The practice of massage therapy originated from ancient techniques dating back to 2700 BCE (or earlier) in India, where it was considered a sacred system of natural healing. Used by Hindus in Ayurveda “Life health” medicine, massage therapy was a practice passed down through generations to heal injuries, relieve pain, and prevent and cure illnesses. As culture and history evolved, the healing methods of massage travelled to Chian and Southeast Asia. Chinese massage methods developed a combination of skills and practices of traditional Chinese medicine, martial arts and the spiritual yoga training of Buddhists and Taoists.
Even in Egyptian tomb paintings evidence of massage was found. The Egyptians added their own bodywork techniques and are credited with developing reflexology. The Egyptians influenced the Greeks and Romans who used massage therapy in different ways. In Greece, between 800 and 700 BCE, athletes used massage to condition their bodies before competitions, and doctors often applied herbs and oils in combination with massage to treat various medical conditions.
Massage is increasingly being offered along with standard treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations. A common misconception about massage is that it is only part of a spa day and intended for pampering. While this may be true for some people, it is most frequently a tool for stress reduction and pain relief.
Specific conditions that regular massage can help include:
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Digestive disorders
• Fibromyalgia
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Nerve pain
• Postoperative care
• Scar tissue
• Soft tissue strains and injuries
• Sports injuries
• Temporomandibular (TMJ) disorders
For most patients, massage therapy is an important part of specific medical treatment plans to help them return to daily activities. Massage therapy is helpful after joint replacement surgery or injury.
Physical benefits of regular massage include:
• Improved circulation
• Decreased muscle stiffness
• Decreased joint inflammation
• Better quality of sleep
• Quicker recovery between workouts
• Improved flexibility
• Less pain and soreness
• Strengthened immune response
Massage has mental health benefits such as lower stress levels, improved relaxation, improved mood, decreased anxiety, increased feeling of wellness.