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Top Tips To Better Your Health This Summer

With summer right around the corner, there's no better time than now to take action to better your health. To help you on the right track, we've prepared a list of top tips to improve your health this summer.

Cut Back on Sugar

It should come as little-to-no surprise that sugar has been linked to illness and disease. Sugar affects nearly every system in the body, disturbing the body's normal function while promoting weight gain. Unfortunately, far too many people consume significantly more sugar that the recommended allowance set forth by the USDA. A good rule of thumb is to keep your daily sugar intake below 40 grams. Fruit sugar is okay because it's absorbed more slowly, but refined/process sugar should be closely monitored.

Cut Back on Sodium

While small amounts of sodium are perfectly fine, even beneficial, diets built around an excess amount of this nutrient can be devastating to a person's health. Too much sodium promote water retention within the body and increases blood pressure. According to the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, Americans should consume no more than 2,3000 mg per day.

Have a Massage

Why should you have a massage? If you keep up with our blog here at MassageTablesNow.com, you're probably well aware of the benefits offered by massage therapy. This centuries-old practice has been shown to improve blood flow, reduce stress, ease body aches and pains, and even speed up recovery from injuries. Furthermore, researchers say massage therapy promotes the release of hormones like endorphins, which are closely linked to the feeling of happiness.

Exercise

With the warm temperatures and sunny weather, summer is the ideal time to get outside and exercise. Whether you're trying to lose weight, build muscle, or achieve a combination thereof, exercise will help. So, how much exercise do you need to get and stay healthy? There's no easy answer to this question, as the exact amount varies depending on your gender, age, current health, and metabolism and other factors. With that said, most experts recommend getting at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise for day.

Wear Sunscreen

Planning a beach vacation this summer? If so, make sure you and your family members wear sunscreen lotion. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), approximately one in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point in their lifetime. While there’s no fool-proof way to completely prevent skin cancer, you can significantly reduce your risk by wearing a high-SPF sunscreen lotion.

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Can Massage Therapy Cure GERD?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or what's more commonly known as acid reflux, is an all-too-common condition affecting upwards of 10-20% of the entire U.S. population. It's characterized by the intrusion of stomach acid up through the esophagus, resulting in pain and discomfort. While many people who suffer from this condition mask the symptoms with medication, a more effective and permanent solution may lie in massage therapy.

Before we start, it's important to note that GERD can be caused by a number of different conditions. Any condition that allows the stomach acid to “reflux” through the esophagus is essentially a precursor to GERD. The lower esophageal sphincter acts as a valve so to speak, allowing food and beverages to travel down into the stomach but preventing them from coming back up – at least that's how it's supposed to work. There are certain conditions that may prevent the lower esophageal sphincter fom serving its intended function.

So, how can massage therapy help to treat GERD? One of the most common causes of this condition is a hiatal hernial, which occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes into the thorax via a tear or weakness in the diaphragm. When this occurs, the lower esophageal sphincter is pushed open, allowing stomach acid to travel back up. A professional massage therapist, however, can often treat hiatal hernias by manually manipulating the protruding stomach back into its original place. Once the stomach is pushed out of the thorax, the esophageal sphincter closes and the stomach acid can no longer travel back up.

One small but notable study even concluded massage therapy to be effective in the treatment of GERD symptoms.

“GERD symptoms decreased in both groups and weight increased. Pretreatment salivary cortisol levels decreased significantly over time in the massage group while increasing in the nonmassage group. Daily cortisol level also decreased in the massage group and increased in the nonmassage group, but the difference was not significant,” wrote the study's researchers.

Does this mean massage therapy will cure your GERD? There's no easy answer to this question, as each and every case is different. However, massage therapy will certainly prove beneficial in one way or another. Even if it doesn't cure your GERD, it will likely offer some relief of the pain and discomfort associated with this condition.

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Massage Therapy for PTSD

Veterans who return home after spending time on the battlefields may find relief from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from massage therapy.

According to the nonprofit organization PTSDUSA, nearly one in three troops have been diagnosed with “serious” PTSD, attesting to the growing problem of this physiological disorder. What's even more shocking, however, is that less than 40% will week help for it. Many veterans who suffer from PTSD either ignore the symptoms or attempt to treat them on their own, without the assistance of professionals. In doing so, the symptoms often persist or even worsen. But hope may be right around the corner – and from an unlikely source.

