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Many chiropractors are noting the improvements in patients who combine both chiro and massage therapy. From pain relief to improved posture and even a reduction in stress and anxiety levels, this multimodal therapy approach can mean rapid recovery and improved wellbeing in all types of people.

If you’re interested to find out how combining both massage therapy and chiropractic work can help you in your treatment regimen, read on.

Difference between chiropractic and massage therapy

Both chiropractic and massage therapy aims to provide relief from chronic pain. But what sets the two modalities apart?

Chiropractic treatment

Chiropractors are skilled in musculoskeletal alignment, focusing more on the practice of spinal health. If the spine is out of alignment, it can cause all types of health issues including hormone imbalances, headaches/migraines, mood changes, poor posture and chronic muscle pain and tension.

A visit to your chiropractor will involve both a visual and physical assessment of the spine and surrounding tissue, as well as x-rays and blood work if needed. This will be followed by a quick and painless adjustment of the spine, where you’ll be asked to lie on a table so that your chiropractor can crack, pop, push and twist sections of your body to bring it back into alignment.

Chiropractors believe that correct alignment of the spine can help the nervous system and restore normal joint and muscle function.

Massage therapy

While massage therapy is used for pain reduction and relaxation, it doesn’t always result in a medical diagnosis. Massage therapists focus on the muscular tissue and tendons and can deal with any muscle imbalances or tensions that may be the cause of chronic pain or poor posture.

Like chiropractors, massage therapists focus on manipulating the soft tissues of the musculoskeletal system to reduce pain and inflammation. However, unlike chiropractors, massage therapists aren’t licensed to perform spinal adjustments.

For that reason, massage therapy can be a great add-on to regular chiropractic visits, as a chiropractor can diagnose an ailment (such as a herniated disc) and a massage therapist can provide relief from the radiated pain and any emotional stress caused by the ailment – helping to boost the healing process.

Benefits of combining chiropractic and massage therapy

1. Better outcomes and alignment

While chiropractic treatment focuses on spine alignment and musculoskeletal health, massage therapy targets the musculoskeletal structure such as the soft tissues, muscles, tendons and fascia in the body. When combined, patients have a better chance of pain alleviation and even eradication of chronic pain or tension-related ailments such as migraines and insomnia.

2. Pain relief and prevention

Both massage and chiropractic therapy will help to get rid of chronic pain and further prevent pain from reoccurring.

Massage helps to relax the muscle tissue surrounding the musculoskeletal structure. If a patient is experiencing misalignment in the spine or some sort of joint mobility issue, they are likely to be suffering from tight, restricted muscles. With combined chiro and massage, pain will be greatly reduced and prevented as both practitioners work on correcting the function of the spine or joints as well as loosening the muscle tissue supporting these structures.

3. Improved circulation

When used together, chiropractic and massage therapy can improve circulation in the body by increasing healthy blood flow and relieving muscle tension.

An increase in blood flow helps to make the muscles more elastic, improving range of motion and facilitating correct muscle and joint function. Improved circulation also helps aid lymphatic drainage, correcting the nervous system and increasing the body’s natural immune function.

4. Reduced stress

Massage therapy has great potential to improve mood and reduce stress & anxiety. Used in conjunction with chiropractic work, the body is alleviated of physical tension and stress, allowing the nervous system to regulate and the mind to become more relaxed.

On top of that, visiting a chiropractor and massage therapist boosts endorphins – your body’s natural mood regulators. Being in a safe and supportive environment while receiving tension-melting treatment is a great recipe for improved wellbeing and a more positive mental state.

5. Quicker recovery

Patients who combine both therapies have a much better chance of recovering from pain faster. Choosing both modalities as part of a single holistic health plan gives you a more thorough treatment. Since both the muscles and the skeletal system of the body rely on each other for optimum function, combining both massage therapy and chiropractic work ensures all areas of the body are healthy.

For athletes, regular chiro and massage will improve your post-recovery and help you bounce back from injury quicker. Tendons will remain more relaxed and any imbalances in either the muscles or the spine will be corrected to support injury prevention.

