Saturday, July 27, 2013

Benefits of Massage Cushions


Now a day's most of the people especially who are working in offices, are facing problems related to back aches, neck aches and shoulder aches. They have to sit continuously for long hour at a single place. So it is very necessary for them to relax at the end of the day. Massage is considered as one of the best ways of getting rid from such problems. There are lots of massage cushions available in market for this purpose.

A massage cushions is useful equipment that helps in rendering a beneficial massage therapy session. These equipments usually perform a kneading massage technique by massaging on your neck, upper and lower back along both sides of your spine. With the help of it, you can begin your massage experience practically anywhere, on the sofa, bed, recliner, chair, or even on the floor.

Massage cushions are soothing, comfortable and also portable devices that are gaining huge popularity. These cushions help in providing relaxation to the whole body.

These equipments offer numerous benefits which are listed as under:

1. A massage cushion alleviates muscle fatigue and they are ideal for long distance drivers or for those people who sit for long time at a particular place.

2. They help in loosening tight muscles, joints and stretching connective tissues. They also help in reducing cramps and muscle spasms.

3. It improves and stimulates blood circulation and provides relaxation to the nervous system.

4. They even firm up muscle and skin tone.

5. It also improves lymphatic drainage of metabolic wastes and reduces symptoms of disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome, asthma, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, chronic, arthritis, and acute pain syndromes, myofacial pain, headache, and athletic injuries.

6. It provides freedom from chronic aching problems. It easily penetrates deep into muscle layer and helps in speeding up healing from injury and illness.

There are numerous companies in market which deal in variety of such equipments. Just beware of those companies which manufacture duplicate massage product. A wrong massage-cushion can create a lot of problem. They can also increase pain in back as well as shoulder. So, I will advice you to make an adequate research before you purchase any such product from the market.

Massage cushion is a cheap yet convenient way of getting relieve from neck, shoulder and back pain. It is basically designed to provide comfort and pleasure to those people who do not feel comfortable in going to a massage parlor.

Physical Therapy Assistant Salary


The physical therapy career remained immune from recession in 2008, and continues to produce a large number of jobs every year. This is due to the increasing aging population. Currently there are 110,000 physical therapy assistants working all across America. As per the survey by Outlook Magazine, the number of physical therapy assistant jobs is increasing at the rate of 45% every year and is expected to rise at the same rate for the next decade. Thus, this seems to be a promising field for all those individuals who are looking for a way to survive future economic turbulence.

A physical therapist assistant works in clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, and health-care centers and assists the physical therapist with the recovery of patients. Mostly the patients have restricted body movements due to some injury or illness. The physical therapist assistant performs various treatment and rehabilitation procedures on patients under the supervision of a physical therapist. A usual treatment plan includes applying an ice-pack, conducting therapeutic exercises, massaging, etc. It is important for assistant have good upper body strength as he has to lift patients and take them to treatment area.

In order to become a physical therapy assistant, an individual needs to complete a two-year Associate's degree from an accredited school and then obtain a license. There are more than two hundred schools that offer physical therapy assistant programs. Some colleges also provide online courses for individuals who cannot join regular programs. Students are taught core subjects such as medical terminology, introduction to physical therapy, remedial work, biology, etc. They are also supposed to participate in a summer training program in a clinic to apply the skills they learned and also experience the field hands-on.

A fresh graduate with a physical therapy assistant degree can earn an annual salary of $32,000. With increase in experience and certifications, the salary scale also increases. After 4 years of experience the salary is the range of $38,000 to $45,000. An individual with 20 years of experience can earn close to $60,000. The location of job also determines the salary of assistant. Those who work in Virginia earns higher than those working Florida and New york. Factors like cost of living and demand are responsible for this variation. One can also earn comparatively higher salary while working in home-health service facilities than working in physician's office or in schools. Nursing homes pays the second highest salary followed by government facilities.

Enroll With Quality Oriented Physical Therapy Programs


The physical therapy programs are physiology medical training procedures aimed at helping trainees in acquisition of the necessary knowledge in order to make them effective in aiding patients regain the ability to walk again. The nature of these programs means that they aim therapies and assistant therapists in horning in their professional skills. Any professional falling under the two classifications can apply to join the program. This is important because the program in a way is like doing an appraisal course. The end tail of the program is examinations. Once one excels in these examinations, one is certified and these means one can practice as a licensed professional.

There are a number of areas which are areas that the program addresses. First of all the program is aimed at ascertaining the level of the therapist's physiological knowledge. The science background of the candidate for this medical examination should be superb. This includes deep understanding of anatomy and kinesiology. One should also have perfect knowledge on how the body coordinates to bring about movement. One is also challenged on numerous techniques and their subsequent procedures. As a professional, one should have in depth knowledge on different techniques in order to be equipped in case the techniques currently applied are not effective. Such evaluating tests will help one understand the importance of close communication and understanding of the patient.

One should however be very wise when it comes to selection of the kind of institution that is offering the program. The school should be recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education. Medical institutions that have this accidental offer quality services and one is sure to excel in the field. Once one has done well in the physical therapy programs, professional possibilities are endless. One can have a private clinic. One can also get a well paying job in sports where serious injuries that can incapacitate a player occur. One can also be employed by the elderly whose anatomy is known to weaken with time. One can also enroll for the course online and take advantage of this invaluable undertaking. To ease the burden of tuition fees, there are student loans that one can take and help to pay part of the tuition fees.

The physical therapy programs are available both in physical classes and online. One should however be wise enough to select a school of medicine that is well equipped to enhance his knowledge on this branch of medicine.

Why Are There Different Styles Of Thai Massage?


There is Thai Massage. But this by itself is not sufficient to clarify what we are talking about. It is somewhat like saying "There is Christianity". Well - are you talking about Catholics, Protestants, Mormons, Born Agains... It is similar with Thai Massage. There is a northern style, a southern style, a royal style, the strictly traditional style and a whole number of styles that have been mixed with other Asian healing arts or with yoga therapy or energy work.

Why are there so many different Thai Massage styles? Why not just one? There is the saying "variety is the spice of life", and this is very true. Imagine if there was only one car, or one mobile phone - wouldn't you agree that it is much more fun if you have many choices? Just like you can match a car to your preferences, so can you match a massage style to your body and your likes.

Some people like strong massage, some soft, some like stretching, some prefer oil massage, and some love rocking massage. And then some people love foot work, some love abdominal work, others love head massage. I think I made my case why it is an advantage to have many massage styles and variations.

Here is another good reason. Once a therapist becomes seasoned and experienced, he or she does not want to just follow the routine which they learned in massage school. Massage is a creative, intuitive, graceful, flowing art, not a mechanical system of pressing or rubbing on predetermined points. Therefore it is natural that therapists express their creativity by developing their own styles.

This leads to an ever developing evolution of massage techniques. Without that there would be no growth, no spontaneity, no improvement. Of course there are traditionalists who believe that everything should be done like it has been done for hundreds or thousands of years. And that can also be a good thing. In this way a core style can be preserved and maintained as a bench mark against which newer styles can be measured. And some traditional systems are very good the way they are.

At some point every single massage system has been invented and developed by someone. And those persons were innovators. Innovators create, and traditionalists maintain. There is a place for both. The world would be a boring place without innovation, new creative ideas, and new styles and techniques in the massage and healing arts arena or any other field.

Thai Massage is often not practiced the same way in western countries as it is done in Thailand. The reason for that is that western therapists, unlike their Thai counterparts, have much more access and exposure to other massage styles. Therefore there is always a tendency to mix and blend and combine techniques. Therapists in Thailand have generally never been exposed to anything but the traditional way of working, and therefore you don't find much blending and changing in Thailand.

Also western therapists have often started out learning massage, and mostly Swedish massage, on a table. Therefore many of them have adapted Thai Massage to the table which of course changes it somewhat, and many blend Thai Massage with Swedish massage.

Personally I have studied Thai Massage in Thailand with several excellent and well known teachers. They all had their own style and their own unique techniques. And that is without blending Thai Massage with any other modalities.

So what style should you choose as an aspiring Thai Massage practitioner? This depends on 4 factors mostly:

1. What style do you most enjoy receiving? You will do best giving what you like to receive.

2. Which teacher do you resonate with? You will be most inspired if your teacher can bring the technique alive for you.

3. Which style works for you and your body? For example, if you study a very rigid style which relies on a lot of thumb pressure work, but your thumbs cannot handle it, then this is not the best choice for you. You will do better with a softer style. Or if you study a style which uses a lot of difficult stretches, but you are 5 foot tall, then this might be difficult for you. So make sure that you study a style that works for your body.

4. What is your objective? Do you just want to learn a few good moves to spice up your main style? Or do you want to learn and practice Thai Massage as a complete system? In the latter case it is much more important that you pick a style that suits you.

The best way to find out what works for you is to receive Thai Massage sessions from a variety of practitioners. In addition to getting general full body treatments, ask for specific therapeutic work and get a feeling for how they are being handled by various therapists.