Symptoms of PTSD vary on a case-by-case basis. With that said, more than 20% of veterans diagnosed with PTSD report having anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, and hypervigilance. Whether it's minor or severe, massage therapy may ease some of the symptoms associated with PTSD. An article published by the WashingtonPost found massage therapy to be effective in treating veterans who suffer from PTSD.

So, how can massage therapy ease the symptoms of such as widespread and devastating disorder? There are several different factors contributing to the success of massage therapy when used to treat PTSD, one of which is its ability to relieve stress and anxiety. As noted above, many veterans who suffer from PTSD experience anxiety. Massage therapy works to relieve stress and anxiety in a safe, natural manner without using prescription drugs or medication.

Massage therapy is also known to promote the release of happy hormones known as endorphins. When these chemicals are released, it creates the feeling of happiness and content, easing the harsh symptoms commonly associated with PTSD.

“According to Western medicine, the symptoms of PTSD are the result of imbalances in brain chemicals triggered by emotional stress. These chemicals, including neurotransmitters such as serotonin, affect behavior, feelings and cognition,” wrote researchers at PacificCollege.edu. “Massage therapy and other bodywork such as Reiki, or Tui Na, can not only relax tensed muscles and ease the physical pain, they can trigger the body’s relaxation response, breaking the cycle of fight or flight.”

Of course, each and every case is different. While massage therapy has helped thousands of war veterans return to a normal life, results may vary. Regardless, though, it will almost certainly prove beneficial in relieving the symptoms of this all-too-common disorder.

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Massage Benefits The Body and Mind

Massage therapy has roots dating back thousands of years, yet we are still learning more about this practice and the benefits it offers. A recent study conducted by the Association of Bodywork and Massage Professional (ABMP) found that 22% of women received at least one massage in 2012. As more and more people look towards massage therapy for better health, new details begin to emerge regarding its positive effects on both the body and mind.

For starters, massage therapy improves circulation throughout the body. Poor circulation has been linked to a wide variety of illnesses and adverse conditions, including obesity, fatigue and cardiovascular disease. When the blood begins to slow, key nutrients and vitamins are unable to reach the necessary muscles, tissue and systems; thus, problems begin to arise. Massage therapy, however, can prevent these problems from occurring by stimulating blood flow throughout the body.

Of course, massage therapy is also known to lower stress levels – a benefit that we can all use in today's hectic world. How exactly is this centuries-old practice able to ward off stress and anxiety? Well, massage therapy promotes the production and release of hormones known as endorphins. These are the same hormones released when you exercise, and they are often referred to as a “runner's high.” Long story short, endorphins give you a warm and fuzzy feeling inside that naturally lowers stress levels.

If you experience muscle pains or discomfort, you should consider seeking the services of a professional massage therapist. Many clients have reported seeing a positive improvement in their muscles aches and pains after just a single session. Massage releases built-up tension while flushing toxins through the body.

Contrary to what some people may believe, you are never too old to seek massage therapy. As noted by massage therapist Cynthia Graf, some clients are 90 years of age.

"Our senior clients are up to 90 years old. Some of them are in good health, but others deal with health issues such as diabetes and neuropathy, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and heart and circulatory issues,” said Cynthia Graf, owner of MassageLuXe Fort Myers. “For these women, we take a lighter approach, incorporating lighter stretching and passive movements in conjunction with neurological stimulation (PNS) compression, kneading, light to medium stroking, and energy work."

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Massage Therapy Offers More Benefits Than You May Realize

Back Pain

According to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), lower back pain is the single leading cause of disability worldwide, with more than half of all working Americans experiencing it at some point throughout the year. While there are dozens of potential causes and “risk factors” associated with back pain, massage therapy has been proven to be a safe and effective way to relieve such pains.

Muscle Recovery

Do you lift weights or work out? If so, you'll be glad to hear that massage therapy can improve your muscle recovery times. Each time you lift weights, small tears form in the muscle fibers. This is completely normal and should cause no reason for concern, as the muscles come back bigger and stronger when they rebuild themselves. Massage therapy, however, reduces the amount of time needed for muscles to perform this repair, allowing you to get back in the gym.