Combining chiropractic care with massage therapy

Correct spinal alignment is crucial to a healthy spine, neck and head. Since these major skeletal structures are supported by muscles and tendons, it makes sense that a treatment plan combining both chiropractic and massage therapies can help keep the body in top health.

Discover Massage Australia can support you in growing your massage business. Learn different massage modalities with our range of massage courses, and get insider advice on how to work with other health practitioners to deliver the best treatment results for your clients.

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Stomach massage is a practice that has been around for centuries. It has been shown to improve digestion and stomach upsets as well as improve the body’s immune function.

In addition to alleviating gut-related pain and digestive issues, stomach massage may also be used to strengthen weak abdominal muscles – improving posture and preventing injury.

Abdominal massage is a type of massage that is often neglected. Here are some of the reasons why it should be included in a practice.

What is abdominal massage?

An abdominal massage is a gentle form of massage, focusing on relaxing and healing the muscles surrounding the abdomen.

A range of techniques can be used by a massage therapist, all of which are painless and non-invasive. You can get an abdominal massage to treat a number of symptoms including constipation, bloating and muscle tightness.

Abdominal massage can have a positive effect on both physical and mental wellbeing, allowing clients to find relief from pain and anxiety relating to the stomach, digestive system and reproductive organs including the pelvic floor.

Abdominal Massage Benefits

1. Improves Digestion Function

Stomach massage has its roots in ancient Chinese medicine. It has been used as a centuries-old practise to detoxify the body and improve digestive health.Since emotional stress is held in the gut, the act of massaging the stomach can help to reduce tension and heal the emotional body – resulting in fewer digestive complaints. As the muscles in the stomach relax, digestion is stimulated and clients can enjoy fewer stomach upsets such as gas, bloating and cramping. Gentle pressure applied in a clockwise motion around the stomach can help those with serious digestive issues as well as those with an endotracheal tube.

2. Relieves Constipation
Massaging the stomach can relieve constipation and help improve bowel movements and frequency. As the stomach muscles relax with gentle, sustained pressure, the digestive system ‘wakes up’ and gets everything moving. Studies into abdominal massage and constipation found that the group who received massage to the stomach experienced a reduction in constipation and an increase in regular, healthy bowel movements. Incorporating essential oils such as peppermint may also enhance the benefits of abdominal massage. Massage therapists can also focus on the CV6 and CV12 acupressure points to further improve constipation symptoms.

3. Boosts Immune System

A significant portion of our immune system is located within the gut. A healthy gut contributes to better overall health and immunity, helping our bodies to fight viruses and diseases. By getting an abdominal massage, the lymphatic system is stimulated, leading to detoxification and a boost to the body’s natural defence system.

4. Improves Posture

The abdominal muscles make up your core muscle group. If the muscles in the core are weak or too tight, it can lead to poor form and bad posture resulting in injury. Abdominal massage can rectify this by loosening the ab muscles and improving elasticity. This makes the muscles more fluid and able to attain a full range of motion and function.

5. Releases Physical Tension and Emotional Stress

Most people have felt a “knot in the gut” when stressed or anxious. This uneasy feeling can be accompanied by trapped gas and muscle spasms, including pelvic floor dysfunction.The act of abdominal massage has both psychological and physical benefits. For one, massage induces relaxation, allowing the nervous system to regulate and induce a sense of calmness in mind and body. Secondly, physical pressure applied to the stomach releases any knots or physical tension associated with emotional stress.

6. Alleviate PMS Pain

Those who experience PMS are no strangers to stomach-related issues including pain, cramping, bloating, gas and indigestion. From menstruation to ovulation and reproductive-related issues such as PCOS and endometriosis, women’s bodies are susceptible to pain and sensitivities in the abdominal and pelvic regions. Abdominal massage can act as a natural pain relief for PMS and related symptoms by reducing muscle spasms, relaxing the stomach and pelvic floor muscles, and improving overall mood.

Incorporating abdominal massage therapy in your practice

The gentle, healing benefits of abdominal massage makes it a must in any massage practice or treatment plan. Promoting both physical and psychological health, abdominal massage improves the quality of life and is a great way to regulate crucial bodily functions for optimum health and vitality.

