Massage Therapy Soothes PMT and Menstruation Symptoms

Premenstrual tension and period pains are not ailments that can be cured, but together with other lifestyle changes, massage therapy can help reduce the discomfort you feel and improve your mindset.

Unfortunately both these conditions women have to live with for a considerable part of their adult life on a regular basis, but if you follow a few simple guidelines you will be able to cope and possibly alleviate them.

Symptoms of PMT and Period Pain

1. Anxiety and mood swings
2. Irrational, irritable and depressed
3. Lethargic and crave sweet foods
4. Abdomen feels bloated and you have fluid retention
5. Skin may become spotty
6. Stomach cramps and backache

Massage will not cure PMT and period pain but will help treat both the physical and mental symptoms of them.

It is a good idea to have a full body massage a couple of days before the symptoms appear, as it will help relax you and balance out your emotions. It is important to soothe both the mind and physical body, as built up tension adds to the muscle spasms and cramping pains felt at this time of the month.

Set a relaxed scene and using plenty of oil, slowly and firmly massage your abdomen with your hands. Using gentle, stroking movements rotate them in a clockwise direction, trying to remain relaxed at all times. Pulling up the side of the abdomen towards the bladder may also help.

Do not massage too deep as firm light strokes are far more soothing. Repeat as many times as you wish. This will reduce the bloated feeling in your swollen abdomen and soothe the nagging cramps felt in your lower back.

The best essential oils to add to the carrier oil before a massage are:

1. Chamomile
2. Lavender
3. Mandarin
4. Geranium

These will help balance out your hormones and minimise excessive fluid. Also for optimum benefit also add these oils to your daily bath.

Other suggestions to alleviate these symptoms are:

1. Have ample fibre in your diet
2. Reduce your salt, sugar, caffeine and alcohol intake
3. Take supplements of B complex and evening primrose oil

Taking all this advice, and having a regular therapeutic massage regularly, will help reduce the symptoms of postmenstrual and menstruation, and allow you to lead a more normal life during these trying times women have to live with.

Hilot - Effective Filipino Massage Therapy

Hilot is a popular massage method that originated in the Philippines which is commonly used in its provinces. It uses traditional Filipino herbal medicines and ointments as a part of the healing practice.

This type of massage therapy was the only source of medical care for the Filipinos many centuries ago. Even today, in the rural areas of the Philippines, hilot is still used by many people especially the poor people who have no money in getting their sick loved ones to the hospital for treatment.

Hilot is a combination of many types of medical care from healing, setting the bones in place, and delivering babies from pregnant women on rural areas. Most massage therapists are known as "manghihilot" which almost all of them are fond of using herbs and ointments during the massage therapy.

Like most Asian style of massage therapy, Hilot focuses its healing ability by clearing the energy pathways all over the patient's body which is believed to be responsible in providing a healthy condition to the human body. Most of the massage therapists that are good in this method can sense what is wrong with the patient's body by looking at him or her. Hilot, unlike most massage therapy needs communication from both parties as the massage therapist works on the patient's body. This type of massage therapy is a light therapeutic massage that can relax and comfort the patient's body.

During a massage therapy session, the massage therapist asks the patient to lie down on a massage table or bed and remove the upper clothing as he or she starts working at the back part of the patient. Heated banana leaves and other herbal leaves are used and placed on the different areas of the patient's body to help him relax which is similar to the use of hot stones. Herbal ointments are then applied on the back part of the body as a lubricant for better maneuvering of the hands for the different massage strokes. Pressure then is applied as the massage therapist works in relieving back pain and removing stress out of the patient's body. In case the patient experiences painful strokes or too much pressure applied by the massage therapist, he or she should let the massage therapist know how he or she is feeling so that the therapist can adjust and reduce the pressure and effort being used on the patient.

Hilot is a deep tissue massage which is a type of massage commonly used by athletes or individuals that works hard or has stressful jobs. This type of massage therapy relaxes and energizes the body in order to work properly and at its best. The deep tissue massage releases tension on the muscle which calms it and prevents body stiffening that often results as stress on the patient's physical condition. Unlike most massage therapy though, hilot doesn't follow a pattern during a massage therapy session, instead the massage therapist bases his or her work on the treatment needs of the patient. Hilot is an effective method of relieving body pain and other types of sickness.