Improved Blood Flow

Another benefit of massage therapy involves blood flow. When a massage therapist manipulates the muscle and soft tissue, it naturally encourages stronger, healthier blood flow. This is particularly important for people who suffer from poor circulation, at it reduces the risk of certain diseases while improving the body's ability to heal from injuries.

Lowers Stress

Of course, we can't talk about the benefits of massage therapy without mentioning its positive effect on stress levels. Stress is the body's natural reaction to what it believes is a potentially harmful situation. Also known as the flight-or-flight response, it's characterized by the release of specific hormones such as cortisol. The problem with these hormones is that it causes muscles to tense up, blood pressure to rise, and it throws the body's chemical makeup off balance. But massage therapy can help to restore the body back to working order by lowering stress levels, all without the use of drugs.

Protects Against Heart Disease

According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, taking the lives of more than half a million people each year. While there's no way to completely prevent cardiovascular disease, you can lower your risk with massage therapy. Numerous studies have shown that people who receive massages on a regular basis have a lower risk of developing heart disease when compared to people who do not receives massages.

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Relieve Arthritis Symptoms With a Massage

Do you suffer from painful arthritis? If so, you aren't alone. According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 52.5 million adults in the United States have been told by a medial professional that they have some type of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, lupus, or fibromyalgia. That's a pretty shocking statistic that attests to the growing problem of this condition. While most people resort to painkillers to mask the symptoms, a safer and more effective solution for arthritis may lie in massage therapy.

As you may already know, arthritis is classified as inflammation of the joints. There are dozens of different types of arthritis, each of which has its own unique characteristics, but they all share one common denominator: inflammation (or swelling) of the joints. Depending on the severity of the condition, it can create debilitating pain that makes it difficult, if not impossible, for the individual to move his or her affected joints.

So, how can massage therapy relieve the pain and discomfort of arthritis? You have to remember that massage therapy isn't some new-age treatment; it's been used for thousands of years (no joke) to treat a wide variety of ailments and conditions, only one of which is joint paint. It involves the manual manipulation of soft tissue surrounding the joints, helping to relieve pain and associated symptoms.

To better understand the pain-relieving benefits offered by massage therapy, you must first look at arthritis and its effect on the body. When the joints become swollen, there's greater pressure placed against the surrounding tissue and structures. Massage therapy works to relieve this pressure and assist in the reduction of swelling.

A 2007 study conducted by the American Massage Therapy Association National Convention found massage therapy to offer relief of symptoms associated with arthritis “Therapeutic massage treatments, while able to achieve qualitative muscle release in an affected joint region, can also positively affect the physiological systems of a patient with RA and help to alleviate and prolong the deteriorating effects of the disease,” wrote the study's researchers.

If you suffer from arthritis – whether minor or severe – you should schedule an appointment with a licensed massage therapist in your area. Aside from its ability to ease the symptoms of arthritis, massage therapy will also leave you feeling fresh, relaxed, and ready to tackle anything the workweek has to throw your way.

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Study: Massage May Fight Breast Cancer Fatigue

According to BreastCancer.org, approximately 1 in 8 U.S. women will develop some type of invasive breast cancer in their lifetime. While treatment options have come a long ways over the years, one of the most commonly reported symptoms is fatigue. Even after the breast cancer has been treated, many women continue to report low energy levels characterized by chronic fatigue. But there's hope on the horizon for the millions of women who currently experience or have experienced breast cancer, as a recent study suggests that massage therapy may fight its associated fatigue.

So, what does breast cancer cause fatigue? There are several different factors which play a role in patients low energy levels, one of which is the invasive treatment associated with this disease. Breast cancer is often treated with radiation and harsh chemicals that take a toll on the body, leaving patients feeling winded and fatigued. Of course, the actual cancer is also believed to cause low energy levels, as it adversely affects the body by forcing white blood cells to work overtime.

Researchers at Emory University found massage therapy to be effective at reducing fatigue in post-surgery breast cancer patients. Participants for the study included women between the ages of 18 and 65 who had already been treated with either chemotherapy, chemoprevention or radiation, and are experiencing fatigue. Participants in the 6-week study were placed into one of three groups: the first group received weekly Swedish massages; the second group received weekly light touch massage; and a control group whom received no massage.

It's important to note that the study is currently ongoing at this time, but Emory researchers are confident that will it reinforce their belief that massage therapy does in fact reduce fatigue.

