How often can a parent leave his or her work, family and social obligations for a two hour trip to therapy three times a week. It's no wonder compliance is compromised when convenience is an issue. And done right, no expensive professional training or exercise equipment is necessary. The DVD shows how to use everyday household items for benefit.

Q- What role can a physical therapist play?
A- They understand this situation better than most. If patients can't afford to visit my clinic we can't expect them to afford PT clinics.

Nine Reasons to Enter the Massage or Bodywork Industry

I wanted to compile a list of nine reasons one might want to enter the massage or bodywork field for people who are contemplating entering the profession. There are myriad reasons, and I'm sure every therapist today could give you a different list -- shorter or longer. I will concede that there are certainly more than nine reasons, but after pondering for a long while, I thought these nine points would best answer the question I posed to myself many years ago, "What are nine reasons to enter the massage or bodywork industry?" Ten is such a cliche number which is why I chose only nine.

1. Do you enjoy helping people, whether it's helping them relax or overcome injuries? Does making a positive impact on people's lives interest you? More often than not, people who will come to you for bodywork will always be happy to see you because they know they're going to feel much better at the end of the session. If that appeals to you, this field is a good one to explore. There are so many specialties and niches, too, within the massage and bodywork industry you could really fashion your business to fit your strengths and enjoyment.


2. Would you enjoy having an occupation where people look to you as a highly trained and knowledgeable professional who can help them feel better? While some people may have a negative or ambivalent view of massage and massage therapists, more and more people are looking to massage therapists, in particular those who are state or nationally certified as experts in wellness, to improve their quality of life. A certified therapist often enjoys an elevated status within their field; though certification doesn't necessarily make a better therapist out of a mediocre therapist, but it does tend to lend more credibility to those who are certified.


3. Are you more of an independent spirit who enjoys more physical work? The massage and bodywork is growing by leaps and bounds, providing numerous opportunities for those who aren't 9-5, sit-at-a-desk types. One area in particular that is most attractive to those who are more independently inclined is mobile massage.


4. Need a career that gives you flexibility, enabling you to run errands, pick up the kids, care for an elderly parent, or pursue other interests and/or hobbies? If so, the massage and bodywork industry has varying situations that give you options to help with your particular time management needs. If you choose to work for a spa or hotel, you'll most likely have morning, afternoon or evening shifts available, split shifts or a combination of some sort available to you. More than likely you'll have to work weekends, but while it's mostly the case, it's not always the case. Also, if you choose to work on your own, whether mobile or in an office or studio, you'll be able to set your own hours.


5. Do you like the idea of working in a posh setting, dealing with high-end clients? Talented therapists can secure jobs in four or five-star hotels where the pay is typically higher, the gratuities are significant and the surroundings are beautiful to magnificent. If you a lucky enough to secure a full-time position, you'll receive benefits that include health insurance, vacation (most hotels will offer discounted rooms in hotels within their brand throughout the country or even the world), sick pay and pension options.


6. Would you enjoy a career that allows you to travel the world? Massage therapists are an important commodity on cruise ships. It's not a lifestyle for just anyone, particular homebodies, but for the young, adventurous and unattached, it's an excellent way to see the world while working (and living) with people from all over the world.


7. Does a field focused on health and well-being appeal to you? While it's true there are therapists who get into the field only because of the potential of higher pay (which saddens me greatly), having no interest at all in health or well-being, the majority of people who get into the field enjoy working in an occupation that promotes a more healthy lifestyle. Additionally, people who get massages on a regular basis tend to be those interested in leading a healthier or more holistic lifestyle than the average person. Your options of the type of environment in which you'd like to work stressing health and well-being can include holistic spas, hotel settings, cruise ships, chiropractic offices or even hospital settings, peoples' homes and offices.


8. If you like the idea of working 20-30 hours a week or less, making the same or higher income than some people do working a 40 hour week, the massage and bodywork field is an excellent option. Not all massage or bodywork positions are created equal, however, so some will offer average pay, some lower and some much higher than the average job. What's the potential range of pay? Reasonable estimates would be from about $15-20 per hour to as high as $100 or more per hour. Obviously somewhere in the middle is more the average pay you could expect. Keep in mind, too, a typical massage therapist position is not a 40 hour a week gig with a steady income. You'll have ebbs and flows depending on where you live and in what environment you work, what the season is and of course, your level of skill and experience.


