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Monday, October 19, 2009
Piriformis Syndrome
The most commonly overlooked source of sciatic
pain is caused by impingement of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle. When this muscle, which is located under the
gluteal muscles becomes tight, compression of the sciatic nerve occurs causing pain. Sciatic pain is typically experienced
down the back of the leg and/or lower back and is accompanied by deep gluteal and/or hip pain. The pain usually worsens with
sitting, climbing stairs, or squatting, as these motions contract the piriformis muscle further compressing the sciatic nerve.
Massage therapy is a highly effective treatment for piriformis syndrome. Because massage therapy loosens restricted muscles
it releases the tightened muscle that is compressing the sciatic nerve and the pain in alleviated. True sciatic nerve pain, which is caused by a
disc herniation in the lumbar spine can be improved with gentle massage therapy, but unlike piriformis syndrome cannot be
repaired with massage. Please consult your physician if you believe you may be experiencing sciatic nerve pain, as they will
be able to diagnose the problem.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Chronic Dehydration
Did you know that the human body is made up of almost 75%
water? An estimated 90% of Americans suffer from mild, chronic dehydration. This can lead to high blood pressure, asthma,
allergies, colitis, constipation, rheumatoid arthritis, and migraines. One of the first signs of chronic dehydration contrary
to popular belief is not dry mouth. Dyspeptic pain ranging from heartburn to GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disorder), joint
pain, and fatigue, are more common indications of dehydration. Soda, coffee, tea, and beer are not substitutes for water! They
actually act as diuretics in the body, increasing dehydration. For every soda, coffee, tea, or beer ingested, you must drink,
two glass of water to counteract the effects. Drinking enough water; aids in digestion, regulates body temperature
and blood circulation, carries nutrients and oxygen to cells, removes toxins from the body, and assists in weight loss. Please
remember to drink one half to two thirds ounces of water per pound of body weight daily to stay hydrated. Please consult
your physician if you have any health conditions or are taking any medications that may affect your body’s ability to
retain or absorb water.
Sat, September 26, 2009 | link
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Client and Massage Therapist Communication
To
experience the best massage possible the client and massage therapist must have effective communication before, during, and
after a massage session. It is the massage therapist’s responsibility during the pre-massage consultation to listen
carefully to what the client expects out of their massage session, repeat back what they are hearing, and ask questions if
necessary. Your massage therapist may suggest certain massage techniques they believe would benefit you most during your session.
But if you prefer a different technique or a specific issue to be addressed, please let your massage therapist know. It is
also necessary for the client to provide a complete medical history to the best of their knowledge. During
the massage, though they’d love to be able to, your massage therapist cannot read your mind. Your massage therapist
strives to create a therapeutic environment to assist with pain relief, stress reduction and relaxation. Therefore, the massage
therapist will talk as little as possible. So, it is imperative that if at any time you are uncomfortable you let your massage
therapist know. Whether you are too cold or warm, if the pressure is too deep or too light, if you do not like a particular
massage technique or massage stroke they are using, please speak up. A massage is about your comfort, it is your time to relax,
and enjoy.
After the massage, your massage therapist will ask how you enjoyed your massage. Please give them feedback about what
you liked or disliked during the massage. This will give the massage therapist an opportunity to explain why they may have
used certain massage techniques, and make it easier to tailor a massage to your needs on your next massage session. Your massage
therapist will ask you to increase your water intake for 24-48 hours following your massage session. This is because massage
increases blood flow, our blood is made up of 95% water, and it is necessary for your body to be well hydrated to experience
the full benefits of massage therapy.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Repetitive Stress
Overuse of muscles can result in Repetitive Strain Injury. You don't have to be an athlete to suffer from injury. Muscles can be strained by seeminly non-strenuous repetitive
motions. Simply placing too much stress on a specific joint can pull the tendons and muscles around the joint. So whether you; play sports, have a physically demanding profession, play an instrument, or spend lots of time
on the computer, listen to the warning signs and don't ignore your body! If you feel fatigue, tremors, or loss of strength, take a break, drink water, and remember
to stretch. If these symptoms persist, see your physician to avoid possibly debilitating complications.
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2009.09.01 |
2009.01.01
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The Art of Touch MM19675 * 12551
Indian Rocks Road Suite 2 * Largo, FL 33774 * (727) 593-3600
MA48710 MA48659 MA49221 Disclaimer: Medical information found on this website is for informational
purposes only. Nothing contained on this website should be construed nor is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.
It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. Always consult with
your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before embarking on a new treatment, diet or fitness program.
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