Whether on a field performing with your teammates, rehearsing dance steps in front of the mirror or running along a country road, taking part in any sports can be exhilarating and rewarding. It may be for the love of health, a drive to compete, or simply to finish a distance race, anyone who is active in sports strives to care for their body. Many people seek out a regular massage to help them perform at their best and reach their personal goals.
Maintaining your fit body
Generally, many sports and fitness enthusiasts rely on regular massage an a part of their health maintenance routine. The reason for this is because an area of chronic tension can impair performance and even lead to an injury when stressed. Assisted stretching, kneading and other massage techniques can loosen areas of chronic tension and help relieve new areas of tension before becoming chronic.
As a Massage Therapist, I will work related muscle groups, such as those in the upper back and chest. This will relieve that stress which may impair your body’s alignment and helps muscles throughout your body to work more efficiently together.
During a massage it is also a great time for you to relax and take the time to notice areas in your body that are both tight and painful. Developing the awareness of how your body feels and is moving can help you adjust or change your fitness routine to avoid future injury.
Massage after a strenuous workout
Often when vigorous exercise has left your muscles feeling fatigued, stiff and sore, massage can be a welcomed help and relief. What massage will do is stretch and lengthen shortened muscles and reduce spasms. The gentle kneading will improve circulation and in return speeds up the removal of waste products that can make you sore, while also bringing the oxygen and nutrients which are needed for your muscles to rejuvenate. A deeply relaxing massage will also promote restful sleep, allowing the muscle tissue time to repair naturally.
Pre-event Massage
Massage can help you prepare for a competitive event. A massage before an event is brief, invigoration and usually only fifteen to twenty minutes long. It is given within an hour before your event, right through the clothing that you are wearing. As your therapist I will rock and jostle your arms and legs, along with the use of compression – firm and repetitive palm pressure into the belly of the muscles. These strokes will naturally warm the muscles while energize. Several Athletes use this time to focus and visualize their success of the coming event.
Post-event Massage
After the event and you have cooled down, you will fine that a post event massage will be both calming and relaxing. During this massage, use the time to focus on the release of any pain to ease soreness while reducing inflammation. Again, as your therapist, I will use a slow compression stroke to bring the blood and oxygen to tense areas and to help flush out toxins which have built up during the heavy muscle use. I will lightly jostle and shake your arms and legs, along with helping you to stretch your muscles. Usually you can expect your post –event massage to last from 15 to 20 minutes. Again this massage is also given through you clothing.
Massage for Sports Injuries
To anyone who loves to be active, an injury is more than just pain and frustration. When your passion is your sport, and your sport is your passion, any injury can be, not just physically painful, but also emotionally devastating.
There are a variety of massage modalities that can help with injuries such as tendinitis, muscle strains and ligament sprains. Because massage increases circulation, it can also reduce swelling and increase the supply of nutrients needed for healing.
Additionally, your body often repairs injuries with scar tissue consisting of tightly matted fibers referred to as collagen. These collagen fibers tear and tear again easily, making the healing process difficult, at the least, often causing your movement to be painful or restricted. The appropriate massage modality or techniques can help to limit scar tissue formation in the new injuries, while also reducing and making the tissue more pliable, around the old injury. The end result will be that your muscles will move more freely and with less pain.
There may be some discomfort experienced at first with massage, in the area of an injury or pain, but the sensation should lessen after a few minutes. It is always a good practice to let me, the therapist, know if you are having any discomfort during your session. I will always work within your comfort level by using less pressure or changing to a different modality.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Fibromyalgia
Hello —
If you or a loved one has fibromyalgia, a major concern is finding some relief. Hopefully, the information in this newsletter will provide you with knowledge about some of the physiological challenges you face — and a proven therapy that can help.
The medical community has yet to learn enough about the condition to offer a cure and currently aims to manage the symptoms and alleviate some of the pain. Until a greater understanding of this syndrome is achieved, you can focus on those remedies that have been shown to bring relief.
If you have fibromyalgia, massage therapy should be a routine part of your health program. As a therapist, I’ve seen first-hand how much comfort those regular massage sessions can bring. The accompanying article will explain to you a bit of why massage helps to reduce the aches and pains associated with fibromyalgia.
My goal is helping others to have a healthier, more comfortable life. I look forward to working with you to improve your condition. Schedule an appointment today!
Fibromyalgia and Massage
Those who suffer from the debilitating effects of fibromyalgia face a constant challenge — how can the painful symptoms be minimized? With an estimated 3 to 6 million fibromyalgia sufferers in the United States today, there is a steadily growing segment of our population that is seeking relief. Many sufferers have lived with the disease for over 7 years before a diagnosis was made.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, you know that one of the biggest challenges is reducing the incessant aches that settle in the muscles, tendons and joints throughout the body. Just getting a good night’s sleep becomes a daily dilemma.
Understanding the physiological effects of fibromyalgia on the body will help you to appreciate why massage therapy can be an effective treatment. A major complaint of fibromyalgia sufferers is the chronic aching primarily associated with the muscles. It is believed that the stress related with the condition contributes to the increased tension in the muscles that in turn leads to this persistent pain.
Whenever a muscle is used — whether it is for work or from worry — it increases its tone (the degree of firmness or tension in the tissue). If this increased tone is sustained, it places certain demands on the muscle. When the muscle is held in this tensed position, it increases its need for oxygen, and subsequently, a need for more blood flow. In its current state, the muscle may not be capable of receiving this increased oxygen, which then manifests as aches and pain.
Additionally, the muscle may now have a much harder time disposing of its cellular wastes, which can exacerbate the painful condition. This is the beginning of a cycle of pain — increased muscular tension — pain that makes living with fibromyalgia such a challenge.
Since the muscles are now in a near constant state of increased tone, they begin to adapt to this new condition by changing structurally, developing areas of fibrous tissue. This leads to the affected muscles pulling on the tendons — the tough tissue that joins the muscle to the bone. The tendons now experience this same cycle of lack of oxygen, pain and change in structure as the muscles.
This constant condition of increased tone in the muscles burns a great amount of energy which helps to explain the steady fatigue that plagues most fibromyalgia sufferers.
Muscles in the body have opposing muscles. For example, one set of muscles contracts to bend your arm and an opposing set of muscles contracts to return it to a straight position. When certain muscles begin to undergo the changes described above, it can have an adverse effect on their opposing muscle groups. While one muscle stays tense, the opposite muscle will grow weak, causing muscular imbalances throughout the body. These imbalances can contribute to a lack of coordination and uneven wear and tear on the joints.
You can see how these debilitating cycles can affect a fibromyalgia sufferer and worsen over time. Now, take a look at how regular massage sessions can help to bring relief.
When you receive a massage, it helps your body to function more optimally. For instance, those tense muscles are helped to relax and for a time return to a more normal state. Muscular release is the first step towards calming the mind and can help to reduce the body’s wasting of energy.
The flowing strokes of massage help to increase circulation that in turn carries oxygen and nutrients throughout your system and can aid in the removal of cellular waste and toxins.
Massage tends to bring a body into a more balanced, natural state. If you have fibromyalgia, this equates to a period of welcome relief.
What about results?
A study conducted by the Touch Research Institute, Miami School of Medicine, in 1994 showed fibromyalgia responds well to massage. A portion of the study group received 30 minute massages twice a week for five weeks. The rheumatologists that evaluated the results determined that only the group receiving regular massage experienced decreases in pain, fatigue, stiffness and improvements in the quality of sleep.
If you, a loved one, or an acquaintance have fibromyalgia, you should schedule a massage session (or better still, a series of sessions) to see for yourself how it can help. If you have any questions, please feel free to call; I am here to help you!
Reference: Fibromyalgia & Muscle Pain, Leon Chaitow N.D., D.O. © 1998
_____ _____ _____ _____ _____
Conditions and symptoms associated with fibromyalgia
Below are some of the common symptoms reported by fibromyalgia sufferers. (* Note that depression is considered a consequence of the fibromyalgia.)
Balance problems
Chronic fatigue
Cold extremities
Depression
Frequent urination
Headaches
Impaired memory
Muscle aches
Muscle twitching
Sleep disorder
The content of this newsletter is not intended to replace professional medical advice. If you’re ill, please consult your physician.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Ever Feel Stressed Out?
Of all the modern-day ailments that seem to affect us, none is more pervasive than stress. Everywhere you turn, there are factors lurking to redirect you from your peaceful pursuit of happiness and lock you in the clutches of “stress.”
What exactly is stress—and what more insidious effects does it cause? The dictionary defines stress as “great pressure or force; strain.” In today’s world, we think of stress as the result of too much pressure laid upon us by life, causing mental worry or anguish. This, in turn, manifests itself in tight neck and shoulders, headaches, nervous stomach, etc. But these physical and mental conditions are really only the beginning.
Studies show that stressful situations can develop into more threatening health conditions. For instance:
A sudden or unexpected stressor can activate your adrenal glands, which sends adrenaline and other hormones into your bloodstream. This brings about an increase in your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and blood flow to the muscles. This physical response was appropriate generations ago when it was needed for our very survival, but today much of our stress is emotional. With the high number of mental stress incidents that we can experience each day, these repetitive physical responses can begin to wear out all of the body’s intricate systems.