The Ideal Physical Therapy Marketing Plan


Physical therapy marketing is a vital part of a successful practice. If you made the decision to become a physical therapist, you are no doubt excited by the power to heal. When starting out, you may not know how to begin your plan. How do you get customers to your clinic? Once you have established a practice, how do you tell others about your services? This is where the right marketing strategy comes to your rescue.

I am talking not only securing clients, but also keeping them hooked. You also need to use methods to attract new clients. If marketing is not your cup of tea, hire a  company to help you out. If you choose to do it yourself, here are some tips to help you pursue it effectively:

When you meet doctors, take the time to convince them of your abilities. Doctors are often asked to recommend a physical therapist, so take advantage of opportunities and work towards referrals. Ask physicians if you can demonstrate your techniques to them to gain credibility and promote a working relationship. Consider your physical therapy marking opportunities at every turn.

Try to be discreet about your marketing efforts. There is nothing like word of mouth publicity to generate referrals from your current patients. Adopt a bedside manner that makes your patients return to you and keeps your physical therapy marketing efforts worthwhile. Prepare yourself for additional workload, as the friends and family of former and current customers start calling your practice.

Find opportunities to market, such as public speaking. If you are having trouble establishing your practice, it may be time to consult with a professional. Qualified public relations teams have the skills necessary to take over your physical therapy marketing efforts and normally possess a great rapport with local media representatives.

Never hesitate to revamp your strategies. As time progresses, your current plan may become stale. To keep things fresh, consult with an expert regularly. Determine what's working and what's not, and make the necessary changes. Bring your practice to the next stage with a plan that is current and effective.

Massage Therapy For All: Simple Massage Techniques For Beginners


Massage therapy can do well to every part of the body. It has been used for so many years to relax and sooth pain and muscle tension. Anyone who wants to learn these massage techniques might be intimidated at first. It is a bit hard to picture one doing and performing professional massage therapy without formal training. But fortunately, there are simple massage techniques that one can easily master. One can truly wow his or her friends and family with these skills.

SIMPLE MASSAGE TECHNIQUES FOR THE HEAD:
- Open up the fingers of both hands until it looks like the tentacles of an octopus. Gently lay all the fingers on the top part of the head. Firmly and carefully execute circular motions on the scalp. Focus on a certain part of the head and stay there for a minute. After which, move along until all the angles of the head are covered and massaged. This is great for severe headaches, migraines and brain freeze.

- Completely and tightly close all fingers. Carry out mild and soft long strokes on the head. Start with the forehead and implement the stroke down to the back of the head.

SIMPLE MASSAGE TECHNIQUES FOR THE SHOULDERS:
- Open up the fingers of both hands until it looks like the tentacles of an octopus. Place both hands on one shoulder. Gently squeeze the shoulder. Work it from the neck to the tip of the shoulder's ball. Do this to both shoulders.

- Slightly close the fingers but not in a way that the fingers stick together. Stroke from the top part of the back of the head and separate both hands when heading to both shoulders. Designate the left hand to the left shoulder and the right hand to the right shoulder. Do this to 10 - 15 times.

SIMPLE MASSAGE TECHNIQUES FOR THE ARMS AND HANDS:
- Open up the fingers of both hands until it looks like the tentacles of an octopus. Place both hands on one arm. Gently squeeze the arm all the way to the hand. Make sure to this both on the top and bottom part of the arm and hand. Do this to both arms and hands.

- Perform long and placid strokes from the shoulder blade down to the hands. Do this to both arms and hands.

- When one gets to the hand, use both thumbs to do circular motions on the back of the hand. Use the other fingers to firmly poke the palm of the hand. Do this to both hands.

SIMPLE MASSAGE TECHNIQUES FOR THE BACK:
- Densely close both hands and position the hands on a lateral position. Do karate moves first on the top part of the back near to the back of the neck.

However, it is crucial to remember not include the back of the neck in this massage. This can kill the person.

- Execute long strokes from the back of the neck all the way down to the waist. Do this in a way that each angle of the back id affected by the touch.

Massage therapy can do wonders for the body. Learn these basic massage techniques and wow the family and friends tomorrow!

Friday, July 26, 2013

Massage Therapy - The Benefits of Massage


Massage has become increasingly popular over recent years as a way to unwind, relax and treat yourself. Many people even opt for massage every week and find that they benefit from it immensely. Having a massage can have many benefits to your body and overall well being. It has been no for centuries the great effects of massage and its healing capabilities. However it is only recently through scientific studies that we now know for certain the positive effects massage can have on our health.

First and foremost, probably the most important thing these days, is that massage can relieve stress and help you feel relaxed. Many people these days struggle to relax, unwind and have tense free muscles as a result of financial, work and family pressure. We are a nation of overworked people who have little time to unwind and enjoy the day. Massage can be a short term solution to this by helping you unwind and letting your problems melt away but won't completely fix the issue and you may find yourself needing another a week later.

Massage can also help alleviate pain and tension in your body. Many people suffer from constantly tense muscles as a result of poor posture, which isn't surprising when most of us sit in front of a computer all day long. Massage can help relieve these tense muscles for a short period of time, but to completely eradicate the problem a massage that helps align posture is more effective i.e. something like rolfing.

Massage also decreases inflammation, promotes speedy recovery from sports injuries or or injuries and also improves your circulation. As a result of relieving tension it will also free up energy making you feel less tired. It has also been shown to in case and strengthen the immune system, reduce anxiety and be great for helping women through "pregnancy pains"

Massage therapy has been shown to be great for a number of different conditions including arthritis, anxiety, back pain, chronic pain, acute pain, digestive disorders, depression, circulatory issues, headaches, sleep disorders, stress and many more. As a result massage is a great complementary therapy for anyone experiencing agonizing conditions.

However some people find massage therapy can be costly. There are ways around this, however. For example, many physiotherapists and chiropractors may offer you advice about the best electric massager available to help your particular needs. These can be an effective way to help yourself for a smaller cost and without having to rely on someone else to do it.

Whatever you opt for with massage will be beneficial to you overall well being, so is well worth the cost.

Massage Therapy and Chiropractic Care


Massage therapy complements the therapeutic effects of spinal adjustments performed by a Chiropractor by relieving habitual patterns of tension in the soft tissue surrounding and supporting the skeleton. These patterns of tension are sometimes referred to as "muscle memory." To achieve more lasting results from a chiropractic adjustment, it is helpful to address symptoms of stress and injury found throughout the body that may be contributing to the problem. Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) are trained to identify problem areas and relieve symptoms with a variety of massage techniques.

Soft tissue is composed of muscles, ligaments, tendons, and a thin sheath of connective tissue called fascia. Techniques employed by an LMT to address soft tissue tension or injury may range from gentle relaxation massage to more deep tissue work designed to break up scarring and adhesions. The benefits massage can achieve include the following:


  • alleviate pain caused by tension

  • soften and relax injured, tired, and overused muscles

  • reduce muscle spasms

  • increase joint flexibility

  • improve range of motion

  • improve circulation and the body's natural cleansing mechanisms

  • enhance immune response by stimulating the lymph system

  • provide pain relief from the physical stress of pregnancy, labor and birth

  • loosen tissue adhesions caused by surgery or trauma to the body

  • help the body recover from strenuous exercise

  • relieve migraine headaches

  • release endorphins and create a sense of well being.

The following describes some of the most common therapeutic massage techniques:

Swedish Massage - This is a gentle form of massage that uses long strokes, kneading, deep circular movements, vibration and tapping to help relax and energize you.

Deep-Tissue Massage - This massage technique uses slower, more forceful strokes to target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. It is commonly used to help with muscle damage from injuries and chronic patterns of tension.

Sports Massage - This is similar to Swedish massage but is geared toward people involved in sport activities to help prevent or treat injuries.

Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy - The word myofascial means muscle tissue (myo) and the connective tissue in and around it (fascia). When stressed or injured, muscles form trigger points, like contracted knots, that cause pain and tightness. This massage focuses on releasing tension held in these sensitive areas of tight muscle fibers that often cause radiating or referred pain.

Rolfing 簧 Structural Integration - Dr. Ida P. Rolf, a biochemist and Rockefeller University fellow, developed a system of soft tissue manipulation and movement education designed to organize the whole body to function optimally. A series of 10 sessions is typically recommended to achieve lasting changes in posture and structure by manipulating the body's myofascial system.

Active Release Techniques 簧 - ART is a patented, state of the art soft tissue system/movement based massage technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves. Headaches, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, shoulder pain, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, knee problems, and tennis elbow are just a few of the many conditions that can be resolved quickly and permanently with ART.

Thai Massage - This type of massage involves stretching and deep massage. This form of bodywork is usually performed on the floor, and the client wears comfortable clothes that allow for movement. No oils are used in Thai massage.

Receiving massage therapy before or after a chiropractic manipulation helps the body release soft tissue tension that can either be caused by skeletal misalignment or may, by contracting and pulling on the skeletal system, be the cause of it. While caution must be taken to avoid overstimulating areas of inflammation, another benefit of massage is to encourage lymphatic drainage, which assists the body's own efforts to heal itself.