Discover Massage Australia is here to help you grow your massage business! Learn different types of massage and use your skills to start your own practice or to expand your in-practice treatment menu. Contact us today to find out why you should study with us!

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What is reflexology?

Reflexology is a type of foot massage focusing on individual reflex points in the feet to create healing outcomes for corresponding organs and areas in the body. Different massage techniques apply to the feet as in any other type of massage. During a reflexology session, the massage therapist might knead the ball of the foot, pull on the toes, and apply pressure to the arch of the foot.

Foot massage dates back thousands of years to ancient Egypt and China. It was rediscovered or introduced in modern times by European and North American doctors in the 19th and early 20th centuries as zone theory to treat a range of ailments, from headaches and sinus problems to digestive issues.

The zone theory divides the body into ten vertical zones containing different body p and corresponding to the ten fingers and toes. Touching these fingers and toes provides access to the body parts associated with the zone.

At about the same time, British scientists established a link between the skin’s nerves and internal organs. They also concluded the body’s nervous system responded to outside factors, including touch.

For these reasons, reflexologists believe touch can calm the central nervous system, promote relaxation, and deliver many other benefits as other forms of massage do.

Using reflexology to increase blood flow

Foot massages feel fantastic for stressed-out individuals, and they can deliver additional health benefits if a qualified reflexologist is involved. Reflexologists believe general health and wellbeing starts at the feet and moves up the body.

The upper extremities closer to your heart typically have better blood flow due to this powerful organ’s proximity. Areas of your body with good circulation nearly always heal faster, grow faster, and repair more quickly. Your legs and feet, further from the heart, don’t receive the same level of benefit. That is why people with diabetes, which further impairs circulation in the legs and feet, must exercise great care to prevent injury since they will not heal quickly and easily worsen.

Using reflexology to promote blood flow to these starved areas can improve delivery of much-needed nutrient-rich blood for people with and without diabetes.

It’s not just blood flow that is improved. A reflexology session provides deep relaxation, which can reduce the severity of colds and minor ailments, enhance energy levels, and help with stress. Your reflexology clients could enjoy better lymph circulation, decreased injury levels, and find relief from chronic conditions such as skin allergies, liver dysfunction, headaches, and IBS.

Many believe reflexology enhances toxin elimination, improves immune systems and circulation, promotes general healing and wellbeing, reduces anxiety, adds clarity, and relieves sore and tired muscles.

Incorporating reflexology into your practice

Reflexology can be incorporated into a massage session or provided as a standalone service for clients. Reflexology sessions should start with a patient’s health history check to assess whether this type of massage is appropriate. The initial discussion will also help the reflexologist work out if any key areas need attention.

If so, the reflexologist will work on the corresponding points on the patient’s feet, or even hands and ears. If there are no specific problem areas in the body, the reflexologist might concentrate on the entire foot to strengthen the whole body.

Setting expectations

Experience reflexologists will prepare new patients by letting them know what to expect from their reflexology session. Tingling, lightness, warmth, and a sense of energy moving through the body are common. Patients can experience sweat in the hands or feet, feeling cold, coughing, thirst, muscle or organ relaxation, and even crying or muscle contractions. Talking about these before the session helps prepare the patient for these effects.

The reflexologist can loosen up the ligaments and nerves around the ankle area to prepare the foot for direct pressure later. After that, you can apply some lotion to the feet and start relaxing the feet one at a time with essential pressing and squeezing, light slapping, or gentle kneading.

Delivering a good reflexology session

Start at the heel area and move upward towards the arch of the foot, the ball, and the toes. Movements such as twisting the foot gently back and forth so the small toe moves towards the sole and then back towards the top of the foot can also help loosen up the foot’s ligaments and nerves. Reflexologists will also incorporate massage movements such as folding toes back and forth, pinching the toes and twisting them and curling them to warm up.

An experienced massage therapist will avoid touching or brushing the feet lightly during the reflexology session since this can be ticklish for the patient and lead to discomfort. Firm pressing or grasping are the best ways to handle the feet during reflexology.