When your stress is chronic, your body releases cortisol, a hormone designed to help the body handle a period of prolonged physical stress. This hormone is hard for the body to metabolize and consequently can lead to an immune system that becomes heavily suppressed, a damaged cardiovascular system, and a worn out endocrine system (the system responsible for handling stressful
conditions).
According to Paul J. Rosch, M.D., president of the American Institute of Stress, in Yonkers, N.Y., the following are some of the common stress symptoms:
^ Frequent headaches, jaw clenching, or teeth grinding
^ Neckache, back pain, or muscle spasms
^ Frequent colds and infections
^ Rashes, itching, hives or unexplained allergy attacks
^ Chest pain, palpitations, or rapid pulse
^ Excess anxiety, worry, guilt or nervousness
^ Depression or frequent mood swings
^ Insomnia or nightmares
^ Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, confusion
^ Significant weight gain or loss without diet change
^ Nervous habits such as fidgeting
^ Constant tiredness, weakness, or fatigue
Regular massage is the ideal remedy for a stressful life. You first experience the relief from massage’s soothing movements that can loosen tense muscles, but there are so many more benefits.
Massage can open the lines of communication throughout your body. For instance, your blood and lymph circulation is increased, which helps all parts of your body to receive essential nutrients, dispose of waste products, and defend against disease.
Stress may take its greatest toll on the nervous system. Massage can address the imbalances that stress causes in your body by stimulating the sensory receptors that interconnect and harmonize all areas of your body, bringing it back into proper balance. This brings about that sense of well-being you experience that goes far beyond the release of tense muscles.
Studies from the Touch Research Institute in Miami indicate that stress hormones consistently fall after massage, no matter what the age of the client. Workers receiving massages showed brain waves that reflect greater mental alertness, and their feelings of job stress were markedly reduced. Nighttime sleep patterns also improved. Tiffany Field, director of TRI, summarizes: “People think massage is just running hands over the surface of the body. But in stimulating the skin, we’re showing you’re overhauling the nervous system.”
Between massages, try to lessen stress in your life by avoiding its causes. Try to identify what gets you stressed. Is it necessary to be affected by the situation? Can you alter the situation so it’s no longer stressful to you?
Realize that in most cases you have to agree that something is stressful to you before it can affect you adversely. Are you actually creating the stress yourself.
Let me help redirect you from your stress and back to your peaceful pursuit of happiness. By adding a monthly massage into your schedule, you are taking that step towards caring for yourself and becoming just a little less stressed.
Make that appointment today and I'll help you to start living with less stress by helping you relieve those muscles that have gotten tight, over worked, knotted due to the daily stress that we put ourselves through.
See you then!
It's time to take time for yourself.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Massage for Body and Soul
Nothing beats feeling your best. When everything is running smoothly and your energy is high, you’re ready to enjoy all the good things in life.
The downside to feeling good is it’s easy to take your good health for granted. When nothing is bothering you, it’s easier to ignore doing the things that keep you healthy. A common comparison made in the health field is taking care of your car—and for good reason. Many people are more aware of the need to maintain a regular schedule for tune-ups and oil changes than they are for their own bodies. Obviously, there’s no comparison between the importance of your health and well-being and that of your car. We expect to “trade up” and replace several vehicles during our driving years—but your body is by far the most important “vehicle” you have!
It may be that we associate the need for personal healthcare with illness rather than with the prevention of poor health—or that the auto industry has trained us to follow specific maintenance schedules. After all, a car is a fairly simple mechanical device compared to the human body.
Your maintenance plan for your body includes several parts that are best addressed daily, such as which fuel you put in your tank, how much wear and tear you subject yourself to, and all the other choices you make that affect the way you feel tomorrow and in the future.
If you think of your massage sessions as your body’s periodic tune-ups, you may ask how they can help you to keep cruising down the highway of life.
The underlying reason that makes regular massage so important to your overall health is this: Your body is constantly changing, and massage contributes to the positive aspects of these many changes. In other words, a major factor in maintaining good health is ensuring all of the communication systems of the body are operating properly and everything is kept moving. It’s very hard to imagine the millions of processes that are taking place every day within your body. Each of these minute actions contributes to the quality of your health and well-being. Since each system depends on the others, helping your body to keep things flowing properly greatly benefits your overall condition.
Anyone who’s received several massages is probably most aware of the reduction in tension and muscle stiffness. While massage is working out those noticeable kinks, it’s also contributing to more subtle areas of concern, like promoting detoxification and encouraging your body’s regenerative and cleansing capabilities, as well as boosting your immune function. These benefits are the ones you notice in increased energy, an enhanced sense of well-being, etc.
So, make the most of your most-prized vehicle (your body) by keeping it in tune with your regular massage sessions!
© 2006 Massage Marketing. Used with permission. All rights reserved.
***** ***** ***** *****
Depressed? Take Action!
“Doing even a little something to make yourself happy could bring you the real thing, say psychologists at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. They asked 50 students to record their moods during various activities. Almost any kind of outgoing behavior— talking to someone attractive or even just singing aloud—acted as an instant antidepressant. ‘Every single participant in the study was happier when he or she acted extroverted than when he or she acted introverted,’ Will Fleeson tells ABC.net. In social situations, talking more and behaving assertively made subjects happy. ‘But you can do things by yourself that work just as well,’ says Fleeson. ‘Things like going hiking, climbing a mountain, whitewater rafting.’ Too often, people think of happiness as something outside themselves. But ‘to some extent, we have control over our personalities.’ ” —The Week; Vol 3; Issue 96
***** ***** ***** *****
I've been wondering ...
Q: Why is it I feel great after most massage sessions, but sometimes I feel run down for a day?
A: Massage brings change to your body, and most of the time you feel invigorated and renewed after your session. When you feel less than terrific afterwards, the first question to ask is: Are you drinking plenty of pure water? The most common reason for feeling a little run down, etc. is that the massage has begun a detoxification process, and your body has released toxins and cellular waste into the bloodstream for disposal. Water helps your body to eliminate these toxins, just like the rinse cycle in the washing machine helps to remove dirt from your clothes that’s been loosened by the wash cycle. When you cut short or skip this vital step, you run the chance of letting this waste material redistribute in your body.
Water is one of the easiest health aids you can incorporate into your life. Make sure you drink several glasses every day—especially following your massage!
The downside to feeling good is it’s easy to take your good health for granted. When nothing is bothering you, it’s easier to ignore doing the things that keep you healthy. A common comparison made in the health field is taking care of your car—and for good reason. Many people are more aware of the need to maintain a regular schedule for tune-ups and oil changes than they are for their own bodies. Obviously, there’s no comparison between the importance of your health and well-being and that of your car. We expect to “trade up” and replace several vehicles during our driving years—but your body is by far the most important “vehicle” you have!
It may be that we associate the need for personal healthcare with illness rather than with the prevention of poor health—or that the auto industry has trained us to follow specific maintenance schedules. After all, a car is a fairly simple mechanical device compared to the human body.
Your maintenance plan for your body includes several parts that are best addressed daily, such as which fuel you put in your tank, how much wear and tear you subject yourself to, and all the other choices you make that affect the way you feel tomorrow and in the future.
If you think of your massage sessions as your body’s periodic tune-ups, you may ask how they can help you to keep cruising down the highway of life.
The underlying reason that makes regular massage so important to your overall health is this: Your body is constantly changing, and massage contributes to the positive aspects of these many changes. In other words, a major factor in maintaining good health is ensuring all of the communication systems of the body are operating properly and everything is kept moving. It’s very hard to imagine the millions of processes that are taking place every day within your body. Each of these minute actions contributes to the quality of your health and well-being. Since each system depends on the others, helping your body to keep things flowing properly greatly benefits your overall condition.
Anyone who’s received several massages is probably most aware of the reduction in tension and muscle stiffness. While massage is working out those noticeable kinks, it’s also contributing to more subtle areas of concern, like promoting detoxification and encouraging your body’s regenerative and cleansing capabilities, as well as boosting your immune function. These benefits are the ones you notice in increased energy, an enhanced sense of well-being, etc.
So, make the most of your most-prized vehicle (your body) by keeping it in tune with your regular massage sessions!
© 2006 Massage Marketing. Used with permission. All rights reserved.
***** ***** ***** *****
Depressed? Take Action!
“Doing even a little something to make yourself happy could bring you the real thing, say psychologists at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. They asked 50 students to record their moods during various activities. Almost any kind of outgoing behavior— talking to someone attractive or even just singing aloud—acted as an instant antidepressant. ‘Every single participant in the study was happier when he or she acted extroverted than when he or she acted introverted,’ Will Fleeson tells ABC.net. In social situations, talking more and behaving assertively made subjects happy. ‘But you can do things by yourself that work just as well,’ says Fleeson. ‘Things like going hiking, climbing a mountain, whitewater rafting.’ Too often, people think of happiness as something outside themselves. But ‘to some extent, we have control over our personalities.’ ” —The Week; Vol 3; Issue 96
***** ***** ***** *****
I've been wondering ...
Q: Why is it I feel great after most massage sessions, but sometimes I feel run down for a day?
A: Massage brings change to your body, and most of the time you feel invigorated and renewed after your session. When you feel less than terrific afterwards, the first question to ask is: Are you drinking plenty of pure water? The most common reason for feeling a little run down, etc. is that the massage has begun a detoxification process, and your body has released toxins and cellular waste into the bloodstream for disposal. Water helps your body to eliminate these toxins, just like the rinse cycle in the washing machine helps to remove dirt from your clothes that’s been loosened by the wash cycle. When you cut short or skip this vital step, you run the chance of letting this waste material redistribute in your body.
