Massage is one of the oldest healing arts: Chinese records dating back
3,000 years document its use; the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians
applied forms of massage for many ailments; and Hippocrates wrote papers
recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory
problems. Today, the
benefits
of massage are varied and far-reaching. As an accepted part of many
physical rehabilitation programs, massage therapy has also proven beneficial
for many chronic conditions, including low back pain, arthritis, bursitis,
fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, immunity suppression, infertility,
smoking cessation, depression, and more. And, as many millions will attest,
massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living that
can lead to disease and illness.
So
What Is It Exactly?
Massage, bodywork and somatic therapies are defined as the application
of various techniques to the muscular structure and soft tissues of the
human body. Specifically:
Massage:
The application of soft-tissue manipulation techniques to the
body, generally intended to reduce stress and fatigue while improving
circulation. The many variations of massage account for several different
techniques.
Bodywork:
Various forms of touch therapies that may use manipulation, movement,
and/or repatterning to affect structural changes to the body.
Somatic:
Meaning “of the body.” Many times this term is used to denote
a body/mind or whole-body approach as distinguished from a physiology-only
or environmental perspective.
There are
more than 250 variations
of massage, bodywork, and somatic therapies and many practitioners utilize
multiple techniques. The application of these techniques may include,
but is not limited to, stroking, kneading, tapping, compression, vibration,
rocking, friction, and pressure to the muscular structure or soft tissues
of the human body. This may also include non-forceful passive or active
movement and/or application of techniques intended to affect the energetic
systems of the body. The use of oils, lotions, and powders may also be
included to reduce friction on the skin. Click here
for more information on what to expect.
Please note: Massage, bodywork and somatic therapies specifically exclude
diagnosis, prescription, manipulation or adjustments of the human skeletal
structure, or any other service, procedure or therapy which requires a
license to practice orthopedics, physical therapy, podiatry, chiropractic,
osteopathy, psychotherapy, acupuncture, or any other profession or branch
of medicine.
Will My Insurance Cover It?
The services of a bodywork professional may be covered by health insurance
when prescribed by a chiropractor or osteopath. Therapies provided as
part of a prescribed treatment by a physician or registered physical therapist
are often covered.
