Masseuse/Massage Therapy At Home

Massage Therapy At Home

=Statement of Authenticity= I confirm that:
 * This is an original assessment and is entirely my own work.
 * It contains no material previously published or written by another person or myself except where due acknowledgement is made in the text.
 * No material which to a substantial extent, has been submitted for any other academic course, is included without acknowledgement

= About Massage Therapy =

Overview
Massage is used for both relaxation and therapeutic purposes. A massage is a scientific and systemic manipulation of the soft tissues of the body to maintain or obtain the body's health using various techniques.

Benefits of Massage Therapy:
 * Reduces stress
 * May relieve headaches
 * Increases blood circulation
 * May reduces or eliminates pain
 * Improve the immune system
 * Enhances range of motion and flexibility

Types
There are various types of performing massage therapy.

Most commonly used styles are:
 * Swedish Massage
 * Trigger Point Massage
 * Deep Tissue Massage
 * Sports Massage
 * Hot Stone Massage
 * Reflexology
 * Shiatsu
 * Thai Massage
 * Indian Head Massage
 * Traditional Chinese Massage

= Massage Environment =

Table


Massage tables can be either portable, stationary or electric. A portable massage table is shown in the picture to the left.

The advantage of using a massage table is that the patient is safe comfortable and relaxed. It is also safe and ergonomic for the massage therapist if used correctly.

Massage tables should come with an adjustable face cradle, this allows the patient to breathe while lying face down. It also lengthens the table for any tall patients you may have. Otherwise the face hole within the table can also be used. When you purchase a table you may want to consider the maximum weight it can hold. You may also get other extensions such as the arm rests that are shown attached to the table in the picture. These are ideal for widening the table if needed.

The table's surface is usually padded vinyl which can be cleaned quite easily. It is recommended that a carry case is used for both the protection of the table as well as ease of transportation.

Chair
Pictured to the left is a massage chair. It's design is dedicated to being ergonomic and portable. Massages can be given on the patient's head, neck, shoulders, back, arms and hands. This kind of massage chair can be taken to any place and the patient can remained clothed. Thus, it is often used to massage in other environments such as offices, training or events. It is important when choosing a massage chair that it is light, easy to take up and down as well as sturdy. A desktop model is also available which is even more portable.

General Room Environment
In order to give a relaxing massage, it is advisable to create an environment where the patient will feel comfortable and be able to enjoy the treatment.

Some examples of massage enivironments are on the internet.

After you have chosen your massage environment (room), it will be necessary to furnish it. Therefore you must provide assisting furniture which supports while massaging and makes you and your patient comfortable. Take a look at the following example, which will show you the crucial requirements.

Lubricants


As a beginner it may seem hard to know what lubricant to use during a massage. But don't worry, it is not as difficult as it seems.

The purpose of using a lubricant is to reduce the friction between the therapists hands and the patients skin. This allows the massage therapist to massage with ease.

For a beginner it is recommended that either a massage oil or wax is used as a lubricant. There are many kinds of these on the market, it really depends on the type of massage you want to give as to what lubricant you use.

Always check with your patient what their preference is and that there are no contraindications or allergies to the massage oil or wax you will be using.

= Precautions =

Hygiene
Cleaning the Massage Environment

A clean and tidy environment is important to ensure hygiene. In addition, whoever receives a massage will feel more comfortable and able to relax more easily when he/she is not disturbed in an unclean environment.

Hand Washing

During a massage you will be touching your patient with your hands. Therefore it is necessary to wash your hands properly before starting and after you have finished the massage.

Why:
 * This will prevent the spread of infection or bacteria.
 * Removes pathogens.

How to wash hands:
 * 1) Wet hands, forearms and elbows
 * 2) You may use a brush to clean fingernails
 * 3) Rub hands with soap
 * 4) Rinse hands and arms until lather has disappeared
 * 5) Dry hands with a clean towel or paper towels
 * 6) Avoid touching anything afterwards

= How To Massage = This chapter will focus on information about Swedish Massage, the most common type of Massage Therapy.

Preperations
Before you start off, make sure have everything you need near by.

Trigger Points
http://www.pinterest.com/pin/309200330636827142/

Further Examples
= References =