Water is one of the easiest health aids you can incorporate into your life. Make sure you drink several glasses every day—especially following your massage!
Monday, April 26, 2010
Reflexology as a First Aid Treatment
Keven & Barbara Kunz are known throughout both the community of Professional Reflexologist, Alternative Health and even Traditional Healthcare for their Research and books on the subject og Reflexology. Today you are getting one of their articles on the use of Reflexology as a treatment in First Aid.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Alternative medicine, but to insurers, no alternative
Just found this with an email that I got. I think it's worth sharing with anyone who is interested in Alternative Healthcare and Health Insurance.
Alternative medicine, but to insurers, no alternative
By SHAWN DOHERTY | sdoherty@madison.com | Posted: Wednesday, October 28, 2009 2:30 pm
Cari Hadac, 9, loves jokes, dancing and her pet fish, "except for the bully who eats the others," she says.
On Aug. 10, the Mount Horeb fourth-grader was diagnosed with a rare form of inoperable brain cancer, diffuse intrinsic pontine
glioma. DIPG affects between 150 to 300 children a year in the United States. It is terminal, usually within 18 months. Cari's
parents, Jim and Shannon, spent the weeks after that devastating diagnosis searching for help and hope. Doctors at UW Health
told them radiation and steroids might buy Cari some time. But the treatments left the little girl bloated, nauseated and exhausted.
"It was horrible. She just lay in bed and turned her face to the wall," recalls her dad. "She was losing her spirit."
So the Hadacs made the gut-wrenching decision to stop radiation and try alternative therapies, including chiropractic adjustments,
massage, acupressure, essential oils, herbal supplements and an organic diet. Within days, Cari was riding her bike to school again
and playing with her two younger sisters, Ellie and Maddie. "It wasn't until we switched to the alternatives that she got her health
and her spirit back," her mom says. Nobody knows how long the reprieve will last.
Now the Hadacs face another hurdle: how to pay for her care.
In one of the many paradoxes of our troubled health care system, the family's health insurance covered Cari's radiation treatments
- around $2,200 a day - though the treatments made her sick and offered no real cure. Yet like most health insurance policies in
this country, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota will not cover the less expensive holistic treatments that are now helping
her live more comfortably. The Hadacs have organized spaghetti dinner fundraisers to pay their bills. Advocates for alternative
therapies, who include growing numbers of mainstream doctors, say this is absurd.
"All this family is asking for is what their daughter, who may not have long on this planet, needs to be at peace and reduce her
suffering," says Dr. David Rakel, medical director of UW Health's Integrative Medicine clinic, which combines conventional and
holistic approaches to patient care. "If we have evidence of a treatment that can do some good with very little harm, it should be
covered. We can improve quality of life and health even if someone cannot be cured."
Rakel is not Cari's doctor, but he says her case is a tragic example of what he calls the "perverse incentives" and imbalances of a
medical system in which health care providers are too often paid for treating disease but not for promoting wellness. "We see
ironies like this every day," he says, citing as another example patients with high blood pressure and cholesterol prescribed costly
statin drugs with potentially dangerous side effects instead of simple lifestyle changes.
"It's a backward system," agrees Dr. Brenda Trudell, co-owner of New Beginnings Chiropractic in Mount Horeb. She treats back
pain in patients who she believes might have been spared years of surgeries, steroid injections and narcotics if they had been sent
earlier for adjustments, massages and acupuncture. "It would be a lot cheaper if we were funneling them to conservative
treatments first," she says. "People should at least be given the choice."
By the time Trudell treats some of these patients, she says, their anatomy has been so disfigured by the removal or fusion of bones
and the accumulation of scar tissue that sometimes there's not much she can do. Advocates of alternative medicine contend that in
our mad rush to high-tech surgeries and drugs - which, not coincidentally, are giant moneymakers in this country's for-profit health
care system - our country has overlooked ancient holistic therapies that could relieve suffering and help curb the country's $2.3
trillion annual health care tab.
"It's just crazy that insurance companies will pay to amputate a diabetic's foot, but they won't pay for treatments that might have
prevented that disease in the first place," says Bonnie Horrigan, a spokeswoman for the Bravewell Collaborative, a national
research organization for integrative medicine. "This is a system set up to support itself rather than the patient."
Insurance officials admit that in cases like Cari's, their industry can seem cruel. The business gives them little choice, they say.
"Look, it's heartbreaking," says J.P. Wieske, state affairs director for the Council for Affordable Health Insurance. "But the simple
reality is that insurance companies need to rely on studies to see what on a population basis will be effective. Right now, radiation
is the only treatment that has been shown to be effective for cancer. When you have a third-party payment system, you have to
make decisions on effective treatments. You cannot make them on a case-by-case basis. I understand that it doesn't feel like a good
decision, and yet when you look at the system, this is what you get."
Alternative medicine, but to insurers, no alternative. Until very recently, much of the medical establishment dismissed alternative medicine as wacky and downright dangerous: In
1963, the American Medical Association even formed a "Committee on Quackery" aimed at shutting down chiropractors. But
times have changed. Alternative therapies are gaining converts, even among the doctors who once shunned them, as evidenced by
new names that reflect this new partnership: complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), and integrative medicine. The
Midwest lags behind the coasts, but Madison's Yellow Pages lists close to 20 acupuncture providers - up from a handful just a
decade ago - and more than 50 massage providers.
The once-scorned chiropractors are abundant, too, with more than 150 in the Madison area. Cari's hometown, Mount Horeb, is
much better known around the world for chiropractic care than trolls, thanks to the Gonstead Clinic, founded in 1939 by
chiropractic pioneer Dr. Clarence Gonstead. The area's biggest clinics, including UW Health, Meriter, and Dean, now proudly tout
their various alternative services.
In 2006, nearly four out of 10 Americans used CAM treatments, spending $33.9 billion on them, according to a survey conducted
by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, an arm of the National Institutes of Health. Some seek relief
from such life-threatening illnesses as cancer and HIV. Others use the treatments as preventive medicine. But many rely on
holistic treatments to manage chronic conditions - including diabetes, obesity, infertility, back pain and headaches - that their
regular doctors and Western medicine can't fix.
"I was driven to try acupuncture out of desperation. I went to 16 doctors and specialists, and none of them knew how to help me,"
says Holly Fentress, 62, a Madison social worker who suffered from fibromyalgia. Fentriss says this soft tissue pain condition
kept her from sitting down, walking in the mall or lifting her arms to change a light bulb. She scraped together $65 once or twice a
week for acupuncture sessions. Today, she says, she is cured. "I would have gotten better a lot sooner if my insurance had just paid
for it instead of wasting money on me floundering around," she says. "I don't know why they don't pay for it - it's one of the oldest
medicines in the world."
Senator Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, a longtime supporter of nontraditional medicine, co-sponsored a proposal during the health care
debate this summer that would have required health care plans across the country to cover licensed alternative medical providers,
but the amendment died in the sound and fury of the health care debate. Washington is the only state to pioneer a parity bill on its
own. Around a dozen states, mostly on the coasts, also mandate coverage of acupuncture, and a handful mandate benefits for
massage treatments, according to research published in the Nutrition Business Journal.
But patients in Wisconsin are out of luck. Chiropractors, who have a stronger lobby than the other providers, are guaranteed
insurance coverage under state law. Otherwise, carriers can decide if they want to cover complementary and alternative therapies.
In the Madison area, only Group Health Cooperative has decided to cover alternative medicine as a regular benefit. Other health
plans in the area offer discounts on the treatments as part of their wellness packages, along with coupons to restaurants and gyms,
but they are little more than "marketing tools," complains David Bock, board president of the Wisconsin Society of Certified
Acupuncturists.
Access to insurance coverage affects much more than a patient's pocketbook. Frequently, experts say, doctors won't even tell
patients about available treatments if they're not covered by insurance. As a result, many patients are stuck discovering,
investigating and paying for alternative medicine on their own.
And that can be a lonely, expensive and controversial place to be.
The Hadacs spent sleepless nights scouring the Internet for information and support. They found out about some of the holistic
approaches they use with Cari from parents of other children with brainstem tumors. (Their treatment team at UW recommended
against holistic care, say the Hadacs.) When they decided to stop Cari's radiation treatments last month after only 13 of the 30
prescribed sessions, Jim says, the radiologist told them Cari would probably die within two months. Cari's oncologist declined to
comment on this story, saying she did not want to make the family's life any more "difficult" than it already is. But other
physicians say that the world of alternative medicine is still largely unregulated, and that the Internet, in particular, is rife with
so-called cures and hoaxes that can mislead and exploit desperate parents.
Jim and Shannon say Cari receives only safe holistic therapies from providers they either know personally, or have carefully
screened through friends. "You can't hurt a 9-year-old girl by giving her green tea," says Ray Yingling, the owner of the vitamin
store on Monroe Street that provides the family herbal supplements and vitamins.