As noted by Dr. Mylin Torres, massage therapy boosts the immune system, reduces anxiety, and stimulated energy.

“We already know that frequent massage can enhance the immune system and reduce anxiety, and it has been reported that massage therapy can stimulate energy, and reduce symptoms such as nausea and pain," said Mylin Torres, MD, associate professor in Emory’s Department of Radiation Oncology. "We believe that there are many positive effects to be gained by therapeutic massage and we hope to prove that, among other biological advantages, massage may diminish the incapacitation that cancer-related fatigue can cause for our patients"

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How To Create a Spa-Like Bathroom

Many homeowners underestimate the importance of creating a relaxing bath atmosphere. Even if you only spend 45 minutes to an hour in your bathroom each day, that time can be more enjoyable if you focus on transforming it into spa-style area. Don't worry if you aren't sure on how to accomplish this, as we're about to go over some simple things that any homeowner can do to help create a spa bath atmosphere in their home.

Spa Bath Decorations

While there are many different ways in which you can accomplish a spa bath atmosphere, most of them involve the use of clean, modern-looking decorations. Because of this, you should first go through your bathroom and remove any clutter, paintings or wall decorations which look dated. Remember, you want everything to look clean and modern, not old. Some of the bathroom decorations you may want to add are plants, glass vases filled with stones and plants.

Flooring For a Spa Bath

If your bathroom still has linoleum or some other type of cheap flooring, you'll want to replace it with a more stylish and functional flooring. Some of the different types of bathroom flooring options you'll have to choose from are porcelain, natural stone, ceramic and glass tile. When choosing a flooring option, consider how it matches to the rest of the décor in your bathroom. Obviously you don't want to choose porcelain tile if your shower has a natural stone bottom.

Choose an Elegant Shower Door

Something that's oftentimes overlooked is the appearance of a shower door. Sure, a plastic shower door will repel water and keep it off of your bathroom floor, but it looks tacky and cheap. In order to create the ultimate spa bath atmosphere, you'll have to replace your plastic shower door with a more elegant alternative. One of my personal favorites are frameless glass shower doors. When properly installed, they'll create an unmatched sophisticated look that can't be achieved with any other type of door.

Another benefit you'll notice with glass shower doors is their ease of cleaning. Unlike traditional doors, there's less cracks and crevasses for mildew colonies to thrive in. Cleaning a glass shower door is as simple as spraying it with a solution of 1 parts bleach, 9 parts water and wiping it down with a towel.

Add a Towel Warmer

You can have the same spa luxury of warm towels when you immediately step out of the shower by installing a towel warmer in your home's bathroom. These are free-standing electric devices have coils for placing your towels on. Before you shower, hang your towel over the coils to warm them up. There's nothing quite like the feeling of a warm towel on your body when you step out of the shower.

These are just a few things homeowners can do to help transform their bath into a spa atmosphere. Be sure to keep in mind both the look and functionality of any modifications you make. After all, the perfect spa bath should create the most relaxing and comfortable environment as possible.

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Complications of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins can do more than just affect how you feel about your appearance, they can cause serious medical conditions.

Varicose veins are one of the most widespread types of venous disease with millions of people, young and old, suffering from it. At the first sign of varicose veins, most people feel their self-esteem drop as they try to cover them up with extra layers of clothing. To make matters worse, varicose veins can cause serious health issues if not addressed, such as the development of ulcers. Thankfully, there are varicose vein treatment options  available.

Most people only associate varicose veins as being only a cosmetic issue with no serious health concern. Unfortunately, the development of ulcers is an all-too serious issue that can threaten your life. In fact, it's estimated that 70 to 90% of all chronic wounds are due to venous ulcers.

A venous ulcer occurs when one or more of the veins, either superficial or deep, stops working properly. Oftentimes the valve in the vein will stop working and allow blood to travel the wrong way. Once the valve stops, the blood begins to pool and eventually turns into a sore. These sores wont heal themselves without proper treatment from an experienced doctor.

If the varicose veins are treated early, the likelihood of ulcers developing is slim to none. Although, the majority of patients wait until the painful sores have developed before seeking treatment. Look for the signs of ulcer development, such as painful varicose veins or redness and swelling of the legs. Early detection and treatment are key to having a successful outcome with your venous ulcers. Once you see the first sign that an ulcer is developing, seek a qualified doctor immediately. 

