Arbor Wellness - Understanding Massage Therapy

Understanding Massage Therapy
Earl Wenk ATC CSCS NCTMB

Introduction
Massage can provide many benefits, such as improved flexibility, decreased pain or spasm, and improved circulation. But many people have never experienced a massage; so understanding the details and finding the right massage therapist for you can be a daunting task.

In this article, I hope to provide you with a basic understanding of some common types of massage, how to find a qualified therapist, and explain what to expect during your massage session.

What are some common types of massage?
There are far too many types of massage to list here, so I have listed 5 types that I feel are most beneficial to runners and athletes.

Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is the style most people think of when they imagine a massage. Generally regarded as the most common form of massage, Swedish massage involves a combination of five basic strokes and concentrates on the muscles and connective tissues of the body for improved circulation, relaxation, pain relief, and overall health maintenance and well being.

Myofascial Therapy
Therapists use myofascial therapy to ease pressure in the fibrous bands of connective tissue, or fascia that enclose muscles throughout the body. Sheaths of this dense and elastic connective tissue weave about blood vessels, bones, and organs as well, forming an intricate, 3-D web that supports your organs and joints from head to toe and acts as the body's shock absorber.

Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT)
This therapy is also known as trigger-point therapy in that concentrated finger pressure is applied to "trigger points" to alleviate muscular pain.

Sports Massage
Sports massage therapies are both preventative and therapeutic, and used for athletes during warm ups, training and competition to treat and/or aid in the prevention of injuries; help improve flexibility, range of motion, and performance; and aid in mental clarity.

Orthopedic Massage
Orthopedic Massage combines several massage techniques to treat pain and soft-tissue injury. It focuses heavily on injury assessment and rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of selecting the appropriate modality to treat the injury. Orthopedic massage is often used in conjunction with sports massage protocols.

Who is the right therapist for me?
Finding the right therapist includes finding someone with strong qualifications and skills, as well as someone with a personality you enjoy. The first step is to know what you want to accomplish. Do you want to reduce muscular pain, increase flexibility, or get rid of chronic tightness in your low back? Once you identify your primary issue, look for the types of massage that will address your issue.

When looking for a therapist, you should look for ones who are nationally certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork. This is a nation-wide certification exam that demonstrates a level of competency.

Above all, you need to be comfortable with your decision, don't hesitate to try different therapists until you are satisfied.

How do I find a massage therapist?
So now you know what to look for, but where should you look? Finding a qualified massage therapist can be as easy or thorough as you want it to be. Some common avenues are the Yellow Pages, Internet, or personal referrals.

First, the yellow pages will provide a list of many therapists and clinics. A few of these listings will provide a brief list of the therapist's specialties. A web search will provide a number of therapists, but many do not have a web site or listing, so you may miss someone qualified and close to you.

The best ways I can recommend are to look in publications focused on your activities, or ask your friends/acquaintances for referrals to therapists they know (what is better than hearing a review from someone you trust?).

Once you identify therapists, do not be afraid to call them and ask about their backgrounds, qualifications, philosophies, and specialties.

A final recommendation, if you do not want to do an extensive search, a clinic may be your best option. The main benefit of a clinic is it will employ therapists with diverse backgrounds.

What to ask over the phone
Once you have identified a few potential therapists, it is time to contact them. I recommend you ask them about the following:

Credentials: What is their educational background?
Certification: Are they certified? What specialty certifications do they have? What do these certifications mean?
What experience do they have working with my special situation? (ex: runners, TMJ pain, carpal tunnel syndrome)

In general, therapists are looking to build a strong sense of trust with their clients. They should be very happy to talk with you prior to scheduling an appointment.

A Typical Session
Your massage therapist will begin by asking you to fill out a health questionnaire. Then, they will ask you some questions regarding your health and what benefits you are looking for in the massage session.

Finally, they will explain to you how to position yourself on the table, and excuse themselves from the room so you may undress and get under the sheet on the treatment table.

You may choose to disrobe to whatever level you are comfortable. I tell my clients to leave their underwear on. During a typical session, you will be well covered with a sheet (and blankets in the winter). The therapist will skillfully uncover only the body parts being worked on at the moment. If you are receiving specific treatment to your legs, you may bring a pair of shorts to wear, as this will provide enough exposure for the therapist to do their work.

They will knock in 3-5 minutes, giving you ample time to get comfortable on the table. Once they return, they will make sure you are properly supported by cushions and begin the session.

For most types of massage, the therapist will utilize a massage oil or lotion, to allow their hands to glide over the skin. They will begin the work with light pressure, and move to deeper pressure, as your body becomes accustomed to the work.

Earl Wenk, ATC CSCS NCTMB
Earl is a certified athletic trainer, nationally certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork and a certified strength and conditioning specialist. He is a partner in Arbor Wellness and has over 15 years experience as an athletic trainer.