As for a regular body massage, the patient is clothed and either seated or lying down. It can be a good idea to have the patient avoid eating within one hour before the session, and pregnant patients might want to prevent reflexology altogether.

Wrapping up a reflexology session

As the massage therapist, you should advise patients to drink plenty of water afterwards to flush out toxins and the lactic acid build-up during massages. Patients with specific foot problems such as injuries, clots, or varicose veins should seek professional advice before receiving reflexology.

Knowing the true benefits of reflexology

Reflexology has been around for thousands of years, and it makes an excellent complement to a standard body massage. Massage therapists can use it to help clients achieve more profound relaxation, stress alleviation, and possibly healing for specific conditions or areas of the body.

At Discover Massage Australia therapists learn a wide variety of techniques for treating client ailments, pain, and stress. Our whole body weekend course can ensure you have the knowledge needed to help your patients lead a healthier, happier life.

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Massage therapy relaxes or eases the pain of someone else, and it is rewarding. Some massage therapists feel a heightened sense of wellness after performing a massage — benefitting from the comfort they have brought their patient.

In other cases, caring for someone else can drain the massage therapist emotionally, especially if the patient is critically ill. To be effective in a health-related role, you must be emotionally fit and strong, or the well-being of your clients can become overwhelming.

How to tell if you have time for a side job

Generally speaking, working from home is less stressful than commuting to an office each day, primarily because it offers more flexibility. If massage therapy is your side hustle, you can meet with clients in their home, your home, or massage business. Many jobs do not offer this many options.

Second jobs are inherently challenging to manage because there is another job that has priority. Yet being available to your clients when they need you is critical to success. Depending upon what your primary job is, you may only have evenings, early morning, or weekends available for your clients and that may not coincide with their availability.

The goal of becoming a massage therapist and providing accessible services to your clients is achievable. Still, you may need to spend more time building a base of regular massage clients who can work within your availability. By developing rapport and providing outstanding services, you will find they are much more willing to accommodate your schedule, just as you are eager to accommodate theirs to the extent you can.

Getting your new workplace set up

Part of the success of building such a clientele is the ability to provide services in almost anywhere the client is comfortable. If you intend to provide services from your home, you will save money on rent and enjoy greater convenience.

It’s not necessarily a bad image if they see you with your children or amid household chores, but you must make efforts to separate your personal life from your business. Conversely, there are risks associated with opening your home to strangers, and you may need additional insurance.

If working for home is the best option, here are some things to think about:

• Create a separate massage room, used only for clients that is quiet and calming.
• Designate a separate bathroom for clients close to the massage room.
• If a private entrance is not available, limit the exposure your clients have to your house.
• Mark the front entrance with a sign, so clients know they are at the right place.
• Greet your clients warmly and make them comfortable from the moment you meet them
• Always greet clients at the door and give them a mini-tour and show them where the massage room is, where the bathroom is, and where the robe is.
• Explain in detail what you will be doing, when it will start, and when it will end.
• Only accept patients referred to you by people you know, which can be difficult when you are first starting your business. As you build a trusted clientele, it becomes easier.
• Put a security system in place to make you feel safer. Tell someone when clients are coming and when they are leaving and confirm they have done so.
• Keep your house clean at all times—you never know when you will get an urgent call for a session.
• Keep your mind on the task at hand by turning off your phone and other distractions.
• Keep other household members away from the massage room, including pets.
• Keep records in a locked file cabinet and observe best practices at all times for keeping your clients’ information private.
• Set cancellation policies and other policies and make sure your customers understand them. Working from your home can seem less formal, and clients may take advantage of the lax environment.
• Do not allow pets in the massage room at any time. Many people are allergic to pet dander.
• You are a professional, so dress for work. Your clients will feel you take their needs more seriously if you’re not wearing pyjama bottoms and slippers.

How much could you make?

The average wage for a massage therapist in Australia should expect to be making around $60-$80 per hour. This rate applies to full-time and part-time therapists, which makes it a perfect side hustle. When compared to side hustles outside the health industry, such as being an Uber driver, you can earn as much as $15 – $20 more per hour. When you add that to the low-stress work environment, and the joy you get from providing others with healing services, becoming a massage therapist is an attractive proposition.