There are plenty of varicose vein treatment options available, including laser, scherotherapy, surgical procedures and many other treatment options. Before choosing one, research the advantages and disadvantages of each with your doctor. Together, choose the one with the highest chance for success with minimal risk of complications.

Developing ulcers from varicose veins is a serious problem that can and will threaten your health. Be aware of the early symptoms associated with venous ulcers and contact your doctor as soon as you notice them. If you wait too long, the ulcers can lead to life-threatening infections. If caught early, though, you can treat it quickly and easily through one of the many treatment options available.

Furthermore, however, massage therapy may help to relieve varicose veins and other forms of vein disease. The manual manipulation of the soft tissue surrounding the affected vein may relieve pressure and promote greater bloodflow.

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The Surprising Health Benefits of Massage

Most people seek massage therapy for its stress-reducing effects. Whether it’s job security, financial woes, relationship problems, or a combination of all the above, everyone will experience emotional stress at some point in their life. Massage therapy works to relieve stress and anxiety, allowing the client to relax and feel more comfortable. However, the centuries-old practice of massage can also offer some physical health benefits as well.

You might be surprised to learn that massage therapy promotes blood flow throughout the body. In 2002, 58-year-old Bob Cook was diagnosed with a circulation disorder called cardiac sarcoidosis, which causes clusters of white blood cells to bunch up and attack foreign substances. Cook’s doctor advised him to seek massage therapy as an alternative form of treatment, and much to his surprise, it worked. “It really helped the circulation to my fingers, toes and legs. I kept with it because I saw some pretty significant benefits,” said Cook.

Whether it’s a light or deep-tissue massage, this practice promotes greater blood flow throughout the body. Massage encourages blood to flow more freely, preventing buildups and blockages within the arteries and veins. Several studies have even shown the practice to reduce the risk of heart disease. And with heart disease topping the list of being the leading cause of death in the U.S., this alone should be reason enough to seek massage therapy on a regular basis.

But the health benefits of massage therapy don’t end there. Massage is believed to improve the immune system’s function. People who receive massages on a regular basis are generally less likely to succumb to illness. This doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s a fool-proof way to prevent illness, but massage can give your immune system a helping hand. it’s unknown how exactly massage is able to improve the function of the immune system, but the general consensus in the medical community is that it does work.

If you’re an athlete, bodybuilder, or just someone who stays physically active, you’ll reap the benefits of faster recovery times by engaging in massage therapy. When you lift weights at the gym or perform other strength training exercises, small tears develop in the fibers of your muscles. This is actually a good thing, as the muscle fibers grow back stronger and bigger than before. Massage therapy speeds up this regrowth process, allowing you  to get back in the gym in less time.

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5 Tips For Managing Dry Skin

Whether you're a man, woman, young or old, you've probably experienced dry skin before. Your skin may feel rough and scaly at first, and if left untreated, it may even crack open. But dry skin doesn't have to impact your quality of life, nor should it force you to wear additional layers to cover up your body. Check out the following tips on how to manage dry skin.

Use a Humidifier

Installing a dehumidifier in your home or workplace can help to ward off dry skin. When we expose our bodies to dry air over a prolonged length of time, it can take a toll on our skin, extracting valuable moisture from it. To prevent this from occurring, maintain a 30-40% relative humidity (RH) in your home and workplace by using a humidifier. These otherwise simple devices will monitor levels of airborne moisture vapor, releasing additional moisture when needed.

Drink More Water

Did you know that 2 out 3 adults in the U.S. go throughout the day in a constant state of mild dehydration? Being that our bodies are comprised mostly of water, it should come as no surprise that H20 plays a key role in skin health. A good rule  of thumb is to drink a minimum of eight, 8-ounce glasses of water per day.

Daily Moisturizing Cream

Of course, you should also get into the habit of using a daily moisturizing cream or lotion. Choose a product that consists of all-natural ingredients (e.g. aloe vera, cocoa butter, etc.) and apply once a day, preferably in the morning after your shower. If a particular part of your body is chronically dryer than the rest, you may want to double-up on the moisturizing cream, applying it twice daily instead of just once.

Sun Protection

Don't underestimate the impact sun exposure has on your skin. The sun's ultraviolet A/B rays will penetrate through the skin, depleting it of valuable moisture and nutrients. While some sun exposure is beneficial (it provides vitamin D), too much can lead to wrinkles, fine lines, early aging, and even increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer.