The Hadacs believe that prayer can help Cari, too, yet while they pray for a miracle, they also talk about how to make their
daughter's last days as happy and comfortable as possible. They say the natural treatments are safer and healthier for her than
Alternative medicine, but to insurers,radiation and steroids, which were "poisoning" her body and which the doctors said offered no real hope for a cure. And they say a
brain scan two weeks ago showing Cari's tumor had shrunk by 10 percent is proof they are doing the right thing, though doctors
might argue it is proof the radiation had been working. "They handed us a death sentence," Jim says. "We chose a path of health
and hope."
As for Cari, she complains she is sick and tired of "all the cancer stuff." She feared the radiation treatments at first, especially the
part where she had to put on a mask and be bolted into a machine. But she's not crazy about her new dietary regimen, either. She
misses potato chips and doughnuts, and demands a straw so she doesn't gag on her daily dose of what she calls "green juice," a
powder of vitamins and extracts from fruits and vegetables that her parents mix with purified water. She doesn't mind her weekly
appointments with a Mount Horeb chiropractor. She likes the peppermint oil Susan Ludington, who owns Blue Mounds Essential
Oils and calls herself a "healer," rubs on her feet to help her relax. And, though she can be a bit ticklish, she loves her massage
therapy sessions with Shelley Ferguson, owner of Madison's Bodyworks Massage and Nutrition.
Turning off the beaten path prescribed by doctors and insurance coverage means the Hadacs will need to come up with close to
$500 a month to pay for all of Cari's treatments. They also have switched to an expensive organic diet, staying away from
processed foods and sugars they fear "feed" the cancer. The Mount Horeb spaghetti fundraiser raised close to $28,000, they say,
and what money they don't use they plan to donate to other families like their own struggling to pay for alternative treatments not
covered by insurance. "Good for them," says Tami Wahl, legislative director for the Alliance for Natural Health, a coalition that
advocates for "health freedom" - access to both natural and mainstream medicine. "A lot of people just stick to what their
insurance pays for."
A lot of people are trapped. Karla Meyer, 39, has suffered from debilitating migraine headaches for years. They wreak havoc on
her personal life and force her to call in sick to her job with the state one week a month. Her neurologist thinks acupuncture and
craniosacral therapy - a gentle form of bodywork - would help, but her insurance won't pay. Yet it will pay thousands of dollars for
12 different prescription drugs that don't do her any good, she says. How would she make her case to the insurance company if she
could? "I'd say, 'Look at my medical records. Look at all the work I'm missing,' " she says. " 'If you are truly there to help me get
better, in the long run it would help me the most and be cheaper to pay for these treatments. But maybe you'd rather have me
drugged out for the rest of my life.' "
Her neurologist is frustrated, too. Dr. Douglas Dulli, a neurologist with UW Health's Pain and Headache Clinic, says that many of
his chronic patients would fare much better with acupuncture or massage than with what he can do for them. "As a doctor, I have a
limited repertoire," he says. "I can just give pills, and frankly, a lot of the medicine I give is hazardous. But the problem with these
much more innocent and helpful therapies is that patients have no access to them because insurance won't pay for them."
Duli is a believer in the power of alternative medicine: He once tried massage for a running injury. It worked so well, he said, he
now goes regularly. "I can afford to pay out of pocket," he says. "What about all the people who can't?"
Insurance representatives say it is as unreasonable to expect a health policy to cover these kinds of treatments as it would be to
expect an auto policy to pay for regular car washes. "Wellness is not something insurance typically pays for," says Wieske. "It's
sort of like a car insurer doesn't cover routine maintenance. If an insurance policy covered every brake job and made sure the car
was conspicuously clean so you don't have a smeared-up windshield, you could limit the number of accidents. But it would be
prohibitively expensive."
Some agents consider these treatments a luxury and say footing the bill for them would lead to what the industry calls
overutilization, or abuse, of services. Costs would spiral out of control for everybody, they say, just as they did when prescription
drugs began to be routinely covered. "It's human nature that when you pay for something yourself, you're going to be sure you
need it," says Dan Schwartzer, a lobbyist with the Wisconsin Association of Health Underwriters. "But when a third party starts
paying for it, you'll do it even if you don't really need it. Who doesn't like to have a massage?"
Even if there is anecdotal evidence that these therapies truly help some people, insurance officials say they need proof. One
problem with holistic medicine and the whole concept of wellness, says Wieske, is that it is very difficult to talk about objectively
and to measure its results. Underwriters like to be able to plug costs and benefits into actuarial tables, and executives need to
protect their companies from liability and malpractice claims. "I totally understand that there is a strong relationship between the
mind and the body," says Dr. Ron Parton, vice president and chief medical officer of Physicians Plus Insurance Corp. "But what is
covered by insurance still needs to be driven by safety and scientific evidence."
More research is needed. But who will fund it? "There's a reason drug companies and medical device companies pay for
research," Peyton says, alluding to the tremendous profits they make as a result. "Who's going to make enough money selling
Alternative medicine, but to insurers, no alternative massages?"
Advocates see the barrier, too. "There's not a great profit potential in health and healing. Many of these therapies can't be
patented," UW's Rakel says. "Once you attach a for-profit motive to human health, we're lost."
Advocates say efforts to enact insurance parity also will be blocked by the drug industry and other powerful players who profit
from the sick and view natural cures as competition.
But practitioners of alternative medicine are too fragmented and too stubbornly independent, at least right now, to organize and
fight back. Many are ambivalent about becoming part of mainstream medicine anyway.
Dr. Susan Padberg quit her family practice at a local HMO and went to school to become a licensed acupuncturist because she
"burned out" working within the system, she says. She had a caseload of several thousand patients and felt constrained by the
15-minute limit on patient visits imposed by insurance reimbursements. Today, she sees a few hundred patients a year and spends
at least an hour with each one. While she earns much less than she used to, she is happier, she says.
CAM providers say that while they hope insurance coverage one day becomes standard for their clients' sakes, many say they
want nothing to do with it. Most earn between $55 and $125 an hour before taxes - too little, they say, to compensate them for
wasting time battling insurance companies. Many require the few patients who have coverage to pay up front and take care of the
paperwork themselves. "On the rare occasions when patients do file for coverage, it's an absolute nightmare," acupuncturist Bock
says. "I have to refile it three times, and it ends up taking two or three of my hours to get reimbursed."
Massage therapist Shelley Ferguson balks at being controlled by insurance policies, too. She can spend time with her clients that
mainstream providers on a tight schedule regulated by insurance reimbursements rarely have. The personal side of healing is more
important than anything else, she says.
There are scientific reasons for how and why the massages she gives Cari help her relax. The gentle strokes not only release the
tension in Cari's neck and head, but restore circulation, blood, and oxygen to the area of the brain invaded by the tumor, she says.
But it is the art of what she does that matters much more, Ferguson says - the time she takes to help heal, though not cure, a little
girl with a scary diagnosis.
"I don't see Cari when she's angry, wondering, 'Why me?' Or scared, wondering what's going to happen next," Ferguson says. "I
don't bombard her with questions or advice or procedures. I don't invade her body. We just enjoy our sessions together. She can
relax and talk about the little funny things she's doing, like the Halloween party and what she's dressing up as. For one hour, she
can be just a 9-year-old girl."
Alternative medicine, but to insurers, no alternative
By SHAWN DOHERTY | sdoherty@madison.com | Posted: Wednesday, October 28, 2009 2:30 pm
Cari Hadac, 9, loves jokes, dancing and her pet fish, "except for the bully who eats the others," she says.
On Aug. 10, the Mount Horeb fourth-grader was diagnosed with a rare form of inoperable brain cancer, diffuse intrinsic pontine
glioma. DIPG affects between 150 to 300 children a year in the United States. It is terminal, usually within 18 months. Cari's
parents, Jim and Shannon, spent the weeks after that devastating diagnosis searching for help and hope. Doctors at UW Health
told them radiation and steroids might buy Cari some time. But the treatments left the little girl bloated, nauseated and exhausted.
"It was horrible. She just lay in bed and turned her face to the wall," recalls her dad. "She was losing her spirit."
So the Hadacs made the gut-wrenching decision to stop radiation and try alternative therapies, including chiropractic adjustments,
massage, acupressure, essential oils, herbal supplements and an organic diet. Within days, Cari was riding her bike to school again
and playing with her two younger sisters, Ellie and Maddie. "It wasn't until we switched to the alternatives that she got her health
and her spirit back," her mom says. Nobody knows how long the reprieve will last.
Now the Hadacs face another hurdle: how to pay for her care.
In one of the many paradoxes of our troubled health care system, the family's health insurance covered Cari's radiation treatments
- around $2,200 a day - though the treatments made her sick and offered no real cure. Yet like most health insurance policies in
this country, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota will not cover the less expensive holistic treatments that are now helping
her live more comfortably. The Hadacs have organized spaghetti dinner fundraisers to pay their bills. Advocates for alternative
therapies, who include growing numbers of mainstream doctors, say this is absurd.
"All this family is asking for is what their daughter, who may not have long on this planet, needs to be at peace and reduce her
suffering," says Dr. David Rakel, medical director of UW Health's Integrative Medicine clinic, which combines conventional and
holistic approaches to patient care. "If we have evidence of a treatment that can do some good with very little harm, it should be
covered. We can improve quality of life and health even if someone cannot be cured."
Rakel is not Cari's doctor, but he says her case is a tragic example of what he calls the "perverse incentives" and imbalances of a
medical system in which health care providers are too often paid for treating disease but not for promoting wellness. "We see
ironies like this every day," he says, citing as another example patients with high blood pressure and cholesterol prescribed costly
statin drugs with potentially dangerous side effects instead of simple lifestyle changes.