How to become a massage therapist with industry-recognized courses from Discover Massage Australia

Discover Massage Australia offers both face-to-face and online courses so you can become a massage therapist in just two days—all in one weekend. The course is entirely hands-on and ensures you have the skills and knowledge you need to begin a second job with confidence. As soon as you enrol, you get immediate access to the online course. You can get started early and practice to prepare yourself for the hands-on weekend course. Students who complete the Whole Body Massage course can join the MAA or IICT and purchase professional Indemnity Insurance. Membership in these organisations facilitates the purchase of Professional Indemnity insurance, which enables you to practice professionally.

The Massage Association of Australia (MAA) and the International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT) fully recognise our online courses, and are a great way to launch into your new career in massage.

The post What to Consider Before Making Massage Your Side Hustle appeared first on Discover Massage Australia.

Common causes of shoulder pain

The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint consisting of three main bones: the humerus, clavicle, and scapula. These bones are cushioned by a layer of cartilage and are surrounded by many tendons and muscle fibres. When something goes wrong in any of these areas, it can lead to pain and problems with mobility.

Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders and is generally caused by four major conditions:

• Tendonitis or tendon tear
• Shoulder instability
• Arthritis
• Fracture or broken bone.

Other causes of shoulder pain can include a major shoulder surgery (for example, a shoulder reconstruction), tumours, infection, and nerve-related problems.

4 ways massage can help to manage shoulder pain

No matter the cause of your shoulder pain, massage therapy can be used to effectively increase your range of motion, ease pain, and prevent further injury of the shoulder. This is because a shoulder massage delivers the following benefits to anyone suffering from shoulder pain:

1. Increases blood supply

Massage therapy helps to increase the volume of fresh blood supply reaching your muscles, feeding them with oxygen-rich nutrients. This works to naturally lower blood pressure and improve circulation, which helps to increase the range of movement within the shoulder joint. The shoulder muscles are then able to relax so that tension can begin to dissipate, relieving shoulder pain.

2. Increases range of motion

Massage therapy can help release tightness in the muscles surrounding the shoulder, allowing for a more free range of motion in the joint. Working with the deeper layers of tissues surrounding the shoulder, muscle fibres are lengthened and trigger points are released, improving the function of the shoulder joint and relieving pain.

3. Strengthens and stabilises muscles

As mentioned above, shoulder instability or muscle imbalance can result in shoulder pain. Massage therapy can help to strengthen and stabilise muscles, and improve posture and shoulder position. Deep tissue massage and trigger point massage therapy are particularly beneficial for shoulder pain, working to relieve tension along the nerve pathways of the neck and shoulder. The combination of firm pressure and slow strokes to reach the deeper layers of muscle and fascia can treat chronic pain by breaking up scar tissue and relieving shoulder impingement. Massage can also help to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles and scapular muscles to reduce the chance of dislocations and shoulder joint instability.

4. Treats sports-related injuries

Progressive overload plays a big role in shoulder pain and injury. Activities like lifting heavy weights at the gym can lead to muscle fatigue, and this can cause other muscles to overcompensate, resulting in injury. Massage can help to relieve sports-related injury and pain, as well as prevent further injury. Sports massage therapy is used to treat sports injuries and muscle strains, helping to correct soft tissue muscle imbalances caused by repetitive motions.

How to find the right massage therapist for shoulder pain

No matter what has caused your shoulder pain, a professional massage therapist will be able to diagnose and treat it. If you’re suffering from shoulder pain, you may want to look for a massage therapist that specialises in shoulder pain and other musculoskeletal conditions. A quick Google search or referral from your family doctor can guide you to massage therapists in your area.

Before making an appointment, check to make sure your chosen massage therapist:

• Has relevant credentials or qualifications in massage therapy
• Works in a clean, professional clinic or office
• Has good reviews on their website or social media pages
• Is licensed and carries indemnity insurance.

Relieve shoulder pain with massage

Regular massage therapy can be helpful in not only reducing shoulder pain, but also preventing shoulder pain. A professional massage therapist, such as those who carry qualifications from Discover Massage Australia, can expertly treat your shoulder pain and provide you with an injury management plan. A qualified massage therapist will address muscle imbalances, poor posture, and any conditions that may be contributing to your shoulder complaints to provide you with effective relief.