Hot Erotic Massage Techniques For Foreplay Building Up to Great Sex


I remember the first time I gave a hot, erotic massage to a woman. I was quite young a the time and really nervous, almost overwhelmed when she took off her top and lay on the sofa. She was a little shy, so she lay on her front and I can still remember how her body jumped when I put my hands on her. I was really out of my comfort zone too and my hands started shaking as my fingers made contact with her bare back. Thanks to my older friends, I kept assuming that soon she would be overcome by lust and jump on me. Almost half an hour later, she put her top on and I took her to the station.

The whole walk I was wondering where I'd gone wrong, after all I'd done everything right, hadn't I? It was then that I decided to ask for advice from one of my more knowledgeable friends. I'd barely got through half of my description before he looked at me in disbelief and said,

"What? You didn't you lick her neck or back or anything?!?"

The point my friend had made was an awesome one: there is a world of difference separating an enjoyable back-rub from a hot, erotic massage!

Erotic Massage Techniques

So what actually is the difference? In fact the techniques used in both the back rub and the hot, erotic massage are similar. The key difference is your attitude. While a non-erotic massage requires technique, a hot, erotic massage with no technique whatsoever can still be a success if it makes the receiver feel more sexual afterward.

The reason I went so badly wrong all those years ago was because I forgot that the main purpose of a hot, erotic massage was the same as any other kind of foreplay: to give her a taster of what sex with me was going to be like. If you successfully show her that you can tease her and know all the right spots then she will know that you will probably be a great lover.

This is the other key to these kinds of massages, because it is a form of foreplay you will want to use the same techniques that you would use if you were giving any other kind of foreplay:

* Tease using touches that barely touch her, just brush her with the lightest touch. You want to make her want you to touch her more.

* Bring your hand close to an erogenous zone, but then move your hand over it without touching. This break with what she is expecting will get her tingling with anticipation.

* Look for area that have a lot of sensation. Any area that has a large amount of nerve endings will feel great when you touch it. The whole length of the spine, the armpits, sides of the breasts and neck all will feel great.

* Her breasts and clitoris can be touched either when she least expects it or by slowly building up to it. The tease is as important as the touch in this instance.

* Making slow circles that get smaller and smaller, moving in towards her nipple or clitoris is a great way to keep the touch up and tease her.

* Show her your oral technique by sucking, licking and gently biting her spine or the sensitive part of her neck. This should be a hint of what is to come and should use most of the same techniques.

The Not-Erotic Massage Techniques Section

While technique is not so important, it is worthwhile knowing some of the basic massage techniques. Any of these, if done with enough skill, can easily become hot and erotic too. Women love a guy who is dexterous!

1. Your hands are rough and her skin is really soft. Simple equation: rough on soft equals pain! Therefore you can make things infinitely better for her by simply using a lot of oil or lotion on your hands. Select a good, nice-smelling one for bonus points.

2. Look for what she responds best to and then use those areas to punctuate the massage (Usually the neck and shoulders)

3. You can probably touch her harder than you would expect, but make sure that you only touch muscle as a firm touch on bone is agony!

And that is basically it. Once a woman knows that even your massages get her excited, you will soon find that you can turn the massage into great foreplay that will make her want to jump on you.

Aromatherapy School Will Teach You About Essential Oils


An aromatherapy school will teach a modality of complementary therapy that uses herbs and plant oils (essential oils) to relax and heal your body. The oils are applied to the body through massage, but also the sense of smell plays its part in creating a positive change in your mood and illness. Aromatherapy and essential oils can help clients who are suffering from many different illnesses. A perfume makers discovery:

When first starting in aromatherapy school, students will probably hear the story about how this massage therapy was discovered. In the 1920's, a French chemist who was working on new perfumes in his laboratory, accidentally set fire to his arm. He put his arm into some lavender oil to put the fire out.

The French chemist discovered that the lavender oil helped his arm to heal really fast and did not leave a scar. So the chemist spent the rest of his life dedicated to aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy schools teach students about the different types of essential oils and what illness they help to relieve. For instance If the patient is suffering from burns, an aromatherapy student will be taught how they should use lavender oil, and also the quantity and frequency to apply it.

Many aromatherapy schools believe that aromatherapy is a science and should only be practised in a professional manner by aromatherapy school graduates. Although other schools teach the student to open up to there intuition as well. Which is seen by some as being the more balanced way.

Some doctors disapprove of aromatherapy:

There are some doctors who do not approve of aromatherapy and the aromatherapy schools that teach it. They also say that all that an aromatherapy school teaches is the ability to reduce stress. They also state that there reasons are based on the lack of any real facts or figures.

Does aromatherapy only give stress relief:

Some doctors actually agree some patients may have been helped by an aromatherapy treatment, however, they are quick to state, only because aromatherapy helped to ease their stress. For sure, stress can help to create a number of illness's and when stress is relieved, the illness is often relieved as well.

However, they also comment that aromatherapy is not as successful as traditional medicine when it comes to serious illness. This is the block aromatherapy experiences in its attempt to reach the public at large.

Whilst a lot of medical people do not agree with aromatherapy treatments, there are many people who teach this therapy who do, and there are figures that show lots of people are applying to be accepted by an aromatherapy school. In fact due to the increased popularity of aromatherapy, there are more schools opening in cities all over the world. If you have doubts about this therapy, going to an aromatherapy massage school will probably dispel them and open you up to its potential to help stressed and sick people.

How to Make Brochures for Massage Therapy


In the case of brochures for massage therapy, the goal is to make the therapist more popular in the targeted market and to maintain and develop a client base. They have to be effective in promoting the unique features and style of the therapist and focus on the health benefits of massage therapy.

Focus on Relevant Information

Brochures for massage therapy should include all the necessary information about the therapist, their experience in the field, the nature of the practice, its program, and a number of recommended sessions for certain health issues, costs and contact details. Moreover, in order to make the reader want to keep the brochures, you should also include health benefits, additional tips for a healthy lifestyle and similar. This will increase the effectiveness of the promotion campaign.

Remember that you are promoting the benefits of massage therapy and your goal is to increase the popularity of the therapist and attract new clients.

Vital Information

Brochures for massage therapy should include the following essential information in order for the promotion campaign to reach its purpose. You should include the name of the therapist, their training and experience, and all the necessary contact details including website address, email, phone number and physical address. If the therapist works in a number of different locations, you should add them with the address and schedule.

Include the therapist's credentials to establish his professional background. This increases his credibility and new clients will be able to trust in the effectiveness and professionalism of his services.

What to Consider in the Design Phase

The most important thing you should consider when you plan the design of the brochures for massage therapy is to reflect the nature of the service. If the therapist does sports massage therapy, the design should include photos of athletes, it should express high energy and physical exercises. You should use catchy and bold colors to make it stand out. However, if the therapist focuses on relaxation, the design should be softer, nature-oriented and it should inspire serenity and calmness.

Costs and Discount Deals

Everybody is focused on reducing the costs of their daily activities. This is why people usually want to know the costs and fees involved before they decide to benefit from additional healthy massages.

Brochures for massage therapy should contain all the range of services that the therapist provides to customers and the costs involved. Also include discount deals, special offers or a package of several services at lower costs. In order to attract more clients, you could also include a free discount for first-time clients. Moreover, such bonuses as free massage sessions if you bring one new client could also increase the popularity of the therapist.

If the relaxation room has gift certificates for sale, the brochures for massage therapy should also mention their availability to inspire people in making healthy gifts for their friends and family.

Why It's Important for Massage Therapists to Choose a Specialty


When massage therapists finish school and begin working, they might not immediately think of developing their skills for a niche market - after all, massage school is just the beginning, and you learn some of your most invaluable skills on the job! While most massage therapists focus on perfecting their Swedish and deep-tissue skills before moving on to advanced modalities, it is always a good idea to continue to think about how you want to develop your massage career. This way, you can take the classes and training necessary to develop your specialty early on.

Making the Most out of Continuing Education

Throughout the nation, massage therapists must abide by a professional licensing code that requires continuing education in areas such as communicable diseases, CPR training, ethics, and general education. While many massage therapists take the minimum number of courses, or pick available courses close to home that are convenient or inexpensive, it is important to take advantage of this educational opportunity, and pick classes ahead of time that align with your specific interests.

For example, students who have considered furthering their massage career within Reiki, neuromuscular massage therapy (NMT), or medical massage should consider that these modalities require several lengthy and in-depth courses, and can take several months, or years to fully complete. And while the process toward this type of certification is indeed more time consuming than, for example, a weekend class in hot stone technique, it is a step toward a worthwhile skill that not only boosts a resume, but also brings in new clients, helps massage therapists market themselves more effectively, and lays the groundwork for a lengthy and profitable massage career.

Start by browsing different continuing education options offered at schools in your immediate area, as well as regionally. Educate yourself about the time requirements, cost, and specific details about each modality, and truly consider what it takes to become a seasoned professional in that field. This way, you can maximize your time and money on required continuing education courses.