Eat More Fruit

How can fruit lead to healthier, less-dry skin? Among other things, fruit is loaded with antioxidants. These antioxidants work to neutralize harmful chemicals known as free radicals, which is left unchecked, can wreck havoc on otherwise healthy skin cells.

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Suffering From a Trapped Nerve? Try a Massage.

Do you experience tingling and/or painful sensation originating from the back of your neck? If so, you could be suffering from a condition known as a pinched nerve. As the name suggests, a pinched nerve occurs when compression or force is exerted on a nerve, restricting its ability to send and receive neurological signals. But the good news is that a professional massage therapist may offer relief of this condition through a serious of manual manipulations.

Symptoms of a Trapped Nerve

Symptoms of a trapped nerve can range from a mild, barely noticeable tingling sensation to excruciating and debilitating pain. Many people who suffer from this condition mistake it for back pain, as it can travel down through the neck and spine. It left untreated, the symptoms typically become progressively worse, which is why it's important to take immediate action at the first sign of a trapped nerve.

Causes of a Trapped Nerve

You might be wondering what causes a nerve to become trapped. While there are many known causes and “risk factors,” herniated spinal discs often top the list. The vertebrae in our spines are separated by soft fluid-filled discs which act as shock absorbers. Over time, however, it's not uncommon for one or more of these discs to protrude (AKA herniate) outwards, at which point it may compress against a nerve.

Direct physical trauma may also cause a nerve to become trapped. This is particularly true in automobile accidents where the individual thrusts forward. The sheer force of impact combined with the whiplash may cut off the nerve, triggering symptoms of a trapped nerve.

Treating a Trapped Nerve With Massage Therapy

Professional massage therapists can often relieve the pain and discomfort of a trapped nerve in the neck. They are fully trained and experienced in the process of manual manipulating soft tissue and muscle. So if there's tissue or muscle compressing against the nerve, a massage therapist may be able to treat the condition by manipulating it away from the nerve.

Here are some other tips to better manage a trapped nerve:

Place a hot/cold compress on the affected area.

Perform a light stretching exercise daily to improve flexibility and hopefully relieve compression.

Seek a deep-tissue massage from a professional massage therapist.

Take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to relieve inflammation.

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Benefits of a Single-Session Massage

Some people assume that massage therapy is only beneficial if you have it done on a regular basis. And given today's hectic, fast-paced world, many people don't have the time to visit a massage therapist's office every week to receive a massage. While there are plenty of physical and mental benefits associated with long-term use of massage therapy, there are also benefits associated with single sessions, which we're going to discuss in this blog post.

Boosts The Immune System

The immune system plays a key role in maintaining our health and well-being. When the immune system suffers, our bodies are left vulnerable to disease and illness. Thankfully, you can boost your immune system with just a single massage therapy session. One recent study involving several hundred participants between the ages of 18-45 found Swedish Massage to be the most effective in boosting the immune system (source).

"Preliminary data suggest that a single session of Swedish Massage Therapy produces measurable biologic effects. If replicated, these findings may have implications for managing inflammatory and autoimmune conditions," wrote the study's researchers.

Reduces Bodily Inflammation

Just a single massage therapy session may also reduce bodily inflammation. Even if you aren't visible sick or ill, you may still experience inflammation. Over time, this can increase your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, and other adverse health conditions. Massage therapy, however, works to counteract the effects of inflammation by calming the body and mind.

Pain Relief

Of course, we can't talk about the benefits of single session massage therapy without mentioning pain relief. Whether the pain is in your neck, back, torso, of your entire body, massage therapy will help. You might be wondering how exactly it's able to relieve pain. Well, it all goes back to the production of endorphines and other hormones/chemicals that are released when you receive a massage. As you receive a massage, your body produces certain chemicals and hormones, many of which are naturally pain and stress relievers.

Stress Relief

It should come as no surprise that massage therapy yields stress relief. When you get home from a long day at work and feel stressed and/or anxious, perhaps you should try a massage. It's a safe, drug-free way to relieve stress -- and it only takes a single session.

Photo credit: borediq

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What Are Varicose Veins?