9. Do you enjoy meeting new people from different walks of life with interesting stories and lives? Whether you work in a spa or hotel setting or for yourself, massage therapy is a wonderful occupation if you are a people person. The people you massage can really expand your own horizons as you'll find some of your customers, as a form of stress release, will want to talk to you while they're having their massage, and will tell you interesting stories about their lives or businesses. Even if you're not necessarily a people person per se, this is an excellent field to explore because many of your clients will probably be sleeping through the majority of your time with them.

As I mentioned before, this list can certainly be added to, but these nine reasons to enter the massage or bodywork field, I believe, are a good start for anyone who is contemplating entering this fun and rewarding industry..

Buying a Portable Massage Table

Portable massage tables are the most popular kind of table for massage therapists. This is because they are lighter, take up less storage space, can be brought to clients' homes, and are cheaper than other types of tables. In use, they function just like stationary massage tables.

Popular brands include Earthlite, Custom Craftworks, and Oakworks massage tables. I own an Earthlite massage table and am very happy with it. It is durable, comfortable, and of good quality. In terms of weight, it could be a bit lighter, but with the weight comes comfort (more and/or denser padding). It's a trade off and massage therapists who bring their tables to and from clients' homes will have to decide how much weight they are willing to lug around.

Don't just go for the cheapest table you can find, either; I found out the hard way that you get what you pay for. I bought a table from Costco which I had to return because it was heavy, not to mention shoddy in comparison to the table I have now. This, plus it wasn't even that much cheaper.

If you don't have a lot of money to spend, consider getting a quality table used. Many times you can get good deals on used tables by looking on the bulletin boards at massage schools. A lot of people who go through massage school learn that massage really isn't for them. Meanwhile they have invested thousands of dollars in their massage education and are left with a massage table they will never use. Their mistake can be your gain as you acquire a slightly used, quality massage table at a considerable discount off the price of buying new.

If you are looking to save weight, consider getting a narrower table. Normal tables widths range from 27"-31", so look for a table on the low end of the scale. A narrower table will still accommodate most bodies. What it loses in width and stability should be negligible, especially compared to the weight you save. The main concern with going too narrow would be that clients may not have much room to rest their arms on the table when supine; when prone they can of course let their arms hang off the side of the table.

The final concern for people who will really be transporting their tables is to get a carrying case. This is a must for protecting your table and making it easier to carry. Your carrying case should have pockets for massage accessories such as massage table sheets/covers, massage oil, and your bolster.

Massage Therapy - Beneficial For Winter Activities

The air is getting crisp and snowflakes are beginning to fall. It's the time of year that skiers, snowboarders and other winter enthusiasts have been waiting for. However, when heading outdoors, remember that you are asking your body to do things that it hasn't done in many months. It is not uncommon for those who partake in winter activities to experience soreness and increased vulnerability for injuries. Incorporating massage into your winter wellness regimen will boost your muscle performance and help keep you healthy and injury-free.

Racing down the slopes on skis or performing acrobatics with a snowboard is an exhilarating experience. It also requires your muscles to stretch and work in ways that your body has been unaccustomed to during the warmer months. The heightened workload put on muscles can cause a burning sensation and soreness that lasts long after the event. It is also common to experience a delayed onset of pain and tenderness, which can disrupt normal activities. Injuries from twisting or falling can also cause soreness, as well as having more serious ramifications. A therapeutic massage can gently stretch muscles and relieve pain and tenderness.

Although a deeper, more pressure intensive massage is beneficial to athletes who are in training, the weekend athlete's muscles are not as conditioned. Therefore, a gentle, light-pressure massage is recommended for those who experience pain and soreness resulting from a day of skiing, hiking or snowshoeing.

Massage also provides other physical benefits, such as promoting balance of the muscles on both sides of the body. This can aid in athletic performance by helping to strengthen one's weaker side, thereby reducing overcompensation that could lead to muscle strain or even more serious conditions like tendonitis. Improved strength will lessen feelings of fatigue and increase endurance. Those who suffer from muscle spasms can find relief through therapeutic massage, allowing for more enjoyment of their preferred activity.

Massage increases circulation, which helps to carry nutrients to muscles and tissues while expelling lactic acid. Massage also promotes the removal of toxins throughout the body by encouraging lymph drainage. Massage gently stretches the muscles, improving range of motion and flexibility, which is an important component to injury prevention. If you do experience an injury, massage will reduce the pain and swelling, allowing your body to heal itself faster.