Sports Massage, Reiki, Pregnancy Massage, and More

When you envision yourself working as a massage therapist several years down the line - where do you see yourself working? In a chiropractor's office? For a ballet troupe, football team, or running club? Maybe in a holistic center, spa, or independent practice? Every massage therapist enters the profession for various reasons, and it is important to understand what excites and motivates you about a massage career. Some massage therapists are particularly athletic or interested in sports, and it is this type of therapist who is most often attracted to sports massage. Therapists who enter this practice often work with athletes before, during, and after sports events to prevent injuries, and to treat existing injuries.

Medical massage encompasses several techniques, and can include sports massage, craniosacral therapy, and NMT. Medical massage and its associated practices are often performed by therapists with an interest in injury treatment and prevention as a full time massage career. Other massage therapists gravitate toward energy healing, such as Reiki, which is purported to create a healing effect physically, mentally, and spiritually. Therapists who hold an interest in Reiki may also be interested in acupressure, or aromatherapy. Therapists who wish to expand their practice to accommodate pregnant clients may be interested in becoming certified in pregnancy massage, which enables massage therapists to understand and perform a medically appropriate massage for a mother-to-be.

Whatever your interest for a long-term massage career, there are continuing education training courses available to further your chosen specialty. Again, think about why you want to pursue a specific specialty, and what you think it will give back to you and your clients. Do you see yourself utilizing the specialty skills for years with your clients? If so, carefully consider with whom you will spend your time and money. Find the right program and begin another educational journey. You and your clients will benefit from your endeavors as you pursue your preferred niche in the vast world of advanced massage education.

Certification and Training

Finally, sometimes continuing education classes and experience aren't the only thing massage therapists need to practice a specialty in the field. Check with your state licensing board to ensure you have met the minimum credit hours for a special modality. To date, there is no licensing body for Reiki, but it is required to have achieved a "Level III" status in order to promote yourself as a Reiki master in your massage career.

Likewise, pregnancy massage is not governed by an accredited body, but most continuing education providers will not issue a certification until the student has completed a minimum number of credit hours, typically supported by graded exams, practical sessions, and homework. For certification in neuromuscular therapy massage as a career, massage therapists must take continuing education courses, schedule and sit for an exam, and receive a score evidencing competency in the field. The school or instructor of an advanced massage therapy specialty should be able to explain any applicable certification requirements.

Finding a specialty is an excellent step for massage therapists in their long term career, as it not only enables them to become well educated and better able to treat clients, but exposes the therapist to a whole new field of massage, and its benefits. So if you're considering developing a specialty, do your research, ask questions, and have fun learning about how you can further your massage career while helping your clients.

Sprint for a Sports Physical Therapy Career


Do you like sports? Are you into one? Are you a big fan? If YES then you might find Sports Physical Therapy as a hot choice for a career.

Sports Physical Therapy is among the fastest growing specialty areas in physical therapy. Widely know as Sports Medicine, sports physical therapy has been an age-long practicum for human athletes. Competitors' sports therapists ranging from football to gymnastics have utilized a variety of approaches to help maintain physical fitness and to assist in the recovery process of their athlete-patients when injury occurs to a joint, muscle, ligament, or tendon. But did you know that the earliest sports physical therapy practitioners are professional athletes themselves?

Being a great athlete requires knowing how to take care of your body. That's how sports med developed. Athletes attended to their physical health as well as to those of their team mates. Today, sports physical therapy has evolved into a distinctive specialty as it now focus on the effects of any form of exercise or physical activity aside from basic prevention or enhancement of physical performance to help injured athletes recover.

The field has grown expansively as more and more people in general, not just athletes, starts to become aware of their health as reflected in their fit bodies. The role of the sports therapists has become more and more important as they are called upon to help people achieve optimal health and peak physical performance by designing fitness activities, exercise programs for schools and health clubs, and special conditioning programs, while also teaching people in general some special knowledge and skills on injury prevention and strength, endurance, or agility training.

The Sports Medicine term for Sports Physical Therapy is in fact not secluded to the treatment of only athletes. Sports Physical Therapy is a treatment of anyone involved in physical exercise. Sports physical therapy is more accurately defined as healthcare for anyone who plays sports as well as those who perform exercise. This means that sports physical therapy, aside from its primary focus on acute/chronic injury prevention, also includes management of medical problems caused by exercise, treatment of chronic disease with exercise, and even specific exercise needs for children or women.

Aside from hospitals and clinics, sports physical therapists also work for community health centers, consulting groups, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, private sports medicine clinics, fitness centers, sports facilities, organizations for the handicapped, government health agencies, home health agencies, and schools, including high schools and colleges. Many sports physical therapy practitioners are also technically self-employed in a private practice even though they work in much the same way and setting. But forget that you can work privately for a 'Beckham' - you're making more people fit!

Thursday, July 25, 2013

10 Facts You Should Know About Esthetics Schools


Going to an esthetics school means that you are looking for a career in cosmetology or you want to put up your own skin care business. Whatever the case may be, if you want to become a good esthetician, you will need to first get the education required to become one. This means you will need to find the best esthetics school to enroll in and to get your diploma from. To help you determine whether or not the esthetics schools you are looking to get into are the best ones for you, here are some things you might want to know about these schools:

1. The best esthetics schools you can find will offer you both lectures and hands-on training to complete the course. This includes online schools that require you to attend hands-on lessons at institutions that they are affiliated with.

2. Esthetics schools basically teach you the specialized techniques and skills needed in the field of facial care. This includes deep pore cleansing, facial skin analysis, facial mask applications and even facial massage.

3. Depending on what esthetics school you choose, you can get an Associate's degree or a course certificate for your completed course. These courses often run for a minimum of 12 months to a maximum of 2 years for Associate's degrees.

4. Also included in the training modules of some of the best esthetics schools in the country are lessons on customer relations and communication skills, handling of different skin types and even business management for those who want to open their own skin care business in the future.

5. Esthetician training programs vary from one to the other with some having more course modules than others. Some of the lessons you may or may not get from these training courses include exfoliation techniques, chemical peels and techniques, makeup artistry, body wraps, use of facial equipment, waxing and hair removal and salon business management.

6. Depending on which school you choose to go to, you may be required to present a high school diploma before you are allowed to enroll.

7. Some esthetician schools require their students to practice not only their esthetician skills but also their communication skills since this is an important part of the job that the person will be getting into upon finishing the course.

8. You should be careful about online schools and check on their accreditation before you enroll. This is due to the fact that some cosmetology boards of certain states do not acknowledge the training a person gets from online institutions unless these are accredited by them beforehand.

9. If you are thinking of practicing your craft in a certain state, it would be best to get your lessons from a school found in that state. Each state has individual licensing practices in place therefore it would be best to get your education from a school that is found in the state you will be working in as an esthetician.

10. To help you see exactly what an esthetician school has to offer, do not simply rely on its website. Instead, pay the school a visit and see what facilities they have for their students and interact with some of the students there to get a feel of the school itself.

Common Types Of Physical Therapy


Accident do happen in the least way we expect it, and when it does, an individual may be injured and may need to undergo a surgery and physical care treatment afterwards. This is the most popular scenario where application of health care and rehabilitation may be required. Different types of physical therapy will be discussed as we go along with specifying each goal and purpose of health care and treatment for restoring movement and functionality.

An Orthopedic therapy is the most common method known to the society and often correlates with sports and car accident injuries. This kind of treatment specialized in healing muscular and skeletal systems disorder and injury. The therapist in this area focused on treating damages to the muscles, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments suffered from a fracture, arthritis, back and neck pain, sprain, strain, spinal condition and amputation.

Geriatric rehabilitation concentrates on helping elderly generation with the normal painful process of ageing. An individual growing older may develop certain disabilities through time in which the act of balancing and walking alone may be difficult. Older people who may have osteoporosis, arthritis, Alzheimers disease, stroke, and other specific condition may be improved in getting this kind of treatment. This type of therapy may be done through inpatient or outpatient settings.

Pediatric therapy specializes in assisting infants, young children and adolescents in battling illness caused by developmental delays, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and torticollis. Therapist in this field may need to be good in handling relationship with children to easily implement specific program designed to remedy their condition.

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation focuses on treating heart and lung ailments of an individual who have suffered from cardiac health problems, lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary surgery, and post coronary bypass surgery. The main goal of this treatment is to promote endurance, increase mobility and functional independence.

Neurological rehabilitation deals with the disease or disorder damaging and affecting the nervous system. Patients who are in pain relating to Parkinsons disease, cerebral palsy, brain injury, spinal cord injury and stroke may be required to see a therapist who specialized in this area. Therapist in this field may need to undergo a serious deal of training and should have high knowledge of neurological diseases. In most cases, neurological restoration may take longer because of individualized program designed to meet progressive recovery goals.

Integumentary rehabilitation concentrates on treating the condition of the largest system of a body widely known as skin and other related organs. Skin issue like wound which resulted from abrasion, puncture, incision, avulsion and amputation. Other skin problems arise from burns which referred as first, second, and third degree classified according to severity.

