BENEFITS of MASSAGE THERAPY
Massage Therapy has been found to be very beneficial for a variety of conditions including reducing stress, reducing pain, enhancing growth and development, and decreasing depression. Many physicians, scientists, and psychologists around the globe are conducting research to learn even more about the effects of massage. Awareness of research and subsequent findings is considered essential for massage therapists everywhere. Extensive research assists in understanding patients, their needs, as well as providing the most effective therapies. It is very important as a massage therapist to be aware of a few conditions for which massage is contraindicated as well as to be aware of anatomical areas, or endangerment sites, where pressure is to be avoided. Absolute contraindications are conditions in which massage is not advised, and could be harmful to the client. Local contraindications, on the other hand, are conditions in which massage can be administered while avoiding the infected area.
SENSE OF TOUCH
The sense of touch is the body's main method for gathering information about itself and its surroundings. Touching can affect us not only physiologically, but also cognitively, psychologically, and emotionally. Out of all of the five senses, touch is the only sense that involves the entire body. The skin is considered exposed neural tissue and can detect changes in temperature, as well as communicate intrusions. It is the earliest sensory system to become functional in the human embryo, and can be detected in less than 6 weeks of age. Touch is our first means of communication and is our main organ of sensation. This makes massage a very powerful therapeutic tool.
THE EFFECTS OF MASSAGE
The effects of massage can be measured via tests called experiments, in which scientists address a hypothesis until a conclusion is reached. Controlled experiments are those experiments that eliminate any influences or biases not being tested. There are two main types of research, which include quantitative and qualitative research. Quantitative research numerically measures variables using tight controls, where as qualitative research is an attempt to examine phenomena in a more holistic manner. With qualitative research, the subjects' senses are examined, and observations are more subjective. This type of research can be more difficult to accomplish because it lacks sequential steps. Once data is gathered, results can be determined and analyzed. If the results of experiments are repeatable, they may confirm a hypothesis, and lead to the development of theories. Scientists who have very high confidence in theories make them laws.
PHYSIOLOGICAL STUDIES
Studies on the effects of touch have been conducted throughout history and many findings have been groundbreaking. Rene Spitz is one psychiatrist who explored the development of institutionalized children. Spitz found that providing only for a baby's physical needs is not sufficient for normal development. She observed young children in an orphanage who received no consistent affection from a caregiver. Of the 91 babies observed, 27 died within their first year, and those who did survive experienced mental delay or depression. When administered by a well trained and licensed therapist, massage is considered to be a very low risk and beneficial therapy. The effects of massage are extensive. It has been found to dilate blood vessels, improve blood circulation, and decrease blood pressure within the Cardiovascular System. Within the Immune Systems, massage has been found to reduce edema, and promote lymph circulation. Massage has also been found to improve skin condition, reduce stress, as well as relax muscles and relieve muscular tension. It is for these many reasons that patients who are suffering from specific conditions are often recommended massage therapy. Massage Physiology is a very complex yet fascinating topic. As studies continue, scientists are expected to learn even more about the effects of massage in the years to come.