Three Features Your Physical Therapy Software Needs To Effectively Support Your Mid-Sized Practice

If you're currently running a mid-sized physical therapy practice, you already fully understand that the facility does not run itself. Rather, each and every day brings with it an extensive assortment of specific operational requirements that helps to ensure overall success. From effectively managing patient care needs to consistently confirming that all operational procedures run smoothly, there are many critical factors that demand careful consideration to warrant optimal return on investment. What's one of the best ways to most efficiently manage the many daily functions required to keep your mid-sized practice running smoothly? Implementing an innovative physical therapy practice management software solution.

Selecting A Physical Therapy Software Solution Requires Research And Vendor Screening

It goes without saying that choosing a Physical Therapy software program at random for your firm will probably not produce the desired results. The only way to guarantee a maximum return on investment requires extensive research and vendor screening. While selecting an appropriately configured solution will require some initial legwork, the process doesn't have to prove overwhelming or too time consuming. Knowing what to look for as you begin to source a suitable software product can save time, internal resources and help guarantee that you procure the best technology fit possible for your firm.

Key Components To Look For With Your Physical Therapy Software Product

When pairing down the list of potential physical therapy practice management software solutions for your facility, always look for the following three critical components to ensure a comprehensive strategy.

Documentation: A reputable physical therapy practice management software product should always include a comprehensive documentation application. Users should be able to enter as much data as needed, yet the user interface should always prove ultra-intuitive. Most importantly, the documentation feature should carry over pertinent information from old entries and form the foundation for easy-to-run system reports.

Scheduling: Your mid-sized firm needs a functional scheduling component to keep the day running seamlessly. Always look for a product that offers optimized scheduling to help your front office coordinate appointments and manage cancellations. Ideally, the scheduling application should also include co-payment functionality as well as routine reminders about missed appointments to help best service patients in your care.

Billing: It's no secret that the back office often is the proverbial business backbone in any organization. Without a secure and systematic way to process invoices and request payments, your mid-size practice would soon be defunct. Your chosen software package should always include an extensive application for AP/AR functionality that can seamlessly take documentation notes to process insurance claims as well as generate any necessary accounting forms.

It's important to note that beyond the product features, there are also other critical components to seek in your selected partner. Remember, running any type of organization in the healthcare vertical stipulates compliance with various HIPPA requirements. Not only should you always opt for a vendor that knows the specific nuances of your industry, they should also offer additional resources and affiliations that can help your team guarantee they adhere to HIPPA regulations at all times. Periphery partnerships with your chosen vendor can prove a true differentiator as you move forward with your final decision on a product.

Massage Therapy Training Possibilities

Massage therapy is commonly used for its medical advantages and relaxation functions. Students that have an educational background can work with a variety of clients. Numerous holistic healing schools offer students training opportunities in massage therapy.

The training requirements are different than most majors because educational standards change from state to state. The overall requirements for a massage therapist is to have completed at least 500 hours of schooling and obtained a license to practice. Most states utilize one of the two national exams, which include the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination. Students have many training options to choose from when it comes to earning their 500 hours of completion. Most colleges offer students the chance to complete a certificate or associate's degree program.

Programs at both educational levels typically teach an overview of the field. Students interested in a specific technique can find some programs that concentrate on one area specifically. There are over eighty different techniques that are commonly referred to as modalities. Aromatherapy, shiatsu, relaxation, and deep tissue are some popular massage therapy styles. Educational training covers multiple areas because massage therapists usually provide several modalities at their place of work. Each technique is covered inside a training program. Students learn how to use long strokes and short percussion-like strokes on clients. Students will also learn certain massage therapy types that are only used on specific clients. For example, pregnant women often receive prenatal massage therapy to help them relax and relieve strain on muscles.

Students will learn about these techniques inside both available training programs. Certificate programs allow students to step into a career within six months to a year. Education focuses on different pressure points, massage styles, and business practices. The Eastern and Western forms of massage therapy are covered to give students a well-rounded education. Courses may include:

• Anatomy


• Physiology


• Sports Massage

Education prepares students for entry-level careers working for spas, chiropractic offices, and more. Courses prepare students to work with clients before, during, and after a session. Before a massage therapy session an interview is conducted to gain the individuals medical history. This knowledge helps the therapist know which techniques would be best for a particular client. During a session professionals adjust their approach to help specific areas that need to be addressed. After a session professionals often talk with clients to know what works best for future visits.