The vast types of physical therapy only emphasize that there are area of expertise that therapists has high knowledge of. It is best to think thoroughly on the kind of treatment that you may need and consider a therapist who is expert on their own field. Being able to identify the right therapist for you may greatly help on improving your condition and regaining strength to perform your day to day activities.

7 Secrets You Probably Don't Know About Occupational Therapy


Have you ever thought about being an occupational therapist? In such a position you get to help people who have either sustained injuries, been born with a disability, or are unable to function in everyday life. Occupational therapists help their patients develop or relearn basic skills. Social workers, physical and speech therapists, psychiatrists and other professionals work along with them to assist the patients.

For instance, an occupational therapist might help a stroke victim to learn how to write again, work on memory exercises, brush teeth or button a sweater. Such therapy begins while the person is still in the hospital and continues on for a couple weeks or months, depending on the person's needs.

Did You Know...

1. Robotics and other new technologies are making their way into the profession.
Engineers are working with them to create machines that can help stroke victims, those with multiple sclerosis and people with autism. These technologies are still new in the field.

2. Men are a minority in this field.
Men can be very useful in this type of work because men who are patients frequently prefer other men to help them in more personal tasks, such as bathroom tasks. Being a minority in the field, it is typically easier for men to get work as an occupational therapist than women. They also generally earn higher pay than women in these positions.

3. The need for occupational therapists is growing rapidly.
As the baby boomer generation gets older, more people will need help coping with disabilities and disease. Additionally, advances in science make it possible for people to live through more traumatic injuries and illnesses. They need help doing their daily activities.

4. Occupational therapists need a master's degree and a license to practice.
To stay licensed, they have to take continuing education courses. Employers want applicants who have graduated from accredited colleges and universities. Certification is optional but encouraged.

5. Occupational therapy ensures treatment for all.
Phillipe Pinel, a French philosopher, and William Tuke, an English Quaker, started calling attention to the need for humane treatment of the mentally ill in the late 1700s. They felt that people who were mentally ill were not a danger to society. Pinel and Tuke worked to help mentally ill patients to find emotional peace and encouraged those in mental institutions to take up positive activities to improve their quality of life. In time, going for walks, knitting and making toys were popular activities.

6. Occupational therapy was born during WWI.
Occupational Therapy was officially organized as a profession in 1917 to help returning World War I soldiers to work through emotional, mental and physical injuries. At that time, the practice became more scientific and the medical field recognized it as a medical profession.

7. Occupational therapy helps all kinds of people and problems
Occupational therapists help with those who have hearing loss, blindness, a loss of motor skills, trouble coping with stress, autism, stroke, heart attack, brain or spinal cord injuries, Alzheimer's disease, drug and alcohol abuse and other needs. The word "occupational" tends to make people think of helping people with their careers, but really their duties focus more on helping individuals learn, or relearn, skills that can help them be self sufficient.

The field of occupational therapy continues to change as new technologies and ways of thinking evolve. However, the need for occupational therapists will always be there. As these advances occur, patients will get more assistance with their needs and become more successful in coping with everyday events and in the recovery process.

Geriatric Massage Benefits and Precautions


Geriatric massage is an ideal form of massage therapy for the elderly. It uses various massage techniques done in gentle strokes on the different parts of the body. Most of the massage strokes used are conducted in a Swedish massage. Pressure applied during massage therapy is monitored and controlled to avoid injuries.

This type of therapy is similar to any common massage therapy as it mostly uses basic yet effective massage strokes. Most of the massage strokes used are gliding hand motions which use light pressure. The therapist's wise judgment on how many repetitions should be done plays an important role on the safety and effectiveness of the therapy. Some of the patients get exhausted much quicker than the other so there is no standard number of repetitions per massage technique.

The therapy however varies from patient to patient as it is adjusted depending on the needs and condition of the client. It is also strict in following the 30 minutes duration for a therapy as longer sessions can exhaust the elderly. Positions during the therapy are either side-lying or semi-reclined. The patient must be in his or her most comfortable position before the therapy begins.

Geriatric massage benefits are the removal of body pain due to the tightening of muscle tissues. Joints and limb flexibility can also be enjoyed after sessions of this therapy. Elderly massage therapy also helps in speeding up the healing process from injury or illness. It improves the deep breathing of the patient. Blood and oxygen circulation within the body is also improved with regular sessions of this therapy. Mental and physical relaxation is also achieved as the body enters a soothing experience with this relaxing treatment for seniors. Improvement of the lymphatic flow enhances the disposal of toxins and other wastes from within the body. Geriatric massage is also effective in treating emotional problems due to stress such as anxiety, loneliness, and depression. This technique also gives benefits to the body by healing muscle pain, headaches, and other types of body pain. Sleep is also improved when the elderly adds this therapy on his or her medical care. Although this therapy may seem to have many benefits up its sleeve, be on the lookout for its precautions in order to get only the best out of it.

Massage therapist who specializes in geriatric massage therapy are trained to spot conditions that are not allowed to be treated with this type of therapy. Here are some of the precautions on having an elderly massage therapy:

• Swollen or bruised areas of the body should never be massaged as it will only aggravate the condition. Instead, medicines or ice should be used to lessen the inflammation.

• Patients with fragile or damaged bones should stay away from this therapy as it will bring more harm than benefits. Certain kinds of cancers in elderly patients are also not allowed to be treated with geriatric massage.

Consulting or getting checked by your doctor should be the first step before opting on having an alternative medical care.

Become a Massage Therapist: What You Need to Know


Congratulations on deciding to learn how to become a massage therapist. A career in massage therapy can be very rewarding and lucrative. You will be working with clients providing a service that is very personal in nature. Continue reading to learn about what you can expect on your journey towards becoming a massage therapist.

Before you begin, let's first tackle the job description. It's a good idea to know exactly what makes someone a massage therapist. A massage therapist is a medical professional that treats clients by using touch. The therapy provided by these professionals helps to manipulate the soft-tissue muscles of the body. People come to seek out the services of massage therapists for a number of reasons. Some people are in need of help in healing from an injury. Other people simply need to get a massage to help relax and relieve stress. As a massage therapist, you will be responsible for communicating with your client. Providing guidance to your client on ways to improve posture and stretching will go a long way towards building a rapport. The better your reputation, the more clients you will have, which will eventually translate into more money earned.

Massage therapy is a career that is regulated by states in the US. In order to become a licensed massage therapist, you will need to check with your respective state for specific requirements. As a general rule of thumb, you will need to complete a postsecondary education program. To be eligible for the either the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage (NCETM) or the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCETMB) certifications, you will need to receive a minimum of 500 hours of instruction and graduate from a National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) school. The board also offers those persons who live in a state that uses the NCBTMB exams but do not require certification for licensure an option to take the same exams.

As a therapist, you can choose to specialize in various types of massage, called modalities. Some of the more commonly known types of massage are Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and reflexology massage. Each of these modalities requires specialized training. As a general rule of thumb, it is a good idea to specialize in more than one type of massage. Doing so will open up opportunities for you to practice and offer your services. By learning different types of massage, you can also learn what type you gravitate towards and get the most joy out of providing.

Once you become a masseuse, you will quickly discover that there are many places in which you can work. You can choose to work in a doctor's office, at a spa, on a cruise ship or, even for an athletic organization. Perhaps one of the greatest benefits is the option to open up your own practice and become self-employed. More than half of the massage therapists in the US were self-employed in 2010. Many therapists work part-time and by appointments. A result of working based on appointments is that your hours worked can vary somewhat. Because the job can be somewhat demanding on the body, it is important to schedule time to receive care and allow it to recover and heal.

In order to become a masseuse, you will need to consider a number of factors. You must first start with understanding what it is to become a massage therapist. Then, you need to decide where you would like to go to school to get your formal training, where you will need to receive at least 500 hours of instruction. Depending upon the requirements of your state, you may or may not require certification to be licensed. Should you need to obtain certification, you can visit the NCBTMB for additional information. During your training, you should try to specialize in more than one form of massage. The different types of massage are called modalities. When you are ready to look for employment, you will have many different environments in which to choose from, whether you choose to work for someone else, or go into business for yourself. Make sure you check out some of the other articles on this site, to learn more about how to become a massage therapist.

Frozen Shoulder Manipulation Or Physical Therapy - What's Best?


Of all the remedies and solutions available for treating adhesive capsulitis, the two treatments that receive the most attention are the frozen shoulder manipulation and physical therapy. A manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) conjures ideas of an instant cure while PT is viewed as the longer route to a normal functioning shoulder. In either case, therapy is still part of the treatment - or at least it better be. So the question often asked is that between the two procedures, "which is best?" The answer depends on an individual's circumstances and expectations.

A frozen shoulder manipulation is typically performed by an orthopedic physician. The patient is prepped and given a general anesthesia. The affected shoulder is then carried to its end point of motion followed by a quick thrust into a normal range. This is hopefully done in each plane of motion: Forward elevation, abduction (out to the side and overhead), external rotation (rotating the arm/shoulder towards the patient's back), internal rotation (rotating the shoulder towards the front of the body), and across the body. Extension is rarely performed as this motion is not usually deficient with this condition. What is important to achieve normal motion is to stabilize the scapulae (shoulder blade) during each of these thrusts. If not done in this manner, the shoulder may appear to be carried to full range of motion, but is actually not because the shoulder blade is simply going along for the ride. This can lead to a poor outcome with this treatment. With that said, a frozen shoulder manipulation should be performed by a competent clinician with experience in this procedure.

