Massage has been used for centuries to help heal many parts of the body. The skeletal system is affected by several diseases that benefit from massage. There are certain types of massage that are more appropriate than others to treat the skeletal system because of the techniques involved. However, be aware of cautions that may indicate that massage is not appropriate in all situations. Massage may be practiced at home or by a professional massage therapist.
Massage
According to Robert Noah Calvert in "The History of Massage," massage was known as "rubbing" in ancient Greece. Hippocrates, a fifth century B.C. physician, wrote about the many techniques and benefits of rubbing.
Skeletal System
The skeletal system has a number of functions. It supports, protects and helps to move the body. In addition, it acts as a storage unit for important minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, which help to ensure the muscles and other parts of the body are working correctly. The skeletal system is also responsible for the production of blood in the red bone marrow of long bones.
Diseases
The skeletal system is affected by several diseases. Diseases such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and rheumatism are common diseases of the skeletal system that may benefit from massage. However, use only light massage with osteoporosis to avoid accidental bone breakage. Massage also benefits other pain and stiffness in the joints.
Benefits
Massage benefits the skeletal system in a number of ways. Denise Whichello Brown writes in "Teach Yourself Massage" that massage helps to strengthen the skeletal system. Brown also writes in "A Complete Guide to Massage" that massage increases the nutrition and growth of bones by improving blood and lymph circulation in the muscles, decreases pain and stiffness in the joints and improves mobility. Massage also improves posture because it strengthens tissues and relaxes muscles. Shirley and Len Price write in "Aromatherapy for Health Professionals" that massage helps sprains and fractures heal more quickly and easily.
Types
There are many types of massage. However, the most appropriate types of massage for diseases of the skeletal system are aromatherapy massage, deep tissue massage and sports massage. For example, aromatherapy massage is appropriate for osteoporosis because it is a gentle massage and the additional use of aromatherapy oils helps to alleviate pain. Treat muscular aches and pains incurred through a sports injury with a sports massage that eases muscle tension and restores musculo-skeletal balance. Deep tissue massage helps to relieve pain deep in the muscles.
Cautions
There are some cautions to remember for massage. Price and Price caution against massage if you have an infection, if you are taking certain types of medication, if you have severe heart conditions or if you have recent fractures and scars. In addition, different people with certain diseases may react differently to massage. A professional massage therapist will be able to advise you on the feasibility of a massage for particular skeletal system diseases.
References
- "The History of Massage"; Robert Noah Calvert; 2002
- "Teach Yourself Massage"; Denise Whichello Brown; 1996
- "A Complete Guide to Massage"; Denise Whichello Brown; 2003
- "Aromatherapy for Health Professionals"; Shirley Price, Len Price; 2002
Member Comments