Education at the associate's degree level allows students to step into a wide range of careers because more training is earned. A broader knowledge base is gained as students work through courses that may include:

• Medical Terminology


• Pathology of Disease


• Swedish Massage


• Business Management

Within the two years of natural healing study students learn how to work inside hospitals, clinics, or their own businesses.

Both educational opportunities train students to obtain licensure and become working professionals. Enter an accredited massage therapy training program and start the process of entering a popular career field. Agencies like the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation ( http://www.comta.org/ ) accredited the best quality training programs.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERIC OUTLINE and may or may not depict precise methods, courses and/or focuses related to ANY ONE specific school(s) that may or may not be advertised on HolisticJunction.com.
Copyright 2010 - All rights reserved by HolisticJunction.com.

Communication in Massage

Communicating with clients and understanding Variables.

Three special needs clients are:

- Mental Illness - Clinical Depression, BiPolar Disorder and Schizophrenia
- People with chronic illness
- The elderly

For these three particular groups special requirements may be necessary to accommodate their massage needs.

For the mentally ill suffering from depressive illness it may be necessary to provide a kind, caring, courteous and respectful attitude to make them feel safe, appreciated and respected. It is possible that these people may have an emotional episode while receiving treatment and it will be necessary to provide them with the emotional support they may need.

In addition to the emotional and psychological aspect to providing massage to someone with a depressive illness it may be necessary to use only a select few techniques to prevent any negative effects. Techniques such as tapotement can make them feel more stressed and anxious so it may be best to leave this out. Some clients will also be on medication and depending on the type; certain massage techniques may be contraindicated such as deep tissue massage.

As far as massage is concerned for people suffering depressive illness, it can be a great asset in helping these people deal with their emotions and any physical symptoms that may have manifested themselves through their condition and is a great tool to help them distress and relax. Care must be taken to prevent the client becoming too emotionally dependent on the therapist.

A chronic illness is a condition that has persisted for a long time and quite often there is no known cure, it often causes great pain and discomfort to the individual and possibly even lowers their quality of living. This condition can result in a compromised immune system which makes clinic hygiene and a good state of own personal health a high priority. Other conditions may be the result of physical injury or trauma or possibly another disease like HIV or Parkinson's.

When dealing with a person who has a chronic illness it is necessary to treat them much in the same way as someone suffering from a depressive illness: kind, caring, courteous and respectful. Massage techniques may be restricted depending on their current physical condition, medication or just simply personal preference. In some cases it may contraindicated to perform deep tissue massage and tapotement. If massage is not contraindicated then gentle, relaxing techniques like effleurage and petrissage can be performed. The key to massaging someone with a chronic illness is to help them relax.

For the elderly, receiving a massage is a chance for them to receive gentle human contact and have a chance to communicate, especially if they live in an aged care facility.

When providing massage to an elderly client it is important to provide only what they feel comfortable with. Some clients may prefer to remain seated and fully clothed others may like to lie on a bed or massage table and be undressed down to their underwear. No matter what they choose it's important to provide them with a feeling of safety, comfort and security. Just like the depressive and chronic illnesses it is important to be kind, caring, courteous and respectful.

In some cases full body massages aren't wanted and the client is happy to simply receive a hand, foot and head massage and other cases may want more. It is important to remember when performing massage on the elderly to take great care with stroke depth as the skin tends to become thin, dry, wrinkled, prone to bruising and has the possibility of tearing. Sometimes a client is happy to simply sit and talk and not worry about massage but no matter what the choice it's important for the therapist to communicate effectively with the client.

The general points in dealing with the elderly are:

- Monitor comfort and warmth
- Support weak, contracted, painful areas
- Short Session - They tire easily
- Be flexible and adaptable
- Adjust rate, rhythm, pressure and touch
- Modify massage techniques as needed
- Do not rush them
- Take time to build trust and rapport
- Listen and show interest, allow them to talk
- Be sensitive to their emotional needs
- Adapt the massage to client and situation
- Avoid deep work and be careful around the neck and chest
- Obtain permission to massage sensitive areas
- Ask what sort of help they need and support them
- Remember you are not trying to fix things or cure them
- Ensure safety on and off the table - Clean all oil off feet.

Skills required for being an effective communicator in the massage industry

• Be respectful - Every client has different needs and requirements and it's important to make them feel comfortable and secure. The therapist needs to respect the integrity of the client.


• Be a good listener - While massage is seen to be a physical profession people don't often realise it is also a form of counselling. Sometimes a client will reveal a lot of personal information while they are on the table and it's important the therapist is respectful, listens to what they say and comfort them in the process.