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Before you get started, it’s important to remember that if the recipient has any neck, shoulder or back pain that they should seek out a professional massage therapist to assist them with what could be a serious injury. Without proper care, your massage could turn into a trip to the physiotherapist.

If this is the case, many professional massage therapists also do home visits; and you could even book two at the same time for a couples’ experience in the comfort of your own home.Here are Discover Massage Australia’s top picks for at-home massage techniques will help you get started.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is great for relieving chronic stress within a specific area of the body, and is usually done using your elbow. Don’t go too hard or too fast, as this type of massage can be painful. Instead, ease into creating more pressure and ask your sweetheart if the pressure is OK for them.

Full Body

A full body massage can mean many different things, as it uses a variety of techniques including Relaxation and Deep Tissue. Ideally, a full body massage targets the feet, legs, hips, back, neck, shoulders, arms, hands and even the face. The best way for beginners doing a full body massage is to ensure your hands are well oiled, and you are making long, smooth strokes down the body with cupped hands.Aromatic

Adding aromatic oils to your massage oil will truly enhance the experience and help further relax your partner. Scents such as chamomile and lavender have a calming effect on the mind, allowing them to completely relax both physically and mentally.

When in doubt, make sure you increase pressure slowly, and work on making long smooth motions down the body. By watching and listening carefully, you can take verbal and physical cues on comfortability levels whilst you’re massaging them.

DIY

As previously mentioned, DIY massage on the areas you can reach are very beneficial for stress relief and self-care.

To help with tired eyes, place your thumbs at the inside corner of your closed eyes and create gentle, small circles whilst moving your thumbs to the outer corners of your eye. Doing this technique for five minutes will improve circulation to the area and uplift stress. Headaches can be eased by placing your fingertips on the front of your head, and applying gentle, circular pressure as you move to the back of your head. Then, repeat the process in reverse. Ideally, you’ll want to do this for 20 minutes, and don’t forget to finish up by applying additional pressure to your temples. Massaging your neck with hooked fingers, or using the palms of your hands to massage your shoulders is something we all often do absentmindedly. Giving these areas some proper attention throughout the day will release pressure and help relieve stress.

At-home massage

Finally, it’s important to mention again that if you or the person you are massaging are suffering from any neck or back pain, seeing a qualified massage therapist will ensure the pain and symptoms are managed correctly. If you want to find out more about becoming a qualified massage therapist, Discover Massage Australia will be able to assist you with a number of courses around Australia.

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What is deep tissue massage?

Deep tissue massage is a massage technique used to treat musculoskeletal issues. A deep tissue massage therapist will apply sustained pressure using slow, deep strokes to target the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues.

Unlike other forms of massage that focus solely on relaxation, deep tissue massage is also used to treat muscle pain and stiffness. It’s for this reason that deep tissue massage is often recommended for individuals suffering from muscle pain, soreness or fatigue. The technique encourages blood flow which helps to loosen tight muscles and relax trigger points that cause knots and pulled muscles. This makes deep tissue massage great for rehabilitation and recovery from exercise or physical stress and strain.

What is sports massage?

Sports massage is a targeted approach to treating minor and chronic injuries. Sports massage therapists generally use a wide range of techniques to realign and loosen muscle fibres in individuals who experience sport-related tension. It can also be used to improve posture and condition an athlete’s body so they can perform their best.

The type of sports massage used will depend on the injury or the needs of the individual. Usually, sports massage will incorporate soft tissue massage, deep tissue massage, and whole-body massage along with physiotherapy techniques to assist in recovery and rehabilitation. Sports massage is often recommended for athletes or individuals who engage in regular physical activity and are prone to sport-related injury.

The key differences between deep tissue and sports massage

Although both techniques are similar in their focus on relieving pain and tension, the key difference is that sports massage therapy is used on athletic individuals. Where many people can benefit from deep tissue massage for a range of muscular issues, sports massage is used specifically for healing or preventing a sports-related injury.

