Massage
is simply the manipulation of
the soft tissues of the body
- the muscles, tendons and ligaments.
A massage therapist's hands are
his most important tool through
which he not only treats the
patient but also detects physical
and emotional problems. The massage
therapist palpates the patient's
body to determine the condition
of the tissues and the likely
source of any pain, and thus
the correct form of remedial
treatment. |
Massage
works through the various body
systems in one of two ways, a
mechanical action and a reflex
action. A mechanical action is
created by moving the muscles
and soft tissues of the body
using pressure and stretching
movement, thereby cleansing them
of acids and deposits. This mechanical
action breaks up fibrous tissue
and loosens stiff joints. |