• Kind, Considerate and Warm - This falls in with the previous two points and without it is impossible to provide the client the feeling of safety and security


• Happy and Energetic - By portraying these emotions it can help boost the feelings of the client if they are feeling a little run down. If the client is already happy and energetic then it can lead to a very productive session, one which the client will enjoy very much.


• Be professional - Being professional gives the client the comfort they need knowing they will be respected and all the effort will be made to ensure their comfort and satisfaction. It is also necessary when problems arise.


• Compassion and Empathy - When a client is revealing personal information, something that makes feel distraught, it helps to be compassionate and empathetic to try and meet them on the same level. If there is the same level of understanding between therapist and client then the comfort of the client will be adequately met.

Experience the Ultimate in Massage Therapy With the Nuga Massage Bed

The Nuga massage bed is a multifunctional product promising an intense relaxation and therapeutic experience during a 40-minute session. The main purpose of such a massage bed is to stimulate blood circulation and cell activity in specific body parts. It promises to increase metabolic activity and serotonin oxidation thus enabling the user more energetic and optimistic.

The Nuga massage bed combines the advantages of Acupressure, Hand massage and infrared rays to provide maximum relaxation for your spine and nearby muscles and ligaments. There are jade balls embedded within its internal structure which are capable of emitting negative ions leading to increased cell metabolism which has a direct effect on lightening the user's moods and creates a feeling of wellness. It has a positive impact on the body's defense mechanism enabling it to uncover its natural healing abilities.

It comes with a Weight and Pain relief pad which can be applied on your body to stimulate cellulite decomposition and aid in constipation relief. It also claims to reduce pain, swelling and muscle spasms and strengthening muscles by improving blood circulation.

The Nuga massage bed is supported on a light but sturdy metal and wood frame. It has an inbuilt digital projector for temperature control and can be inclined from 10-30 degree on the lower as well as upper frame. It comes in an attractive Feng Shui design and boasts of very less power usage.

You can try out this special bed in some centers located in almost all big cities to experience the benefits. You can remain fully clothed during the session, only removing your shoes and belt. The first experience maybe a bit rough, so the staff might actually advise you to spread a thick towel or sheet on the bed before you lie down but within time you will get used to the pressure generated by the rollers beneath.

Physical Therapy: Benefits, Conditions, and Treatment Options

Physical therapy (PT) is a great treatment option for those in need of rehabilitation. Many people who have trouble moving around on a daily basis or who have particular injuries will benefit from these treatments. PT often decreases the level of muscle and joint pain and helps to give more range of motion. There are many benefits and uses to this type of medical treatment.

A physical therapist works with each patient to develop an appropriate treatment plan. This treatment plan is developed after analyzing each patient's level of strength, range of motion, and coordination. Different exercises and activities are performed with the help of a physical therapist in order to make daily tasks easier and to minimize physical impairments and aid in preventing further injury. PT is often the recommended treatment option for those with illness, disease or serious injury. Everyone from babies to the elderly benefits from this type of treatment.

Physical therapy involves a combination of treatment options. This includes exercises that help to improve strength, endurance, flexibility, balance and range of motion. Exercise may include weight lifting, stretching, walking, and more. A physical therapist will gradually increase the level of exercise in order to improve each patient's individual functionality and help to correct the problem at hand.

Many physical therapists utilize hot and cold packs as well as electrical stimulation to aid in treatment. This is especially common in orthopedic physical therapy which focuses on diagnosing and treating injuries and disorders that affect the joints and muscles. This is a common treatment option for people who suffer from sports related injuries, arthritis, and amputation.

As treatment progresses, a physical therapist will continue to evaluate each patient's illness or injury to monitor improvement. This will help to show if treatment needs to be modified in order to reach particular goals. While PT does take time and work, it can be an extremely beneficial treatment option.

You may benefit from physical therapy if you suffer from the following:

• Back pain


• Neck and shoulder pain


• Joint pain (arthritis)


• Balance or mobility issues


• Cardiovascular disorders


• Muscle strains


• Slip and fall injuries


• Motor Vehicle Accident injuries


• Sports injuries

This is just a small example of some of the injuries and disorders that may require physical therapy. If you have been recommended to seek PT treatment, consult with a professional physical therapist. This will help you get expert advice and personalized treatment options. With a treatment plan, you can decrease pain and improve physical performance.