Since massage is known to reduce stress and enhance the state of relaxation, a very common misunderstanding is that this is all a massage therapist can do. In fact, massage is often used in health facilities such as rehabilitation clinics, and it is becoming more prevalent in treatment for numerous conditions, from carpal tunnel to sciatica.
Another common myth is that massage can spread cancer within a client’s body. Since massage helps increase circulation, and cancer cells move with this circulation, it is quite easy to see how this theory came about. However, exercising has the same effect, and cancer patients are encouraged to exercise. That said, the therapist should still take certain precautions, such as avoiding areas that have been treated with radiation and tumour sites. With a knowledgeable therapist, massage can be very beneficial to those living with cancer.
Some people think they should only visit a therapist if they feel that something is wrong, such as pain, stiffness or tension. In truth, massage is considered beneficial for everyone. It’s a preventative measure that can help maintain healthy joints and tissue, allowing for more flexibility and mobility.
One thing to know about massage therapy (a reason that some people tend to shy away from massage) is that it doesn’t always provide immediate relief. Some people seem to think a single treatment would be all they need to be “fixed” – and if they can’t be fixed after one visit, they can’t be fixed at all. But it takes time to correct years of pain, and sometimes multiple visits are required.
Pregnancy and massage are two terms that should go hand in hand. Yet there remains a preconceived notion that pregnant women cannot receive massage therapy. This is false. If anything, massage therapy helps pregnant women even more than it helps non-pregnant women. Massage can decrease stress and tension, induce relaxation, and enhance the client’s well being. If this is the case for the mother, imagine the benefits for the child. Introducing healthy touch at a significantly young age can have so many positive outcomes and improve neonatal health and development. Babies thrive on their mothers; if mommy is happy, baby is happy.
“Masseuse” is a term often confused with “massage therapist,” but there is a significant difference. “Masseuse” is an old term describing a body worker who does not have the same education or credentials as a massage therapist.
