Massage can be defined as the systematic and manual manipulation of the body's soft tissue for therapeutic purposes promoting health and well-being. The basic goal of massage therapy is to help the body heal itself and to increase health and well-being. Massage has evolved from a combination of Eastern and Western traditions. By far the greatest advancement of therapeutic massage recorded in history was by a Swedish physiologist named Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839), who created a scientific system of massage movements and techniques known as Swedish Massage. Today, massage is a multidimensional skill encompassing a wide variety of ever evolving techniques, many of which have their roots in the Swedish system. Touch is the core ingredient of massage therapy, combining science and art. Touch also conveys a sense of caring, an important component in the healing relationship. Practitioners use their instinct for touch to apply specific techniques for massage, including fixed or movable pressure, holding and causing body movement. Therapists primarily use their hands, but may also use their forearms, or elbows.

The general public is now very aware of the value of massage in combating the stresses and tensions of modern living. Massage can also be used to enhance self-esteem, while boosting the circulatory and immune systems to benefit blood pressure, muscle tone, digestion, and skin tone. Athletes, sports people and dancers include massage in their training schedules to aid recovery and to prevent or treat soft tissue injuries. When muscles are overworked, waste products such as lactic acid can accumulate in the muscle, causing soreness, stiffness, and even muscle spasm. Massage improves circulation, which increases blood flow, bringing fresh oxygen to body tissues. This can assist the elimination of waste products, speed healing after injury, increases mobility in joints, brings relief from chronic pain and reduces swelling and inflammation. At Therapedia Rehabilitation Centre, we provide a comprehensive and objective look at all aspects of massage therapy: history, benefits, types of massage, safety and more, while encouraging communication and post massage care. We look forward to seeing you.