Therapeutic or sports massage can be an excellent way to promote muscle balance, strength and aid in injury prevention and recovery. Most resorts offer massage as part of their spa services, and the benefits are well worth the cost. The next time you are planning to enjoy your favorite winter activity, consider scheduling a massage to help you perform at your best.

Acrosage - Great Acrobatic Therapy

Acrosage therapy uses basic acrobatic stunts on the patient with acupressure massage therapy while being suspended in the air. Although this technique is similar to Thai massage and Yoga, its inversion method makes it one of the most unique forms of massage therapy.

Developed and trademarked by a circus performer, this type of therapeutic massage has been gaining popularity in the past few years. Acrobat Benjamin Marantz in the 1980s discovered the healing effects of acrobatic postures mixed with massage therapy on key points of the body. Soon after his success with this technique on his fellow circus performers, he began his street performance of acrosage therapy and even started his own school.

Today, there are massage spas that offers this kind of service to its customers as a pleasurable and relaxing technique in massage therapy. The aim of this therapy is to spread the body of the patient without carrying any weight in the process. The other objective is to carefully manipulate and maneuver each part of the body while being massaged in an upside down posture.

Unlike most massage therapy, this type of healing and body relaxing technique targets the positioning of the spine which carries almost all of the various parts of the human body. By correcting the spine, the other parts of the body can be simply manipulated in place. Decompression and alignment are the main goal when working on the spine of the client. This in return produces significant results which include a good posture, stress-free feeling, and relief from back and neck pain.

Aside from the spine, the hips, shoulders and even the neck are corrected and reset during acrosage sessions. The therapist evaluates and examines the condition of each areas of the patient's body and works on improving their position to enhance the flexibility of each body part.

Inversion therapy has been around for a long period of time and has been used as a part of the medical care all around the world. However, most of these techniques are prone to the risk of having a rush of blood in the head. Acrosage though is different from these other techniques as it delivers quite amazing results without endangering the condition of its patient with the flow of blood. Massage therapist who are practicing this technique are well versed on how the nervous system of the human body flows. They are knowledgeable enough in knowing where to press and put pressure during the therapy to hold and control the flow of blood within the body.

Acrosage therapy should only be done by an experienced and licensed massage therapist to avoid injuries from happening. The risks and contradictions involving this technique should also be given great importance before any of its benefits and effects. The good thing about this type of massage therapy is that significant results can be achieved even only after the first session. The same thing goes for its risks as this type of treatment is quite risky as compared to the other types of therapeutic massage.

What You Need to Know About Cosmetology Schools

Cosmetology school is an institute that offers different type of programs which are related to the elements of beauty such as hairstyling, skin care, grooming and general physical appearance. Various cosmetology schools offer different fields.

Today we are going to talk about different cosmetology courses, their costs and other related things to these schools. So, first of all let us take a look on the fields which can be offered by these kinds of institutes.

These schools offer diverse fields that includes; cosmetology, barbering, electrolysis training, massage therapy, skin care or aesthetics, hair designs, make-up artist training, permanent make-up training and nail technology. If you are interested in any above mentioned fields then there are many schools that help you to specialize in these various fields.

Whenever a person attends this kind of school, he or she would ask to select the field in which they like to train in. They also receive the detailed information about each field and its scope which really helps the students to choose a perfect field.

In these institutes you can get theoretical knowledge as well as hands on experience. Without the hands on experience, it is really difficult for the students to learn the use of different products and tools. After graduating from the school, the cosmetologists can write an exam for the state license. This license would be the general permit for cosmetologist. Actually it is very important to get this permit in order to work in a company or on your own.

Now let us talk about the costs of cosmetology schools. Actually the cost of the particular school is extremely depends on the location, type and standard of the school. The schools in big cities like New York or any major city of the world could cost more than the schools which are in relatively small cities. The type of program you choose will also greatly affect the price which you have to pay.

Nowadays the demand of cosmetology services is growing very rapidly. The cosmetology industry is also considered as the steadiest and most stable business in the world. The large number of salons and spas are opening every day which means that the people who have specialized in the various beauty skills will get jobs very easily. So, if you want to make some good money as a cosmetologist then these schools are perfect place for you to groom your skills.

How Much Does a Massage Therapist Make?

One of the biggest reasons that people are attracted to a career in massage therapy is that they feel they are able to help others in a meaningful way. It is a job that is in alignment with the core values of service to others. Many people long for meaningful work, something that really makes a difference in people's lives, and connects them with others.