Sports massage therapists are trained in treating injuries experienced by athletes, such as hamstring strains or shin splints. Deep tissue massage therapists can identify and treat areas of muscle weakness, but they usually aren’t treating sport-specific injuries. In this case, deep tissue massage is better for those looking to treat injuries such as back and neck strains.

When to use deep tissue or sports massage therapy

If you’re unsure whether a deep tissue massage or sports massage is best for you, this will help you figure it out. Generally, deep tissue massage can be used for relieving muscle tension, reducing stress, working knots, reducing muscle stiffness, and increasing circulation. Deep tissue massage is often administered as a full body massage, rather than focusing on a specific area of the body.

Sports massage, on the other hand, is a targeted massage approach that focuses on specific areas of the body that are in need of healing or relief. Sports massage would be better suited to an athlete or someone who engages in regular physical activity. Those who play tennis or participate in any sport that requires repetitive movements may find that sports massage can help to relieve pain in muscles and joints as well as reduce swelling or jarring. Sports massage can also be used by athletes to condition their body and aid in recovery.

Both deep tissue and sports massage use similar strokes, including kneading, circular movements, and tapping to relieve muscular pain and tension. A person may have more reason to seek out sports massage if they experience overuse injuries from physical activity. On the other hand, a person undergoing deep tissue massage may be looking for a more general relief from muscular pain and mental stress. These types of clients don’t have to participate in a certain activity, be an athlete, or have a specific injury to receive deep tissue massage.

Make massage therapy your job

A qualification in massage therapy can open doors to an exciting career in treating common injuries and assisting clients in achieving their recovery goals. Discover Massage Australia offers courses in deep tissue massage if you’re interested in learning more about massage therapy and becoming a qualified massage therapist.

The post The Difference Between Deep Tissue and Sports Massage appeared first on Discover Massage Australia.

Muscle strains, slipped discs, whiplash, arthritis and spinal issues can cause neck pain. Many of us have also experienced a stiff neck after ‘sleeping wrong’, which can often persist for a number of days. But regardless of the cause, receiving treatment for your neck pain is essential, which is where massage comes in.

5 ways that massage can help to manage neck pain

Massage is worth the cost. It’s one of the best ways to manage neck pain and the associated symptoms by relieving the area and strengthening the underlying muscles to prevent further injury. It has grown in popularity over the past few years as increasing numbers of people seek alternative therapies, whilst further research into the full-body benefits of massage has also brought massage into the spotlight.

1. Relieves existing pain

You may feel a bit of tenderness for a few days after your first couple of massages, but don’t fret; this is a signal that your muscles are healing and strengthening. The pain you may feel is similar to the soreness experienced after a gym session, as your massage therapist is also giving your muscles a workout. But with the combination of physical manipulation and mental relaxation provided by massage, your body will release endorphins to relieve your neck pain.

2. Prevents future pain

Massage therapists are specially trained in diagnosing and treating a wide range of injuries, and they can also strengthen your muscles to prevent further injury down the road. As neck pain is such a common problem, techniques such as deep tissue massage can help to build the underlying muscles in your neck, promoting faster recovery and increasing muscle tone to avoid future strain to the area.

3. Helps you to relax

Stress can contribute to causing and increasing neck pain, as stress has a physical effect on the muscles in your neck. As well as physically treating your neck pain, massage can help you to relax mentally and spiritually, helping you to reduce your levels of stress, anger and anxiety. This in turn can help to reduce the severity of your neck pain.

4. Improves flexibility

As we age, the joints and muscles in our neck become less flexible, which can interfere with activities we want and need to engage in daily. Regular, high-quality massages can help improve muscle flexibility and increase our range of movement in our neck. Retaining flexibility in your body has a number of other positive health benefits too, such as improved posture and coordination.

5. Works with your body holistically

Studies have shown that regular massage has the additional benefits of improved circulation, stimulation of the lymphatic system, and heightened alertness, which ultimately makes for improved overall quality of life. This means that incorporating regular neck massages into your routine can enhance your wellbeing as well as relieve pain.