Physical therapy for a frozen shoulder is likewise best performed under the guidance of a therapist with experience in this area. Just because a therapist has a license doesn't mean they can provide the best treatment plan. One is best served to do a little investigation about a therapist's credentials and experience before blindly following his or her lead. This is why you can see so many forum or blog posts on the internet by unhappy patients who have tried therapy with minimal to no results. The clinical process is simple for a good outcome with physical therapy:  1) Pain/muscle spasm control, 2) Proper manual joint mobilization, 3) Home exercise prescription with correct frequency and intensity, 4) measures for gain, and 5) appropriate follow-up. If this process is followed by a clinician experienced in the treatment of adhesive capsulitis the outcome will be good and only conservative measures need to be used. With this I must confess that in my opinion therapy is the best solution overall. As i said before, in either case therapy will be needed as even in the case of an MUA the shoulder will quickly stiffen and scar tissue will form, potentially causing a greater dysfunction than before.

These days it is crucial that the patient take some of the responsibility for their care by doing their due diligence in regards to the treatments that are recommended to them. Even though a frozen shoulder manipulation seems to be the quicker cure, physical therapy in the long run can provide better and more lasting results if the patient chooses their therapist wisely.

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

The Benefits of Abdominal Massage Therapy


Abdominal massage is a therapy treatment that is still gaining interest and credibility. Even many massage therapists aren't in agreement with this type of therapy simply because the muscles are difficult to properly access and massage. There are a lot of benefits of massage, however, and therapy to this area can certainly provide you with a lot of different perks.

Not only will you find things like the usual muscle relaxation and increased circulation, but there may be other things that you can enjoy from this type of massage. Stomach massage does a lot, but you also have to learn what it doesn't offer so that you know what you're getting into.

Some of the Benefits of Abdominal Massage Include:

-Constipation relief. Stomach massages combined with increased fluid and fiber intake can help you avoid taking OTC or prescription laxatives and other drugs to get the relief that you deserve.

If you are struggling to have bowel movements, you don't have to suffer. You should see a doctor if it becomes a serious issue, but massage is also an option if things haven't gotten too bad.

-IBS relief and support. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a condition that includes spasms of your intestines. This can lead to near-constant diarrhea and other stomach upset issues.

The gentle nature of abdominal massage can actually help relax the body, the stomach and colon, and stimulate the body's nerves so that you can decrease spasms and find relief from this issue.

-Peristalsis support. Through stomach massage, your body can enjoy a better digestive process. Not only will this massage relax the muscles and help get things moving in the right direction, but it can stimulate circulation and nerves, giving your intestines the support that they need to push things through properly.

-Stomach pain relief. Even if you don't have a stomach issue that is caused by your digestive tract, you can still have pain conditions in the abdomen. Sharp pain can be a sign of serious issues and you should get medical help.

However, dull or intermittent pain might be relieved by a stomach massage that can help reduce the pain and increase blood flow, no matter what the issue might be.

-Pulled muscles. Believe it or not, it's really common for people to pull or strain muscles in their stomach area. With this type of massage, the muscles can be relaxed and tension can be relieved so that healing can begin.

You can increase the circulation to the area and promote relaxation, which will both lead to healthier muscles and fewer issues in the future.

Pregnancy massage is a lot more popular than people realize. A gentle stomach massage can actually help with things like relaxation, bloating, calming the fetus/baby, and other areas of concern when you are pregnant.

This process needs to be done by someone who is properly trained, of course, but it is a benefit that you can find when you consider this type of massage.

Abdominal Massage Facts and Tips

The most important thing to remember is that this therapy should always be performed by a licensed, trained professional. Massage therapists know what they are doing and how to help you get the relief that you need. Rely on them for everything that you want from your massage treatment, no matter what you have in mind.

Trying to do this alone or working with someone who isn't trained or properly certified could be dangerous. Make sure that you always turn to a professional massage therapist for abdominal and other massage procedures.

Something that is important to note is that massage therapy does NOT replace medical treatment for issues that require a doctor or medical procedure. If you have small issues with discomfort or the types of health issues listed above, a stomach massage might be an effective solution.

If you need medical attention, however, you should always turn to your doctor so that you can get the relief that you deserve. Massage therapy is great when it can help with small issues to promote better health, circulation, and relaxation, but it does not replace medical care for serious health issues, and any professional masseuse will tell you that.

Another controversy over stomach massage is weight loss. Some people will try to argue that this massage treatment will help promote weight loss or actually cause you to lose weight. This is NOT the case, at all.

Abdominal massage isn't going to do anything for the fat in your stomach or the way that you eat or gain weight. It will help improve circulation, digestion, muscle relaxation, and other issues.

It isn't going to make you instantly skinny or help you lose weight simply by getting a massage. There are plenty of healthy, simple, and effective ways to lose weight but this isn't one of them.

It's All About Perks

The bottom line is that abdominal massage can provide you with a lot of health benefits and physical support. It will offer relaxation, improved circulation, and support for many common digestive issues. Although many professionals still argue about the validity of this type of massage therapy, it is effective when used appropriately.

You should learn more about this procedure, talk to licensed massage therapists, and figure out whether it is right for your needs. There aren't really any risks here as long as you're seeing a licensed, trained professional and there is something for just about everyone to gain.

Stomach massage can be done as a part of a full-body massage or on its own. Gas and bloating, stomach aches and pains, and 'knots' in the abdominal region are usually related to pressure, stress, and other similar issues. This particular massage might help alleviate issues, reduce stress, and give you more support for a healthy abdomen than you might find elsewhere.

Just remember to work with a trained massage therapist so that the procedure is done right and you get the best chances at relief from whatever is ailing you. This treatment is helpful to adults and children alike, and offers plenty of support for stress relief and relaxation.

How To Become A Neurological Physical Therapist


Perhaps becoming a Neurological Physical Therapist is one of the wisest decisions you will ever make in your entire lifetime. It is one of the jobs that do not only provide you the opportunity to work with different people but it is also a great way to help other people whom you probably do not personally know. A lot of individuals enter into this kind of work not only to earn more money but also to help other people. But, on the other hand, becoming a Neurological Physical Therapist is not an easy task. In fact, you have to be disciplined and be responsible enough to know your priorities if you want to succeed in this field. Keep in mind that this type of course is a challenging one. There will be a number of science subjects that you need to tackle. And if you are the kind of person who likes to party all night and shop all day long then you probably have to think twice and set your priorities straight because if you continue wasting your time in bars, clubs and malls then you will never have enough time and energy to focus on your studies.

It's not only mental capacity that is required of in this subject but you also have to be interested in taking care of other people. This job entails the responsibility of taking care of people whom you do not even know.

To help you better understand the concept behind the responsibilities of this job, imagine taking care of a patient suffering from neurological damage and in need of a professional help. It is the Neurological Physical Therapist's job to ensure that the patient will recover from his ailment.

Now, that you know the heavy responsibility of this career it is your decision whether or not to proceed with this field. If you are still interested to become a Neurological Physical Therapy Practitioner, read the information below to gain knowledge on how to become one.

First, after you graduate from a four year course with a heavy background in science you must find schools that welcome residencies. This is very important since not all schools allow or offer residencies. If there are no local schools within your community, you can check out schools in your neighboring town with the use of the internet.

Second, you need to do a review and be ready for the licensing exam in order to obtain your license.

Description of a Physical Therapist's Job


According to the US Department of Labor, physical therapist positions are expected to increase by 27% between 2006 and 2016. As there is already a high demand for physical therapists and almost no unemployment in this field, this looks like a very promising field to enter into.

The most important part of any description of a physical therapist's job involves the nature of the work a physical therapist performs. This includes diagnosing a patient's problem, testing to see the extent of the problem, designing a treatment plan, executing the treatment plan, teaching patients exercises that are a part of the treatment plan, teaching patients how to use any assistive devices they may need, evaluating a patient's progress, referring patients to other professionals when the scope of the illness is outside of their experience and training, and concluding treatment when the patient no longer needs it.

What are some general job activities that physical therapists perform? These include assisting and caring for others, getting information, establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships, making decisions and solving problems, performing general physical activities, analyzing data, communicating, and organizing, planning and prioritizing work.

Becoming a physical therapist requires specialized education and knowledge. This includes a masters or doctorate in physical therapy, which usually includes training to give the student knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy, kinesiology, neuroscience, pathology, orthopedics, radiology, pharmacology, and therapeutic exercise. Physical therapy degrees also include some supervised clinical experience.

A description of a physical therapist's job should also include information on the various locations where a physical therapist might work. These include hospitals, clinics, private homes, schools, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and private offices. Some physical therapists also teach at universities.