"It's a backward system," agrees Dr. Brenda Trudell, co-owner of New Beginnings Chiropractic in Mount Horeb. She treats back
pain in patients who she believes might have been spared years of surgeries, steroid injections and narcotics if they had been sent
earlier for adjustments, massages and acupuncture. "It would be a lot cheaper if we were funneling them to conservative
treatments first," she says. "People should at least be given the choice."
By the time Trudell treats some of these patients, she says, their anatomy has been so disfigured by the removal or fusion of bones
and the accumulation of scar tissue that sometimes there's not much she can do. Advocates of alternative medicine contend that in
our mad rush to high-tech surgeries and drugs - which, not coincidentally, are giant moneymakers in this country's for-profit health
care system - our country has overlooked ancient holistic therapies that could relieve suffering and help curb the country's $2.3
trillion annual health care tab.
"It's just crazy that insurance companies will pay to amputate a diabetic's foot, but they won't pay for treatments that might have
prevented that disease in the first place," says Bonnie Horrigan, a spokeswoman for the Bravewell Collaborative, a national
research organization for integrative medicine. "This is a system set up to support itself rather than the patient."
Insurance officials admit that in cases like Cari's, their industry can seem cruel. The business gives them little choice, they say.
"Look, it's heartbreaking," says J.P. Wieske, state affairs director for the Council for Affordable Health Insurance. "But the simple
reality is that insurance companies need to rely on studies to see what on a population basis will be effective. Right now, radiation
is the only treatment that has been shown to be effective for cancer. When you have a third-party payment system, you have to
make decisions on effective treatments. You cannot make them on a case-by-case basis. I understand that it doesn't feel like a good
decision, and yet when you look at the system, this is what you get."
Alternative medicine, but to insurers, no alternative. Until very recently, much of the medical establishment dismissed alternative medicine as wacky and downright dangerous: In
1963, the American Medical Association even formed a "Committee on Quackery" aimed at shutting down chiropractors. But
times have changed. Alternative therapies are gaining converts, even among the doctors who once shunned them, as evidenced by
new names that reflect this new partnership: complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), and integrative medicine. The
Midwest lags behind the coasts, but Madison's Yellow Pages lists close to 20 acupuncture providers - up from a handful just a
decade ago - and more than 50 massage providers.
The once-scorned chiropractors are abundant, too, with more than 150 in the Madison area. Cari's hometown, Mount Horeb, is
much better known around the world for chiropractic care than trolls, thanks to the Gonstead Clinic, founded in 1939 by
chiropractic pioneer Dr. Clarence Gonstead. The area's biggest clinics, including UW Health, Meriter, and Dean, now proudly tout
their various alternative services.
In 2006, nearly four out of 10 Americans used CAM treatments, spending $33.9 billion on them, according to a survey conducted
by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, an arm of the National Institutes of Health. Some seek relief
from such life-threatening illnesses as cancer and HIV. Others use the treatments as preventive medicine. But many rely on
holistic treatments to manage chronic conditions - including diabetes, obesity, infertility, back pain and headaches - that their
regular doctors and Western medicine can't fix.
"I was driven to try acupuncture out of desperation. I went to 16 doctors and specialists, and none of them knew how to help me,"
says Holly Fentress, 62, a Madison social worker who suffered from fibromyalgia. Fentriss says this soft tissue pain condition
kept her from sitting down, walking in the mall or lifting her arms to change a light bulb. She scraped together $65 once or twice a
week for acupuncture sessions. Today, she says, she is cured. "I would have gotten better a lot sooner if my insurance had just paid
for it instead of wasting money on me floundering around," she says. "I don't know why they don't pay for it - it's one of the oldest
medicines in the world."
Senator Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, a longtime supporter of nontraditional medicine, co-sponsored a proposal during the health care
debate this summer that would have required health care plans across the country to cover licensed alternative medical providers,
but the amendment died in the sound and fury of the health care debate. Washington is the only state to pioneer a parity bill on its
own. Around a dozen states, mostly on the coasts, also mandate coverage of acupuncture, and a handful mandate benefits for
massage treatments, according to research published in the Nutrition Business Journal.
But patients in Wisconsin are out of luck. Chiropractors, who have a stronger lobby than the other providers, are guaranteed
insurance coverage under state law. Otherwise, carriers can decide if they want to cover complementary and alternative therapies.
In the Madison area, only Group Health Cooperative has decided to cover alternative medicine as a regular benefit. Other health
plans in the area offer discounts on the treatments as part of their wellness packages, along with coupons to restaurants and gyms,
but they are little more than "marketing tools," complains David Bock, board president of the Wisconsin Society of Certified
Acupuncturists.
Access to insurance coverage affects much more than a patient's pocketbook. Frequently, experts say, doctors won't even tell
patients about available treatments if they're not covered by insurance. As a result, many patients are stuck discovering,
investigating and paying for alternative medicine on their own.
And that can be a lonely, expensive and controversial place to be.
The Hadacs spent sleepless nights scouring the Internet for information and support. They found out about some of the holistic
approaches they use with Cari from parents of other children with brainstem tumors. (Their treatment team at UW recommended
against holistic care, say the Hadacs.) When they decided to stop Cari's radiation treatments last month after only 13 of the 30
prescribed sessions, Jim says, the radiologist told them Cari would probably die within two months. Cari's oncologist declined to
comment on this story, saying she did not want to make the family's life any more "difficult" than it already is. But other
physicians say that the world of alternative medicine is still largely unregulated, and that the Internet, in particular, is rife with
so-called cures and hoaxes that can mislead and exploit desperate parents.
Jim and Shannon say Cari receives only safe holistic therapies from providers they either know personally, or have carefully
screened through friends. "You can't hurt a 9-year-old girl by giving her green tea," says Ray Yingling, the owner of the vitamin
store on Monroe Street that provides the family herbal supplements and vitamins.
The Hadacs believe that prayer can help Cari, too, yet while they pray for a miracle, they also talk about how to make their
daughter's last days as happy and comfortable as possible. They say the natural treatments are safer and healthier for her than
Alternative medicine, but to insurers,radiation and steroids, which were "poisoning" her body and which the doctors said offered no real hope for a cure. And they say a
brain scan two weeks ago showing Cari's tumor had shrunk by 10 percent is proof they are doing the right thing, though doctors
might argue it is proof the radiation had been working. "They handed us a death sentence," Jim says. "We chose a path of health
and hope."
As for Cari, she complains she is sick and tired of "all the cancer stuff." She feared the radiation treatments at first, especially the
part where she had to put on a mask and be bolted into a machine. But she's not crazy about her new dietary regimen, either. She
misses potato chips and doughnuts, and demands a straw so she doesn't gag on her daily dose of what she calls "green juice," a
powder of vitamins and extracts from fruits and vegetables that her parents mix with purified water. She doesn't mind her weekly
appointments with a Mount Horeb chiropractor. She likes the peppermint oil Susan Ludington, who owns Blue Mounds Essential
Oils and calls herself a "healer," rubs on her feet to help her relax. And, though she can be a bit ticklish, she loves her massage
therapy sessions with Shelley Ferguson, owner of Madison's Bodyworks Massage and Nutrition.
Turning off the beaten path prescribed by doctors and insurance coverage means the Hadacs will need to come up with close to
$500 a month to pay for all of Cari's treatments. They also have switched to an expensive organic diet, staying away from
processed foods and sugars they fear "feed" the cancer. The Mount Horeb spaghetti fundraiser raised close to $28,000, they say,
and what money they don't use they plan to donate to other families like their own struggling to pay for alternative treatments not
covered by insurance. "Good for them," says Tami Wahl, legislative director for the Alliance for Natural Health, a coalition that
advocates for "health freedom" - access to both natural and mainstream medicine. "A lot of people just stick to what their
insurance pays for."
A lot of people are trapped. Karla Meyer, 39, has suffered from debilitating migraine headaches for years. They wreak havoc on
her personal life and force her to call in sick to her job with the state one week a month. Her neurologist thinks acupuncture and
craniosacral therapy - a gentle form of bodywork - would help, but her insurance won't pay. Yet it will pay thousands of dollars for
12 different prescription drugs that don't do her any good, she says. How would she make her case to the insurance company if she
could? "I'd say, 'Look at my medical records. Look at all the work I'm missing,' " she says. " 'If you are truly there to help me get
better, in the long run it would help me the most and be cheaper to pay for these treatments. But maybe you'd rather have me
drugged out for the rest of my life.' "
Her neurologist is frustrated, too. Dr. Douglas Dulli, a neurologist with UW Health's Pain and Headache Clinic, says that many of
his chronic patients would fare much better with acupuncture or massage than with what he can do for them. "As a doctor, I have a
limited repertoire," he says. "I can just give pills, and frankly, a lot of the medicine I give is hazardous. But the problem with these
much more innocent and helpful therapies is that patients have no access to them because insurance won't pay for them."
Duli is a believer in the power of alternative medicine: He once tried massage for a running injury. It worked so well, he said, he
now goes regularly. "I can afford to pay out of pocket," he says. "What about all the people who can't?"
