Massage therapy is a treatment  primarily using hands in which the soft tissues of the body are kneaded, rubbed, tapped, and stroked.

Massage promotes muscle relaxation, which contributes to physical and emotional well-being. Research indicates that massage can help to relieve the perception of pain, reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and improve mood.

There are different types of massage. The most common are Swedish Massage and Deep Muscle Massage (also known as Deep Tissue Massage).

• Swedish Massage uses five styles of long, flowing strokes to massage: The five basic strokes are sliding/gliding; kneading; rhythmic tapping; cross fiber and vibration/shaking. Swedish Massage helps reduce stress.
• Deep Muscle Massage focuses on the muscles below the surface. It is not uncommon for receivers of deep tissue massage to have their pain replaced with a new muscle ache for a day or two. (Deep Muscle Massage is not the same as "deep pressure" massage which is performed with sustained, strong pressure throughout an entire full-body session).

Massage therapy should only be performed by a certified therapist.

Before hiring a masseur or masseuse, 

• Ask what kind of massage the person gives. Massage is performed in many different ways.
• Be sure the person has a license if required by your state. The majority of states require licensing. To find out about the law in your state and for contact information to the governing body which can let you know if a particular person is licensed, see: www.naturalhealers.com/qa/massage-state-boards.html  
• Check to find out if he or she is a member of the National Certification Board For Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (see below).  To become nationally certified, a practitioner must demonstrate mastery of core skills and knowledge, pass an NCBTMB standardized exam, uphold the organization's standards and code of ethics, and take part in continued education.
• Check with your doctor to be sure the type of massage in which you are interested does not interfere with treatment or your condition. In any event, to provide best care, your doctor needs to know about all complementary methods you are using. (To learn more about complementary treatments, see the document in To Learn More). 
• Check your insurance to find out if massage therapy is covered. It may be in certain instances.

You can locate a massage therapist through the National Certification Board For Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork www.ncbtmb.org . Click on "Find A Massage Therapist". Tel.: 800.296.0664 or 703.610.9015

NOTE: If you have any muscular or skeletal problems, be sure to tell the massage therapist so there is no harm to the affected area.

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