There are so many professions out there that just feel lifeless to people. Many professionals today are walking away from stressful careers to find work they can be passionate about, even if it means making less money. Let's face it, most people trade time for money, and the question arises, what's more important, time or money? Is it possible to have both?

If you've ever had the feeling, while doing something you love, of time seeming to slow down and the feeling that you could do it all day, that's when you are in alignment. What an awesome feeling that would be to have while you work. Would that be work at all?

Maybe you don't know how passionate you really are about a career as a massage therapist. Let's look at what it takes to become a message therapist and what is expected of you. Prior to 1990 you could train as an apprentice or attend workshops, but now that the profession has grown it's vital to complete an educational training program. You also will need to pass the National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork after you graduate, as well as licensing requirements that very from state to state.

In a city a massage therapist can earn $60 to $100 an hour, and $50 to $75 elsewhere. Most practitioners consider 27 hours a week to be full-time work. It is physical work and that is something to take into consideration, hands get sore and you're on your feet a lot, it takes a considerable amount of energy. It's definitely not a career you want to just jump in to.

With the way things are changing in this economy there are many unconventional business models out there that are very lucrative, that require no schooling, do require some learning, but allow average people to create six figure incomes from home using only a computer and phone. Particularly in the soon to be trillion dollar 'Wellness Industry', there are many companies looking for passionate people to work with, providing the training and infrastructure to create substantial income.

Most people want to become a massage therapist, or enter similar occupations, because they are very passionate people that want to be of service, and that is admirable, the question you have to ask yourself is, do I want to invest the serious amount of time and money into becoming a massage therapist? Is it really your dream?

To find out about some alternatives to massage therapy please visit: http://www.NewEconomySecrets.com

Prostate Massage Therapy and Prostate Related Issues

Prostate massage therapy also commonly referred to as prostate milking definitely has a sizable ranking in the list of controversial health procedures, doesn't it? Many of us who has underwent the procedure or heard stories about it even from a simple Google search know the reasons why.

All in all, as prostate cancer and other prostate related issues continue to take center stage in many discussions especially those involving men's health, so does this health activity. This goes hand-in-hand with a prostate diet and various prostate supplements. Let's start by looking at prostate massage therapy.

Prostate Massage Therapy
This is a not only easy to learn, but also a safe and highly beneficial procedure that involves stimulating the male prostate gland to bring about either sexual stimulation or for a medical prospect. It generally results in ejaculation and with minimal health risks. However, we will learn about a few of them as we move on.

The prostate is located below the bladder and considering its closeness to the back rectal wall, you can stimulate it from the back at the back rectum wall or through the perinium. You might even have observed some of these from various massage videos. It is further worth noting how many medical practitioners are lately encouraging this procedure and even asking men to carry it out on themselves. This is obviously due to the many deaths and diseases that arise out of prostate cancer which is ranked among the top killer diseases affecting men.

An enlarged prostate is one of the indicators of required attention and it has in the past led to many men being referred to medical clinics or prostate massage therapists and being placed on special prostate foods. A proffessional is always a good idea for the procedure.

Various diseases, notably prostatitis have become a key medical concern yet the chances of this in particular illness can be reduced through a regular and proper prostate massage. Many health benefits have also been associated with this alternative treatment and it can be practised irregardless of the specific benefits being sought or health concerns at hand. However, some side-effects have been noted in cases of vigorous prostate massage such as haemorrhage and septicaemia.

Prostate Related Issues

Among the health issues related to prostate are:

- Prostatitis: acute and chronic.
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.
- Prostate Cancer.

Acute prostatitis is caused by bacteria and commonly causes fever, chills, pain between the legs and lower back. Pain during urination and ejaculation is also common and calls for medical attention. Chronic prostatitis is the repetitive form which comes back time to time with the symptoms lasting longer. It is also relatively harder to treat but it sometimes clears by itself.

Prostate health is mostly challenged by the above condition but if you a form a habit of getting regular massage to release the fluids and taking warm baths then you can be relatively safe from the various related issues. Early detection of any of the prostate related issues and start of therapy is also a sure way of reducing strife that would occur later as well as the complications. Prevention is better than cure, isn't it?

Massage Therapy and Chicago - The Cure For a Stressed-Out City

Some may argue that stress is prevalent in all areas of the world, but most would agree that big cities, with their concentrations of traffic, unemployment, and pollution, feature more stress than most other areas. While Los Angeles is usually at the top of lists of stressed-out cities, Chicago has had the dubious honor of being labeled America's most stressful city by Forbes for the past two years. Forbes's stressed-out city list for 2010 will come out soon, and while Chicago may not be at the top again, massage therapy will remain a constant for Windy City citizens looking to combat their stress and its harmful effects.