It's estimated that around a quarter of the worlds population suffer from varicose veins. Also known as spider veins, these are blood-carrying veins which become swollen with stagnant blood underneath the surface of the skin. The result is large, blue veins that can greatly affect ones self esteem and potentially cause more serious medical issues if left untreated. Here, we'll take a look at some of the treatment options for those suffering from varicose veins.

There are many different factors which can contribute to an individual developing varicose veins. One of the most common is hereditary genetics. If your grandma, mother or someone else in your immediate family suffers from this condition, then you'll have a greater risk at developing them as well. Age is also another contributing factor for varicose veins. As we grow older, the veins and arteries in our bodies become weak and may not function as they should.

Some people brush off varicose veins as only a cosmetic problem that doesn't cause any serious health concerns, but this isn't always the case. If left untreated, varicose veins may become progressively worse and cause more than just self-esteem issues. At first, you may only notice raised skin where the veins are, but over time, pain, excessive swelling and ulcers can develop. When you first notice signs of varicose veins, you should start looking at what some of your available treatment options are.

Varicose veins are best treated, and prevented, through proper exercise and physical activity. Doing so allows the blood to flow through your veins and arteries, preventing it from building up and developing varicose veins. If you sit and work at a desk or in front of a computer all day, getting the right amount of exercise might be difficult. However, it's crucial that you get up once an hour and spend a couple minutes stretching to allow the blood to flow.

If exercise isn't cutting it for you, there are many varicose vein treatment options available. Before choosing the surgical route, you should try compression stockings to treat your condition. These are a special type of hosiery which are intended to prevent the blood from pooling inside the arteries when worn. While compression stockings may alleviate some of the pain, swelling and inflammation caused from varicose veins, they usually wont eliminate the problem.

Blood thinners are oftentimes prescribed to individuals suffering from varicose veins. When the blood thinner, it has a greater chance of passing through the veins without becoming stuck in one location. Usually, blood thinners go hand-in-hand with another treatment option.

The most effective form of treatment will come from the advice of an experienced doctor. Let your doctor take a look at your vein condition and offer suggestions and advice on which treatment path to take. Sclerotherapy is a commonly recommended treatment option which involves injecting the veins with a unique solutions that causes the veins to swell, allowing blood to freely pass through. If you're condition is severe enough, or if you have painful varicose veins, the doctor may recommend undergoing a surgical procedure to fix the valves in your veins.

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Can Massage Therapy Relieve Runner's Knee Pain?

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), or what's more commonly referred to as runner's knee, is a painful condition characterized by excessive stress and pressure placed on the kneecap (patella). It receives its namesake from the high percentage of runners of whom it affects. Whether you're an avid marathon runner, or someone who enjoys an occasional jog around the neighborhood, you should familiarize yourself with the causes, symptoms and treatment options for runner's knee.

Symptoms of Runner's Knee

Like most overexertion injuries and conditions, symptoms of runner's knee will vary from person to person. One person may experience sharp, debilitating pain that prevents him or her from walking, whereas another person may experience light swelling and discomfort. With that said, the most common symptoms of runner's knee include tenderness behind the patella, visible swelling/inflammation, and pain when pressure is placed on the affected knee.

According to a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, women are up to twice as likely to develop runner's knee than their male counterparts. This is due to the fact that women have wider hips, which results in a jogging and running angle that places greater pressure on the patella.

Limit Mileage Increases

Runner's World suggests limiting your weekly mileage increase to no more than 10% to reduce the risk of runner's knee. Constantly pushing your body beyond its physical limits will take its toll on your health, straining muscles, ligaments and bones, while also placing you at risk for a variety of adverse conditions like runner's knee.

RICE

A good rule of thumb when treating runner's knee is to follow RICE -- rest, ice, compression and elevation. If you believe you are suffering from runner's knee, elevated the affected knee and place an ice pack on it. This will discourage blood flow to the region, which should further minimize the swelling and pain.

Of course, you'll want to use caution to ensure the ice pack isn't left on your knee for an extended period of time. Try to get into the habit of leaving it on your knee for 10 minutes and then off your knee for 10 minutes; rinse and repeat. This will maximize the benefits of RICE without placing your skin at risk for ice burn (yes, ice can burn the skin).

Massage Therapy For Runner's Knee

Depending on the severity of your condition, a professional massage therapist may be able to offer relief of runner's knee. He or she will perform a manual manipulation on the soft tissue surrounding the affected knee to knead out knots and stress.