Another thing most people would look for is the information on what physical therapists can expect to earn. According to the US Department of Labor, the median annual earnings for physical therapists was $66,200 in May 2006. Obviously this varies by experience, location, type of position, specializations, and the type of facility a physical therapist works for.

Another point of interest would be the physical therapist's job outlook. According to the US Department of Labor, the job outlook is good, with physical therapy jobs growing much faster than the average. People are living longer and surviving more serious illnesses, and this increases the demand for physical therapists.

Physical Therapy Assistant Schools Online


Now you can study towards becoming a physical therapy assistant from the comfort of your own home. Currently, there are a number of assistant schools online that offer distance learning program. You should definitely find out more about this option for getting the training you need.

What do physical therapy assistant schools online offer? They offer associate's degree programs in physical therapy assisting. Still, some programs will require you to complete general education courses before enrolling, so that you can study only the medial academic subjects online. That is why you have to check each program individually. It is essential for you to find out whether a program is accredited by the Physical Therapy Association's Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education before you enroll in it.

A standard program is divided into two modules. The first module consists of academic coursework. You will study a number of subjects, including anatomy, physiology, introduction to physical therapy, disabilities and therapeutic exercise, medical terminology and ethics and psychology. You will use a variety of computer-based methods for learning.

You will get to use video lectures and used computer-based reading materials. You will submit assignments via email. You will attend online classes. In this way, you will be able to get direct instructions and help from your instructors. You will be able to participate in discussions with your fellow students as well.

All accredited physical therapy assistant schools online provide clinical practice as part of their programs. You will be required to attend laboratory work practice and clinical practice in a health care setting in person. This means that even if you choose distance learning, you will have to arrange transportation and/or accommodation in order to attend your clinical practice.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of studying online? The main benefit of distance learning is that you get to study in your own time in the comfort of your own home. No other form of training can give you this kind of flexibility. That is why distance online learning is perhaps the best option for people who work overtime or have to take care of their young children.

Studying online is cost-effective as well. Usually, the fees of online schools are lower compared to the tuition fees charged by traditional colleges. Additionally, you save on transportation costs and even on accommodation costs. These are considerable benefits for those who have insufficient income for obtaining higher education.

The main drawback of physical therapy assistant schools online is that students do not get the same kind of accessibility to individual support and learning resources. Still, most good programs manage to provide a lot of support and aid to their students. It may even exceed the support and aid you will get while studying at a traditional college. Having to attend clinical practice in a set place may be a drawback for some people, but it may be possible to arrange clinical practice in a health care facility near your home.

Now you know all about physical therapy assistant schools online and distance learning. Use this information to decide on this option.

Alternatives For Physical Therapy Continuing Education


Physical therapy continuing education is distinctive from state to state, based on their requirements and conditions imposed to physical therapists and assistants. Should you be prepared to begin a career in this domain, this provides major chances, starting with public and private colleges and universities offering health courses. They give a range of opportunities for the physical therapy continuing education idea through their applications, offering both traditional classroom and distance learning settings. These types of continuing education degrees can be obtained through four primary programs:

- if you have obtained a bachelor' s degree in other domain and you are motivated to become a physical therapist, you can apply for a two years Direct Entry Master' s degree. Physical therapy concepts classic learning is the objective of the first year of this course, and the second year focuses on internship clinical experiencing settings.

- the Transitional Master' s degree targets those who previously obtained a bachelor' s degree in physical therapy preceding the modifications in continuing education requirements, permitting bachelor degree holders to go on with their education experience in an effort to meet the current conditions.

- a Direct Entry Doctorate degree is one year longer than the direct master' s, but by getting this degree you can earn a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. It will earn you a better revenue and the entitlement of doctor.

- if you have a bachelor' s or a master' s degree in physical therapy, you are accepted to attend a doctorate program - the Transitional Doctorate degree

The five most popular specialty segments in physical therapy continuing education are:

- Orthopedic, in which physical therapists have to diagnose, manage and treat patients with musculature injuries and offer remedy assistance for patients who have suffered orthopedic surgical procedure. Some of the few areas physical therapist specialize in are configured by amputations, arthritis, joint, acute sport injuries.

- Geriatric is the field that typically aims the elders and if you decide on geriatric physical therapy continuing education, you can choose between various areas such as hip and joint replacement, arthritis, osteoporosis, cancer pulmonary fibrosis, Alzheimer' s disease.

- the Neurological field gets physical therapists specialized in dealing with Alzheimer' s disease, brain injuries, multiple sclerosis, stroke, cerebral palsy and many other.

- Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation addresses those showing their interest in focusing on patients with heart diseases, coronary bypass surgery, pulmonary diseases, pulmonary fibrosis and other.

Pediatric is the area that specializes in treating children, adolescents and infants being exposed to congenital, muscular, skeletal, developmental problems and also treating children with cerebral palsy, spinal and other.

A physical therapy continuing education can be attained by completing the programs either traditionally, on campus, or via Internet, through online programs. Internet programs grant continuing education for physical therapists, occupational therapists and physical occupational therapy assistants. This way, they assure the quality of the physical continuing therapy education and the means to assist students encounter their professional targets. If you are overly busy for traditional education, the virtual implementation for physical therapy continuing education is much easier and convenient. They can be finalized in your own time, at whatever time it is most suitable to you, and are done so far by rehabilitation professionals for rehabilitation professionals.

Boot Camp For Children - The Perfect Therapy For Children With Misbehavior


Handling misbehavior in children is something very challenging for young parents. Seriously speaking, children's behavior is sometimes a mystery. Sometimes, we do not know what the young kids are thinking. We love our children very much and we are extremely upset and depressed when they misbehave. However, we can't use harsh way to punish them because it will make the situation worse. In order to make things change, we need to think positively. We need to find ways to overcome the "problem." One of the most effective ways I would like to suggest here is getting your beloved kids to participate in boot camp.

What is boot camp about?

In common, boot camps are intensive short-term programs for misbehaved children. These camps can be as short as a couple of weeks or as long as 3 months. Different camps are catered for different purposes. Some are meant for helping those at risk of social disorders. Some are meant for developing confidence and increasing self-esteem through extreme physical activities. Since there are so many types of camps available in the market, if you intend to send your children to attend one, you are reminded to obtain detailed information from the camp providers before you make your selection. For parents who are not sure which program works best for their children, they can talk to the counselor for professional advice.

These camps are helpful for parents because they help to control the children's impulsive behavior through a structured reward-punishment system. There is a wide variety of outdoor physical exercises used to facilitate the young kids. The main objective of this type of camp is to instill respect, responsibility and discipline among young kids. It helps to encourage movement, release energy, reduce stress and form healthy habits for a lifetime. For parents who are facing challenges with their misbehaved kids, they are highly recommended to get their children involved in the boot camps. The children who have gone through the exercises will be able to deal with frustration positively and they can also minimize their selfishness.

In some people's point of view, boot camps are full with fun and excitement. In fact, if you look from another angle, they are actually serious programs for kids and teens with "difficult" behaviors. The programs are well-designed to help the parents to take care of their children who are absolutely out of control. Researchers have found out that more than 75% of the participants of boot camps completed the programs successfully and they have shown great improvements on how they behave. In other words, the camps help to produce attitudinal changes in young children.

Dear parents, sometimes our life is full with stress. But we should not take children's misbehavior personally. Lying, hitting, stealing and other misbehaviors are regular parts of the maturation process for most children. Our beloved children need special attention. Especially for young kids, their ability to express themselves verbally may be limited. They may find it hard to communicate with adults when they are dissatisfied. We should handle all the situations with positive attitude. Do not blame yourself or your children for creating the problems. Be patient and observe the situations carefully. Make good use of the boot camps to assist you to overcome the issues.

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

The Fundamentals of Massage As Therapy


When we talk about the therapeutic benefits of massage, you often hear about different massage styles and techniques. Deep Tissue, Thai, and Sports are some examples.

However, massage is therapeutic on a more basic level. This is often overlooked.

The perfect massage for your ails.
As a therapist, I am always trying to match the right technique with each client's needs. I have advanced certifications in several different styles, so I easily pick and choose what the client's body cues me to do.

However, sessions didn't always follow this pattern of technique-matching. When I first began practicing massage therapy, I was keener to the deeply therapeutic effects of basic human touch. I saw this basic need and its healing effects. I practiced it, first and foremost.

As I become increasingly skilled, it requires more effort to continually go back to the fundamentals. Probably the most therapeutic feature of a good massage is the touch itself. A caring, conscientious touch from a therapist is more important than any skill they have learned from any instructor.

Back to basics.
Some clients avoid telling therapists that they want a Swedish massage. They don't understand that Swedish strokes are the foundation of most other massage, and that Swedish can be performed lightly or firmly. You can barely leave Swedish effleurage or petrissage out of any massage session, and the pressure is not the same as the technique.

When humans practice very basic, instinctive, types of human touch, it often resembles Swedish-style effleurage.

A fundamental massage, consisting of basic strokes, is common in massage research. Health practitioners know the links between child development and touch. They have also revealed how stress relief prevents disease, and how massage can contribute to health improvements.