How to find the right massage therapist for your neck pain

Finding the right massage therapist to work with is just as important as finding the right doctor or hairdresser. A qualified therapist is necessary for treating neck pain, and they may use a variety of treatment options depending on where the pain originates from.

When you get in contact with a massage therapist for a consultation, it’s a good idea to bring with you a history of any injuries you may have incurred in the past, as well as details of any surgeries, activities you undertake on a regular basis, and your general overall health status. To get the best help with your neck pain, be sure to communicate the type of pain you’re feeling (for example, dull or sharp, persistent or throbbing) and if you have any suspicions on what might have caused the injury. By being honest and transparent with your massage therapist, you’ll have a better chance of receiving the best possible care.

Other tips include asking to see your potential new therapist’s qualifications, or asking about their expertise specifically in neck pain. Be sure to alert your therapist if you’re feeling any additional pain during your treatment, as they may need to decrease pressure or focus on another area.

Using massage to help with your neck pain

Seeking out a qualified massage therapist for neck pain is important. Discover Massage Australia is committed to training qualified and talented therapists who can assist with a wide range of injuries and treatment options. If you’re looking for a qualified massage therapist, make sure they have a qualification from one of Discover Massage Australia’s great courses.

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Runners and dancers are at a high risk of developing shin splints, though anyone may be diagnosed with the condition. Changes to physical activity, such as spending longer exercising, having flat feet or working out in worn-out footwear, can also contribute to the development of shin splints. If you suffer from osteoporosis or are a smoker, your risk of shin splints is also higher.

If you’re experiencing pain, swelling or tenderness along the tibia; pain at the start of exercise which gets worse as you continue; or redness over the shin, you may be suffering from shin splints, and your next step should be to get the right treatment for it.

How sports massage can help to manage shin splints

Many people describe the pain of shin splints as an aching feeling, whilst others describe it as sharp and localised. Any sort of body pain, if left untreated, can become a bigger issue in the future, and shin splint pain can last for months, if not years, if left untreated.

Thankfully, sports massage can help with managing the pain of shin splints. By targeting muscle and tendon junctions, this style of massage can reduce the amount of time needed for recovery and helps to increase flexibility. Sports massage is designed specifically for people who exercise, and treatment is performed by qualified massage therapists who know which muscles to target for different sports and activities.

For professional athletes or exercise lovers, shin splints could have you out of action for some time without treatment. Massage helps to reduce recovery time to make sure you’re on your feet and ready to get back into exercise sooner. Massage can also help to prevent injury in the future, which is a big reason why preventative sports massages are increasing in popularity.

It’s important to know that a sports massage differs from a massage used for relaxation, and in some cases the treatment may feel uncomfortable or strenuous. This is because sports massage is used to actively strengthen tight muscles and work on inactive muscles around an injury. Sports massage may use different techniques from a variety of other massage treatments, such as remedial massage or deep tissue massage. Your massage therapist will assist you with coming up with the best treatment option and how often you need to have a massage for managing shin splints.

How to find the right sports massage therapist for your shin splints

Finding the right sports massage therapist for your shin splints is important for your ongoing training and injury prevention as an athlete. As not all massages are created equally, finding a therapist who has extensive experience and training in sports massage is crucial to ensuring you’re back on your feet and not suffering from any pain sooner.

Having a list of questions prepared for your potential new therapist is a great way to make sure you’re on the same page about treatment and expectations. A good massage therapist will be able to discuss your treatment plan options and create a plan that works for you and your shin splints. It’s important to discuss with your therapist any past injuries you may have sustained, what activities you regularly participate in, and what may have been likely to cause your shin splints.

Keeping open communication with your massage therapist is important to ensure you get the best care, and to help you decide whether you can work together to manage your injury or preventative care needs.

Using sports massage for shin splint recovery

Shin splints is an injury that should be taken seriously and be attended to by a certified massage therapist, such as those with qualifications from Discover Massage Australia. Providing high quality, industry recognised, and informative courses, Discover Massage has a wide range of courses for future therapists to study and join the ranks of the highest regarded massage therapists throughout the country. Your body deserves the best care, and Discover Massage Australia is dedicated to providing the best training for therapists to provide that care.

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