Insurance representatives say it is as unreasonable to expect a health policy to cover these kinds of treatments as it would be to
expect an auto policy to pay for regular car washes. "Wellness is not something insurance typically pays for," says Wieske. "It's
sort of like a car insurer doesn't cover routine maintenance. If an insurance policy covered every brake job and made sure the car
was conspicuously clean so you don't have a smeared-up windshield, you could limit the number of accidents. But it would be
prohibitively expensive."
Some agents consider these treatments a luxury and say footing the bill for them would lead to what the industry calls
overutilization, or abuse, of services. Costs would spiral out of control for everybody, they say, just as they did when prescription
drugs began to be routinely covered. "It's human nature that when you pay for something yourself, you're going to be sure you
need it," says Dan Schwartzer, a lobbyist with the Wisconsin Association of Health Underwriters. "But when a third party starts
paying for it, you'll do it even if you don't really need it. Who doesn't like to have a massage?"
Even if there is anecdotal evidence that these therapies truly help some people, insurance officials say they need proof. One
problem with holistic medicine and the whole concept of wellness, says Wieske, is that it is very difficult to talk about objectively
and to measure its results. Underwriters like to be able to plug costs and benefits into actuarial tables, and executives need to
protect their companies from liability and malpractice claims. "I totally understand that there is a strong relationship between the
mind and the body," says Dr. Ron Parton, vice president and chief medical officer of Physicians Plus Insurance Corp. "But what is
covered by insurance still needs to be driven by safety and scientific evidence."
More research is needed. But who will fund it? "There's a reason drug companies and medical device companies pay for
research," Peyton says, alluding to the tremendous profits they make as a result. "Who's going to make enough money selling
Alternative medicine, but to insurers, no alternative massages?"
Advocates see the barrier, too. "There's not a great profit potential in health and healing. Many of these therapies can't be
patented," UW's Rakel says. "Once you attach a for-profit motive to human health, we're lost."
Advocates say efforts to enact insurance parity also will be blocked by the drug industry and other powerful players who profit
from the sick and view natural cures as competition.
But practitioners of alternative medicine are too fragmented and too stubbornly independent, at least right now, to organize and
fight back. Many are ambivalent about becoming part of mainstream medicine anyway.
Dr. Susan Padberg quit her family practice at a local HMO and went to school to become a licensed acupuncturist because she
"burned out" working within the system, she says. She had a caseload of several thousand patients and felt constrained by the
15-minute limit on patient visits imposed by insurance reimbursements. Today, she sees a few hundred patients a year and spends
at least an hour with each one. While she earns much less than she used to, she is happier, she says.
CAM providers say that while they hope insurance coverage one day becomes standard for their clients' sakes, many say they
want nothing to do with it. Most earn between $55 and $125 an hour before taxes - too little, they say, to compensate them for
wasting time battling insurance companies. Many require the few patients who have coverage to pay up front and take care of the
paperwork themselves. "On the rare occasions when patients do file for coverage, it's an absolute nightmare," acupuncturist Bock
says. "I have to refile it three times, and it ends up taking two or three of my hours to get reimbursed."
Massage therapist Shelley Ferguson balks at being controlled by insurance policies, too. She can spend time with her clients that
mainstream providers on a tight schedule regulated by insurance reimbursements rarely have. The personal side of healing is more
important than anything else, she says.
There are scientific reasons for how and why the massages she gives Cari help her relax. The gentle strokes not only release the
tension in Cari's neck and head, but restore circulation, blood, and oxygen to the area of the brain invaded by the tumor, she says.
But it is the art of what she does that matters much more, Ferguson says - the time she takes to help heal, though not cure, a little
girl with a scary diagnosis.
"I don't see Cari when she's angry, wondering, 'Why me?' Or scared, wondering what's going to happen next," Ferguson says. "I
don't bombard her with questions or advice or procedures. I don't invade her body. We just enjoy our sessions together. She can
relax and talk about the little funny things she's doing, like the Halloween party and what she's dressing up as. For one hour, she
can be just a 9-year-old girl."
Massage for Jaw Pain
TMJ – tempromandibular joint
TMD – tempromandibular dysfunction or Tempromandibular Joint Disorder
TMJ/TMD is a group of symptoms that involvce the temporomandibular, or jaw, joints. Besides jaw pain, grinding and popping, the patient/client may also experience limited jaw movement, ringing in the ears, dizziness, headaches, or pain andlinited range of motion in the neck and shoulders. Symptoms of the disorder may also be found throughout the total body and will vary from person to person.
TMJ/TMD can be brought on by a variety of problems such as a traumatic injury, an uneven bite, arthritis of the temporomandibular joint or the slipping or tearing of the joint disk, itself. Injuries in the neck and shoulders, such as whiplash, can also bring on TMJ/TMD. Other causes include stress overload and postural problems.
How does massage help?
Bodywork is an ideal modality to relieve the pain of TMJ. According to medical massage proponent Boris Prilutsky, “Massage therapy should be focused toward the reduction of tension in the masticatory muscles, releasing tension in fascia, and elimination of trigger points. Post-isometric relaxation is an extremely important tool for the restoration of the range of motion.”
Generally most researchers agree that the most common element of TMJ/TMD is myofascial pain — discomfort in the muscles (myo) and their connective tissue (fascia). Massage by releasing muscle tension and stretching contracted fascia of the muscles that control jaw, neck and shoulders, can relieve myofascial pain. As the tissue relaxes, circulation of blood increases. This soften the fascia, cleanses the tissue of irritating toxins which cause the inflammation and improves the nutrition to the stressed areas. A significant amount of pain relief can result, including a decrease in the strength and frequency of headaches.
Additionally, when the tension from postural problems and the contracted tissues are released, range of motion in the jaw, neck and shoulders can improve and the body can return to an easier, natural posture.
Self-help Suggestions for clients suffering with a painful jaw:
* Avoid gum chewing and crunchy foods, eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet.
* Maintain good posture while woring at the computer, watching TV or reading. Break frequently and change position, rest your hands and arms, give the muscles a stress break.
* Relax the facial and jaw muscles throughout the day.
* Use moist heat to increase circulation around the tense areas of the jaw muscles.
* Use relaxation techniques to reduce stress and tension throughout the entire body.
TMD – tempromandibular dysfunction or Tempromandibular Joint Disorder
TMJ/TMD is a group of symptoms that involvce the temporomandibular, or jaw, joints. Besides jaw pain, grinding and popping, the patient/client may also experience limited jaw movement, ringing in the ears, dizziness, headaches, or pain andlinited range of motion in the neck and shoulders. Symptoms of the disorder may also be found throughout the total body and will vary from person to person.
TMJ/TMD can be brought on by a variety of problems such as a traumatic injury, an uneven bite, arthritis of the temporomandibular joint or the slipping or tearing of the joint disk, itself. Injuries in the neck and shoulders, such as whiplash, can also bring on TMJ/TMD. Other causes include stress overload and postural problems.
How does massage help?
Bodywork is an ideal modality to relieve the pain of TMJ. According to medical massage proponent Boris Prilutsky, “Massage therapy should be focused toward the reduction of tension in the masticatory muscles, releasing tension in fascia, and elimination of trigger points. Post-isometric relaxation is an extremely important tool for the restoration of the range of motion.”
Generally most researchers agree that the most common element of TMJ/TMD is myofascial pain — discomfort in the muscles (myo) and their connective tissue (fascia). Massage by releasing muscle tension and stretching contracted fascia of the muscles that control jaw, neck and shoulders, can relieve myofascial pain. As the tissue relaxes, circulation of blood increases. This soften the fascia, cleanses the tissue of irritating toxins which cause the inflammation and improves the nutrition to the stressed areas. A significant amount of pain relief can result, including a decrease in the strength and frequency of headaches.
Additionally, when the tension from postural problems and the contracted tissues are released, range of motion in the jaw, neck and shoulders can improve and the body can return to an easier, natural posture.
Self-help Suggestions for clients suffering with a painful jaw:
* Avoid gum chewing and crunchy foods, eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet.
* Maintain good posture while woring at the computer, watching TV or reading. Break frequently and change position, rest your hands and arms, give the muscles a stress break.
* Relax the facial and jaw muscles throughout the day.
* Use moist heat to increase circulation around the tense areas of the jaw muscles.
* Use relaxation techniques to reduce stress and tension throughout the entire body.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Take a look at our Package Discounts Specials
You can now book your appointments online! By offering online scheduling you will be able to:
* Schedule 24/7: Schedule your appointment when it's convenient for you; whether that's 3 p.m. or 3 a.m.
* Manage Your Appointments: After creating your account, you can view past and upcoming appointments and even reschedule if needed.
* Schedule from Your Phone: Make appointments straight from your BlackBerry or iPhone.
* Receive Reminders: When you schedule online, you will receive an e-mail reminding you of your appointment.
Schedule Now or Create Your Account for Later
Package Discounts
5 sessions Massage, Reflexology or Reiki $300.00 savings of $100.00
7 sessionsMassage, Reflexology or Reiki $455.00 savings of $105.00
9 sessions Massage, Reflexology or Reiki $475.00 Savings of $245.00
12 sessions Massage, Reflexology or Reiki $500.00savings of $460.00
These discounts are off the 'Time of Service" price.
Looking forward to seeing you on my calendar!
Massage with Style
* Schedule 24/7: Schedule your appointment when it's convenient for you; whether that's 3 p.m. or 3 a.m.
