A BRIEF HISTORY OF MASSAGE

Massage is considered to be among the oldest of all treatments used by man. Records dating back as far as 3,000 years were made by the Chinese, documenting its use. The ancient Hindus, Persians, and Egyptians used forms of massage for some ailments and Hypocrites wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems. Today, massage is an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs and has proven a benefit to many chronic conditions such as low back pain, arthritis, and bursitis. Massage helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living
 
 

CAN MASSAGE, BODYWORK, OR SOMATIC THERAPIES BENEFIT ME?

Massage provides relief to people from all walks of life.  The weekend or competitive athlete, the home gardener, the over stressed executive struggling to keep pace in today's economy. Secretaries, laborers, waitresses anyone can feel a need for massage at some point in time. The older population, as well, will benefit from massage, as it enhances flexibility and circulation. The bedridden can also be helped in this regard.

There are some conditions where massage is not recommended, however there are no contra-indications for Ortho-Bionomy®. I will ask for information regarding any specific health conditions from which you may be suffering in order to determine if massage, bodywork, or somatic therapies are contraindicated. In some cases, I may need your doctor's permission before providing services.
 

WILL MY INSURANCE COVER MASSAGE OR BODYWORK SERVICES?

If you are in a car accident or have a job related injury covered by worker's compensation, insurance may cover massage, bodywork, or somatic therapies when prescribed by a physician. If your insurance covers chiropractic or osteopathic services, the services of a bodywork professional may be covered when prescribed by a chiropractor or osteopath. Therapies provided as part of the prescribed treatment by a physician or registered physical therapist are often covered. The best thing to do is check with your insurance company to see exactly what is covered under what circumstances.
You will be responsible for payment in full at time of service, regardless of coverage and I will provide you with any information you need to file your claim.
   

MASSAGE FOR PAIN  and EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS
With many chronic ailments, massage can relieve the pain and help heal. As with physical problems, emotional problems may also be stimulated into self healing with massage. In many cases, this helps eliminate the need to take harmful chemical drugs, which will unnecessarily burden the liver, kidneys and other vital organs. Drinking plenty of water the three days  after body work sessions assists in this elimination process.
 

TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF
Care of your body should be at the top of your priority list. You will feel and look better if you take the necessary steps regarding health and nutrition in this age of increased longevity.  Stress relief alone can improve your vitality and state of mind. Massage, bodywork, and somatic therapies should play an important role in your life. 8 oz. of water for each 20 lb. of body weight consumed daily to assist with proper body metabolism and 15 minutes of deep focused breathing every day, complimented by a weekly 4 lb. Epsom salt bath soak and an  extra liter of drinking water, green tea or herbal tea for flushing metabolic toxins will greatly improve one's outlook on life.

Like I'm always telling you, "Breathe and drink water.  Take good care of yourself, no one else can or will ..."
 
 

© 1997 Associated Bodywork Massage Professionals and edited by OB