Massage therapy began thousands of years ago and first appeared in writings from ancient China, Japan, India, and Western countries, as well as Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Hippocrates defined medicine as the “art of rubbing,” and massage therapy was widely used in Renaissance Europe. In 1850, two American doctors, studying in Sweden, introduced massage therapy to the United States, where it became popular and promoted as a diverse method for health purposes. With the advancement of science and technology in medical care during the 1930s and 1940s, it went out of fashion. But massage therapy in Bellevue, WA is reviving again, especially among athletes.
What is massage therapy?
In general, it is about rubbing and activating the muscles and other soft tissues in the body. The therapist uses his hands and fingers. Or, they use their fists, elbows, and feet as different methods of massage. In addition, to produce satisfactory long-term results, massage therapy can be combined with chiropractic, hydrotherapy, and physiotherapy.
Swedish massage
Swedish massage is performed in deep circular movements and long movements. A massage for athletes is the same as a Swedish massage and is specially adapted to the needs of athletes. Sore and tight muscles respond to stress through release. Deep tissue massage and pain point massage, focus on healing and releasing the painful areas of the body.
How to treat a massage?
A massage therapist works in a wide variety of settings, including in private clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, private homes, and fitness centers. The goal of treatment is to provide a calm and relaxing environment.
The patient is lying on a treatment table, dressed in loose clothing or naked and covered with a sheet, except for the massage area. The therapist uses oil or cream to reduce friction on the skin. The course of treatment may be quite short but may even take an hour or more.
The effect of massage on the body and mind
Studies support the general conclusion that massage therapy is effective for curing or alleviating various medical and mental conditions. The treatment reduces anxiety, blood pressure, and accelerated heart rate. Regular treatment reduces a general tendency to anxiety, depression, and pain. In addition, it is beneficial for certain medical conditions, such as: Chronic lower back pain.