* Manage Your Appointments: After creating your account, you can view past and upcoming appointments and even reschedule if needed.
* Schedule from Your Phone: Make appointments straight from your BlackBerry or iPhone.
* Receive Reminders: When you schedule online, you will receive an e-mail reminding you of your appointment.
Schedule Now or Create Your Account for Later
Package Discounts
5 sessions Massage, Reflexology or Reiki $300.00 savings of $100.00
7 sessionsMassage, Reflexology or Reiki $455.00 savings of $105.00
9 sessions Massage, Reflexology or Reiki $475.00 Savings of $245.00
12 sessions Massage, Reflexology or Reiki $500.00savings of $460.00
These discounts are off the 'Time of Service" price.
Looking forward to seeing you on my calendar!
Massage with Style
Reflexology and Current Research
Reflexology enhances medical care
Reflexology enhances medical care: Reflexology helps where nothing else can for many: phantom limb pain sufferers, neuropathy patients, and hemodialysis patients to name a few.
Reflexology aids post-operative recovery
Reflexology aids post-operative recovery: Reflexology work aids recovery after surgery as shown by several studies, reducing pain and lessening the use of post operative analgesics.
Reflexology eases pregnancy, delivery and postpartum
Reflexology eases pregnancy, delivery and post-partum effects: Women who received reflexology experienced shorter labor times and used less analgesia. In addition, reflexology showed a positive impact on postpartum depression, anxiety, urination and bowel movements.
Reflexology complements cancer care
Complements cancer care: Pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or anxiety eased for chemotherapy patients following reflexology work as shown by16 studies fom 7 countries.
Reflexology benefits mental health
Reflexology benefits mental health: Research demonstrates that reflexology can reduce depression (11 studies) and anxiety (9 studies).
Reflexology reduces pain
Reduces pain: Pain reduction following reflexology work is documented in 27 studies including research showing impact on individuals of all ages and health states.
Reflexology improves blood flow
Reflexology improves blood flow: Separate studies show that reflexology work increases blood flow to the feet, brain, kidneys and intestines.
Reflexology ameliorates health concerns
Reflexology ameliorates health concerns: Research shows that reflexology work helps indiviuals of all ages with some 78 health concerns ranging from aggressive behavior to urinary concerns.
Reflexology creates relaxation
Reflexology creates relaxation: From the moment the reflexologist’s hands start their work, the relaxation begins as shown in research using EEG brain activity. All together, 24 studies demonstrate reflexology’s relaxation effects.
For more information on any of the above read the
Evidenced Based Reflexology Research Series
by Kevin & Barbara Kunz
Reflexology enhances medical care: Reflexology helps where nothing else can for many: phantom limb pain sufferers, neuropathy patients, and hemodialysis patients to name a few.
Reflexology aids post-operative recovery
Reflexology aids post-operative recovery: Reflexology work aids recovery after surgery as shown by several studies, reducing pain and lessening the use of post operative analgesics.
Reflexology eases pregnancy, delivery and postpartum
Reflexology eases pregnancy, delivery and post-partum effects: Women who received reflexology experienced shorter labor times and used less analgesia. In addition, reflexology showed a positive impact on postpartum depression, anxiety, urination and bowel movements.
Reflexology complements cancer care
Complements cancer care: Pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or anxiety eased for chemotherapy patients following reflexology work as shown by16 studies fom 7 countries.
Reflexology benefits mental health
Reflexology benefits mental health: Research demonstrates that reflexology can reduce depression (11 studies) and anxiety (9 studies).
Reflexology reduces pain
Reduces pain: Pain reduction following reflexology work is documented in 27 studies including research showing impact on individuals of all ages and health states.
Reflexology improves blood flow
Reflexology improves blood flow: Separate studies show that reflexology work increases blood flow to the feet, brain, kidneys and intestines.
Reflexology ameliorates health concerns
Reflexology ameliorates health concerns: Research shows that reflexology work helps indiviuals of all ages with some 78 health concerns ranging from aggressive behavior to urinary concerns.
Reflexology creates relaxation
Reflexology creates relaxation: From the moment the reflexologist’s hands start their work, the relaxation begins as shown in research using EEG brain activity. All together, 24 studies demonstrate reflexology’s relaxation effects.
For more information on any of the above read the
Evidenced Based Reflexology Research Series
by Kevin & Barbara Kunz
CAM Use Popular in U.S.
About 38 percent of adults in the United States use some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapy, according to a new nationwide government survey released in December 2008. And while the overall use of CAM therapies has remained steady over the past five years, use of massage therapy has increased more than 65 percent.
This survey was part of the 2007 National Health Interview Survey, an annual study of the health- and illness-related experiences of Americans, and was developed by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) and the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). It included questions on 36 types of commonly used CAM therapies—10 provider-based therapies, such as acupuncture, chiropractic and massage, and 26 other therapies that do not require a provider, such as herbal supplements and meditation.
The survey results represent the first update of data gathered by NCCAM and NCHS in the 2002 National Health Interview Survey. Comparing the data from the 2002 and 2007 shows significant increases in the use of some specific CAM therapies, such as deep breathing, meditation, massage therapy and yoga.
The 2007 survey marks the first time questions were included on children’s use of CAM. Nearly 12 percent— about one in nine—of U.S. children use CAM. Children are five times more likely to use CAM if a parent or other relative uses CAM. Other factors in CAM use are similar for both adults and children, such as socioeconomic status, geographic region, the number of health conditions, the number of doctor visits in the last 12 months, and delaying or not receiving conventional care because of cost.
“These statistics confirm that CAM practices are a frequently used component of Americans’ health care regimens, and reinforce the need for rigorous research to study the safety and effectiveness of these therapies,” says Josephine P. Briggs, MD, director of NCCAM. “The data also point out the need for patients and health care providers to openly discuss CAM use to ensure safe and coordinated care.”
Most Used CAM Therapies in 2007
Therapy Adults, 18 and up Children under 18
Nonvitamin, nonmineral, 17.7 percent 3.9 percent
natural products such as
fish oil/omega 3/DHA,
glucosamine, echinacea
and ginseng
Deep breathing exercises 12.7 percent 2.2 percent
Meditation 9.4 percent
Chiropractic or 8.6 percent 2.8 percent
osteopathic manipulation
Massage 8.3 percent
Yoga 6.1 percent 2.1 percent
This survey was part of the 2007 National Health Interview Survey, an annual study of the health- and illness-related experiences of Americans, and was developed by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) and the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). It included questions on 36 types of commonly used CAM therapies—10 provider-based therapies, such as acupuncture, chiropractic and massage, and 26 other therapies that do not require a provider, such as herbal supplements and meditation.
The survey results represent the first update of data gathered by NCCAM and NCHS in the 2002 National Health Interview Survey. Comparing the data from the 2002 and 2007 shows significant increases in the use of some specific CAM therapies, such as deep breathing, meditation, massage therapy and yoga.
The 2007 survey marks the first time questions were included on children’s use of CAM. Nearly 12 percent— about one in nine—of U.S. children use CAM. Children are five times more likely to use CAM if a parent or other relative uses CAM. Other factors in CAM use are similar for both adults and children, such as socioeconomic status, geographic region, the number of health conditions, the number of doctor visits in the last 12 months, and delaying or not receiving conventional care because of cost.
“These statistics confirm that CAM practices are a frequently used component of Americans’ health care regimens, and reinforce the need for rigorous research to study the safety and effectiveness of these therapies,” says Josephine P. Briggs, MD, director of NCCAM. “The data also point out the need for patients and health care providers to openly discuss CAM use to ensure safe and coordinated care.”
Most Used CAM Therapies in 2007
Therapy Adults, 18 and up Children under 18
Nonvitamin, nonmineral, 17.7 percent 3.9 percent
natural products such as
fish oil/omega 3/DHA,
glucosamine, echinacea
and ginseng
Deep breathing exercises 12.7 percent 2.2 percent
Meditation 9.4 percent
Chiropractic or 8.6 percent 2.8 percent
osteopathic manipulation
Massage 8.3 percent
Yoga 6.1 percent 2.1 percent
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Relieve the Stress
1. Your NEW Montra: "YESSS! I'm worth it!"
Many women find that time isn't the major factor stopping them from visiting their therapist for massage on a regular schedule. It's sad to say, but many of us are so accustomed to putting the needs of our family, friends, others in front of our own, that we don't realize just how necessary it is to schedule the "me time".
Having been said before, it bears repeating again: you cannot take care of your friends and family unless you take care of yourself. You can't adequately address the needs of others, if you are stressed out, distracted by the effects of loss of sleep or suffering from chronic pain.
Know that when you are feeling overwhelmed or depleted, that a good massage session will help to energize and revitalize you entire body, mind and spirit, opening you up to be ready to tackle the challenges of everyday life.
2. Get into the Club
At 'Massage with Style' there are many options, that allow you to prepay for your regular sessions. Many people will shy away from this type of commitment, but consider it an investment in your health.
Generally, signing up for a membership allows you to enjoy massage at a discounted rate. Then all you need to do is login to Schedulicity.com and make that appointment at your convenience.
3. The right soul-therapist
When looking for that special therapist it is quite the same as finding a doctor and the perfect babysitter. Learn to share what is going on when you come in for a Massage appointment. There are several techniques and modalities out there. One mobalitiy will not always be right for every need.