In conclusion, it is tempting (as a client or therapist) to figure out which type of massage you want. But don't forget to include a good ole-fashioned basic massage in your health practices.

Massage Therapist Vs Masseuse-Masseur - What Title Do Licensed Professional Body Workers Prefer?


I had a celebrity client in my private practice a couple months ago and when his session was up he sat up on the massage table and said quite politely, "can we have sex now, please." I was taken aback by the request and wasn't sure I heard correctly, so I said, huh? He repeated his request and I jokingly responded "not today, maybe next time" with a nervous giggle and kept on giving my follow-up care suggestions. Well, he was friendly, very open to the energy and therapy I delivered and let's face it, most people will be in a "very loving head space" at the end of a really good massage. I didn't want to abruptly change that. He returned for one more session, but I am now wondering whether he did so because I said "maybe next time" rather than respond that sex was not on my menu of services. Since I was a little surprised by his request, joke or no joke, I decided that I would always refer clients to my Menu of Services, and remind them that I am not licensed to practice anything else, especially that which is illegal.

Earlier this week, I put the word out on my fan page that I was in the hunt for a new place to reopen for business. I would be open to suggestions that afforded foot traffic, signage and which was low-budget and unencumbered by anything porn related. A male colleague sent me an email, reiterating his earlier advice that I get out of any business connected to the porn industry since landlords are less willing to rent space to these businesses. This, although my colleague knows I am not doing pornographic massage, and that there are legal and reputable places here for legitimate bodywork. He has not been to my practice, because he prefers to have a happy ending after his massage and so he goes to these other places that offer that. Not really "my loss"....

At a stage in my career/business where I, as a single woman with no support from anyone, am struggling to survive along with everyone else who don't want to "cross over," these suggestions sort of well...break my heart. It isn't enough to be concerned that some psychopath or pervert is going to request a massage that I get chosen to go out and do; or worst, maybe he comes to my home for the massage and does something to ruin my sacred space. I am not better than doing pornographic massage and actually I would make better money and live better if I were to cross over. This I have been told by many of the male colleagues in this area. Some people I played poker with were very frank with me and indicated that if I offered happy endings, they'd be there three times per week. I am a good-looking woman and I can't change that this is how men think and it is mostly who request massages. How disheartening for those who want their chosen field of work to be anything but salacious, lecherous, and pornographic. All I want to give is clean, healthy, therapeutic healing and rejuvenation delivered by a healthy, clean conduit with amazing, loving hands and heart. These scenarios are the reasons I despise the words masseuse and masseur. They imply erotic touch, something immoral and, well,...shameful...unless you are a "person of the night," an escort, a prostitute who is proud and happy about being that. I AM A MASSAGE THERAPIST, OFFERING MASSAGE THERAPY; NOT THE SAME THING AS THESE PROUD PROSTITUTES.

Understandably, the Wikipedia says: "Those who practice massage as a career are referred to as masseurs, masseuses, or, if certified, as massage therapists." The words masseuse and masseur are from a French word, Masser, which means "to massage," "to knead" (as in bread), "to rub down," "to mass or to throng together." Hence the masseuse (female) and the masseur (male) does the "rubbing down" or [therapeutically] "mass or throng together" your broken spirits, bodies, energies, so that you heal, become whole again to go back out and face your challenges. These are the sentiments behind my massage practice. I desire to help people become whole again, if even for a moment, so that they can heal little by little and face their challenges with a loving feeling and maybe loving thoughts in their hearts. This was the original import of those words, although somewhere along the way they became popular in the whore houses of Europe, Asia and the Americas.

I belong to a religion in which modesty is a big deal. I have told many therein that I am a massage therapist and I watch for the look on their faces. Some have taken my card/number, possibly to "investigate" while others take it but will never call. Others have chosen not to associate with me because well, (1) I wear dreadlocks, which is to some an immodest, rebellious hairstyle among other things; and (2) they imagine that I am doing something "unholy" in my massage business and God knows where else I am unholy in my path and hence I must be ruled a bad associate. If I say I am a therapist, they instantly assume "physical therapist"...and that's o.k..., but not massage therapist...they don't know about that....

I have wondered what they would do if I said I was a gynecologist or urologist. Hmm...I wonder whether they would have a similar reaction. After all, these professionals look at vaginas and penises, etc. all day! These are the same people who go to the doctor and strip down for examinations and have no idea whether the doctor is a pervert, child molester, rapist, or whatever or care whether he or she shares their beliefs. They simply trust that he or she is a "doctor", hence it's fine and they assume no sexual connotation to this job title. Yet, our society has become so debased that people believe that sex and sexuality must be attached to every loving feeling or touch outside of that. It is "normal" to believe that one cannot touch another in a massage setting with only "therapeutic, non-sexual intentions." One client told me I was being "absurd" and "unbelievable", when I responded that I wasn't thinking about any such thing when I massaged him or any other client. He couldn't believe that I could have no sexual reaction to him or any other sexy men or women for whom I provided therapy. How unfortunate....

Recently, I renewed my certification with the California Massage Therapy Council. The recertification questionnaire asked the following questions (among others), the answers to which would determine my, and any "legitimate therapist's", legal qualification:

"Step 2-Professional Status Questions: A "Yes" answer to any of the following questions requires a separate statement explaining in your own words the complete details regarding the incident or event. All supporting documentation must be attached to your recertification application at the time it is filed with the California Massage Therapy council ("CAMTC"). CAMTC reserves the right to request additional documentation as needed. Failure to disclose information is considered an attempt to procure a certificate by fraud, misrepresentation, or mistake and is grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation of a CAMTC Certificate. All questions are required to be answered before being allowed to continue.

1. Since the date you signed and dated your initial application for certification to CAMTC, have you received an administrative citation related to, or been refused a license, or license-renewal to practice massage therapy or any other profession in any city, county, state, country, or jurisdiction?

2. Since the date you signed and dated your initial application for certification to CAMTC, have you had a license, certificate, or permit to practice massage therapy, operate a massage establishment, or had any other license, permit, or certificate to practice any other profession revoked, suspended, or otherwise acted against (including administrative citation, probation, fine, reprimand, or surrender of license, permit, or certificate)?

3. Since the date you signed and dated your initial application for certification to CAMTC, have you had, or is there currently pending against you in any city, county, state, country, or jurisdiction, a complaint against your professional conduct (sexual misconduct or otherwise) or professional competence?

4. Since the date you signed and dated your initial application for certification to CAMTC, have you been arrested and had criminal charges filed against you for penal code section 647(b) or any other act punishable as a sexually related crime?

5. Since the date you signed and dated your initial application for certification to CAMTC, have you been convicted of any offense other than a minor traffic violation? Convictions MUST be reported even if they have been adjudicated, dismissed, expunged, or if a diversion program has been completed. The definition of "conviction" includes a plea of nolo contendere (no contest), as well as pleas or verdicts of guilty. You MUST include misdemeanor as well as felony convictions.

If you have answered yes to any of the above questions, please give us your written statement describing the complete details regarding the incident or event."

This one was exceptionally notable: "I understand and agree that renewal of my CAMTC certificate may be denied based on unprofessional conduct if I practice massage at a massage establishment, or own a massage establishment, that advertises in any adult and/or sexually oriented section of any form of media, whether print or digital."

Yes, some people will lie in response to these questions, but for how long, since it is the D.O.J. and F.B.I. that are behind the CAMTC and our documents are scanned. It is then, very clear to me that there is a mass movement to garner a greater respect for the craft of massage therapy and for legitimate therapists to stand united, separate from the "rub 'n tug" houses with their masseuses and masseurs. If you are not French, then don't use "masseuse or masseur" to describe your therapist unless they perform erotic massage. Heck, even if you are French and you know these words have a negative connotation in the field of bodywork, don't use them to describe this legitimate craft. Follow the lead of the CAMTC and set the bar for your practice and for what you, as a consumer, expect of your massage establishments.

Therapists must consider whether they are providing a service they can be proud of in any discussion? Are you a very happy and willing rub 'n tug masseuse/masseur? Set the bar and draw the line. Do you want patrons to respect you and your skill set. People say who they are in the same breath as saying what they do. I'm Dr. So and So; I'm Professor so and so; I'm Detective Jones. Never once have I inquired what someone did for work and the response was that they were an escort, erotic masseuse, etc. I proudly declare I am a legal and certified massage therapist. I have no desire to do anything shameful in this business. I seek to nurture and build a clientele that appreciates what I do for them, their health and who is generous in spirit to keep the circle of love going. I seek clients who have not sold into the idea that loving touch must be sexual. Together, maybe, we can contribute to healing the world, one body at a time and make it so that love, loving, healing touch becomes such a positive and popular thing that one doesn't need to associate it with sex regardless of the parasympathetic responses to this well-needed therapy.

I gave my card to someone I met just days after writing this post and he called to find out "how long have I been a masseuse." When I said I wasn't a "masseuse", he corrected himself and asked what's the difference.... Hopefully, this discussion helps to clear up many things for the other inquiring minds and help to dignify those that are real and legal.