Forbes generally looks at issues economically, so, when determining Chicago to be the most stressful city in America, one of the main factors behind this statistic was the city's unemployment rate, which has been consistently higher than the rest of the nation. Fortunately, the unemployment rate has fallen in Chicago, but it's still a couple of percentage points above the national average.

Aside from high rates of unemployment, Forbes also places Chicago atop its most stressed-out cities list due to its poor air quality, falling home values, and generally non-sunny weather. Furthermore, Forbes mentions that stress is having an impact on the citizens of Chicago, with the high levels of stress leading to less sleep and higher levels of anxiety.

Fortunately, this is where massage therapy can help. Major health and medical organizations in America have shown that massage therapy can reduce levels of stress, anxiety, and the harmful effects they bring.

Furthermore, there are many great places to receive a Chicago chair massage, Chicago table massage, or other massage therapy service in Chicago.

Other factors, too, make Chicago a good place to be when dealing with stress, as people can make a trip to the beach or Wrigley Field to help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety they may be experiencing.

So, if you're not fortunate enough to work at a business that features a Chicago office massage provider for its employees, or if you can't find a job generally, there should be, at the very least, the option of going to the beach to relax. As research on anxiety and stress suggests, relieving stress with such an activity is important to do. Let's just hope the weather and traffic won't be too bad on the way to your stress-busting destination.

9 Key Questions For Finding a Hot Stones Massage Therapist

What do you as a customer want? Research shows that the formula is simpler than we might expect: low prices and good customer service. Price wars often cause a back-and-forth volleying between companies, about who can claim the lowest prices in town. So customer service typically becomes the key. We enjoy a tasty restaurant meal less, if we must wait an hour for it to be served. We lose trust in Laundromats that refuse to compensate us after ruining our favorite clothes, with huge bleach spots. And learning that the warranties for our electronics or appliances will not be honored, due to some fine print that requires a magnifying glass to read-can be devastating. Like other goods and services, how can we find the best prices and services for massages with hot stones?

Dollars and sense
As customers, we are typically satisfied when we feel that there is value in our purchases. From hamburgers to houses, if we feel that we got a "square deal," then the price is not an issue, per say. That said, we work hard to earn a living. Even if a good or service is a good deal, we may not have the cabbage, lettuce, cheese or dough (translation: money) to buy it.

How much should a massage with hot stones cost? It depends. Factors such as the location, demand, type of therapeutic massages offered, and a therapist's experience, can influence the cost. For example, prices tend to be lower in rural areas than in metropolitan ones. Also, day spas often offer more services (i.e. manicures, pedicures, facials, etc.), so their rates tend to be higher. You can also look for special deals for therapeutic massages. For example, some spas offer discounts for first-time customers, or for a package of massage sessions.

If you are satisfied with the massage, pay a little extra amount, or give the massage therapist a tip. I am a firm believer that competition breeds excellence, so I tip big if a therapeutic massage was relaxing.

Customer service is king
That brings us to the second important aspect of a massage with hot stones: customer service. The medical profession has recently been rediscovering and promoting an ancient form of stress-reduction: heat therapy. Massages such as those with hot rocks, have proven to reduce muscle tension, boost blood circulation, reduce heart rates, and improve one's overall moods.

Asking the right questions
When searching for an excellent therapist for a therapeutic massage, learn the answers to these questions:

o Which certifications do you have?

o How much have you been trained?

o How long have you been giving therapeutic massages?

o What types of massages do you specialize in?

o Do you have personal references?

o What types of products do you use, and can I buy them?

o How long is the massage session?

o Can I make appointments?

o Do you have discounts for referrals?

A "good" massage
You should consider several issues after receiving a therapeutic massage with a hot stone kit. For example, do you feel better? Also, were you satisfied with the therapist's personal techniques? Each therapist has his or her own "touch." Next, does your personality fit relatively well with the therapist? For instance, if you are a reserved person, you may feel uncomfortable with a therapist who is more talkative. Finally, did the therapist create a sense of trust? As with any other relationship, trust between the massage therapist and patient is vital.

"The customer is always right." We have heard that saying time and time again, but it still holds true. When searching for a therapist for a therapeutic hot stone massage, customer service and competitive prices are the keys to customer satisfaction. You work hard for the money, so you deserve to be treated rightly.