Besides the many varieties of massage, Swedish, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point, Prenatal, Hot Stone Sports and Medical, there are other practices that complement that of massage. Some of these practices are Aromatherapy, Reflexology, and Reiki, to name a few of which are offered at 'Massage with Style'.
Massage with Style is a valuable part of your health maintenance plan. During your session we will be able to determine where stress and anxiety are manifesting in your body and will create the right plan to address your specific needs.
Letting the therapist become familiar with your aches and pains also with help she to make appropriate recommendations if, for example, you are experiencing a condition which is out of their realm of expertise.
4. Watch your progress
Once you have gotten yourself into that regular practice of getting that weekly, bi-weekly or monthly massage, you will be able to see the progress that is a result of regular massage sessions. People that visit the massage therapist only once or twice a year will have difficulty seeing the results because they are not on a regular program and they can't see the difference from one session to the next.
Massage therapist are required to keep detailed SOAP notes, which document findings after each session. These notes will allow the therapist to accurately check on areas of concern, therefore, making the session more tailored to your needs appropriately. This is especially helpful when dealing with chronic pain.
5. The dip after
With massage you feel relaxed and rejuvenated, but often may complain of feeling sore and tired afterwards. This soreness can at times feel like the day after an intense workout. The soreness is because your muscles were pushed just a bit beyond their everyday routine. This soreness should not last longer than a day or two.
Ways to minimize this soreness is easy. Help rehydrate your muscles and flush the toxins by drinking lots of water in the following days after your massage.
Take it easy after you massage and let your body embrace the benefits, you will be more comfortable when you return the following month.
Many women find that time isn't the major factor stopping them from visiting their therapist for massage on a regular schedule. It's sad to say, but many of us are so accustomed to putting the needs of our family, friends, others in front of our own, that we don't realize just how necessary it is to schedule the "me time".
Having been said before, it bears repeating again: you cannot take care of your friends and family unless you take care of yourself. You can't adequately address the needs of others, if you are stressed out, distracted by the effects of loss of sleep or suffering from chronic pain.
Know that when you are feeling overwhelmed or depleted, that a good massage session will help to energize and revitalize you entire body, mind and spirit, opening you up to be ready to tackle the challenges of everyday life.
2. Get into the Club
At 'Massage with Style' there are many options, that allow you to prepay for your regular sessions. Many people will shy away from this type of commitment, but consider it an investment in your health.
Generally, signing up for a membership allows you to enjoy massage at a discounted rate. Then all you need to do is login to Schedulicity.com and make that appointment at your convenience.
3. The right soul-therapist
When looking for that special therapist it is quite the same as finding a doctor and the perfect babysitter. Learn to share what is going on when you come in for a Massage appointment. There are several techniques and modalities out there. One mobalitiy will not always be right for every need.
Besides the many varieties of massage, Swedish, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point, Prenatal, Hot Stone Sports and Medical, there are other practices that complement that of massage. Some of these practices are Aromatherapy, Reflexology, and Reiki, to name a few of which are offered at 'Massage with Style'.
Massage with Style is a valuable part of your health maintenance plan. During your session we will be able to determine where stress and anxiety are manifesting in your body and will create the right plan to address your specific needs.
Letting the therapist become familiar with your aches and pains also with help she to make appropriate recommendations if, for example, you are experiencing a condition which is out of their realm of expertise.
4. Watch your progress
Once you have gotten yourself into that regular practice of getting that weekly, bi-weekly or monthly massage, you will be able to see the progress that is a result of regular massage sessions. People that visit the massage therapist only once or twice a year will have difficulty seeing the results because they are not on a regular program and they can't see the difference from one session to the next.
Massage therapist are required to keep detailed SOAP notes, which document findings after each session. These notes will allow the therapist to accurately check on areas of concern, therefore, making the session more tailored to your needs appropriately. This is especially helpful when dealing with chronic pain.
5. The dip after
With massage you feel relaxed and rejuvenated, but often may complain of feeling sore and tired afterwards. This soreness can at times feel like the day after an intense workout. The soreness is because your muscles were pushed just a bit beyond their everyday routine. This soreness should not last longer than a day or two.
Ways to minimize this soreness is easy. Help rehydrate your muscles and flush the toxins by drinking lots of water in the following days after your massage.
Take it easy after you massage and let your body embrace the benefits, you will be more comfortable when you return the following month.
What Impact Can Reflexology Have on Our Lives?
Reflexology Research and Quality of Life
Researchshows that reflexology improves quality of life for individuals of various ages and those with a variety of disorders. As increasing numbers of individuals participate in health seeking activities, such research draws attention to reflexology for inclusion in a healthy lifestyle.
Recent research (see below) demonstrates that for those with Parkinson's Disease, cancer patients and pre-menopausal women, reflexology improves quality of life. These studies follow in the footsteps of previous research which demonstrated improved quality of life for: cancer patients (3 studies); hospice (2 studies); senior citizens (cobblestone mat walking); aggressive children (mainstreaming to regular classroom); constipation / encopresis in children; hypertension (3 studies) and stroke patients.
Researchers form the Department of Nursing at Songwon University in Korea studied what happened when premenopausal women applied "self reflexology" three times a week for six weeks. They compared the results to 29 women who did not. "The results showed that self-foot reflexology was effective in reducing perceived stress and fatigue and helped blood circulation in pre-menopausal middle-aged women. Conclusion: Self-foot reflexology may be an effective nursing intervention in reducing perceived stress and fatigue and in improving blood circulation." Jang SH, Kim KH., "Effects of self-foot reflexology on stress, fatigue and blood circulation in premenopausal middle-aged women," Journal of Korean Academic Nurs ing 2009 Oct;39(5):662- 72.J, Department of Nursing, Songwon College, Korea.
Researchers at the Nursing Department of Bedfordshire University in England, "explored whether reflexology could improve or sustain the wellbeing of people with Parkinson's Disease [PD] using the PDQ39 wellbeing tool designed specifically for use with people with PD. The treatment protocol involved giving 8 therapy sessions (over 20 weeks) to 16 people with varying degrees of PD in a cross-over design to enable a longitudinal survey of impact. Whilst the results reþected the progressive nature of PD deterioration over time there was an improvement in wellbeing over the active therapy phase. These results suggest that continuous two- three weekly reflexology may limit further deterioration or maintain improvement of wellbeing. A further study is indicated to study this hypothesis." Johns, Christopher, Blake, Debbie, Sinclair, Alan, "Can reflexology maintain or improve the well- being or people with Parkinson's Disease?" Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice , Nov. 2009
In a study of cancer patients following breast surgery, researchers at Exeter University of England assigned 183 women randomly to one of three groups: SIS (self-initiated support), SIS plus reflexology, or SIS plus scalp massage. The women received eight weekly reflexology or scalp massage sessions starting six weeks after breast surgery. Two weeks after sessions stopped, researchers measured quality of life using: Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy with secondary outcome measures of Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Mood Rating Scale (MRS). Researchers found that "When compared to SIS, reflexology and (scalp) massage have statistically signiÞcant, and, for reflexology, clinically worthwhile, effects on QofL (Quality of Life) following surgery for early breast carcinoma. " Sharp DM et al, "A randomised, controlled trial of the psychological effects of reflexology in early breast cancer," European Journal of Cancer , 11/13/09
The is a reprint from a newsletter published by Kevin and Barbara Kunz. Both Kevin and Barbara are leaders in Research and Education of Reflexology for Professional and Client alike.
Researchshows that reflexology improves quality of life for individuals of various ages and those with a variety of disorders. As increasing numbers of individuals participate in health seeking activities, such research draws attention to reflexology for inclusion in a healthy lifestyle.
Recent research (see below) demonstrates that for those with Parkinson's Disease, cancer patients and pre-menopausal women, reflexology improves quality of life. These studies follow in the footsteps of previous research which demonstrated improved quality of life for: cancer patients (3 studies); hospice (2 studies); senior citizens (cobblestone mat walking); aggressive children (mainstreaming to regular classroom); constipation / encopresis in children; hypertension (3 studies) and stroke patients.
Researchers form the Department of Nursing at Songwon University in Korea studied what happened when premenopausal women applied "self reflexology" three times a week for six weeks. They compared the results to 29 women who did not. "The results showed that self-foot reflexology was effective in reducing perceived stress and fatigue and helped blood circulation in pre-menopausal middle-aged women. Conclusion: Self-foot reflexology may be an effective nursing intervention in reducing perceived stress and fatigue and in improving blood circulation." Jang SH, Kim KH., "Effects of self-foot reflexology on stress, fatigue and blood circulation in premenopausal middle-aged women," Journal of Korean Academic Nurs ing 2009 Oct;39(5):662- 72.J, Department of Nursing, Songwon College, Korea.
Researchers at the Nursing Department of Bedfordshire University in England, "explored whether reflexology could improve or sustain the wellbeing of people with Parkinson's Disease [PD] using the PDQ39 wellbeing tool designed specifically for use with people with PD. The treatment protocol involved giving 8 therapy sessions (over 20 weeks) to 16 people with varying degrees of PD in a cross-over design to enable a longitudinal survey of impact. Whilst the results reþected the progressive nature of PD deterioration over time there was an improvement in wellbeing over the active therapy phase. These results suggest that continuous two- three weekly reflexology may limit further deterioration or maintain improvement of wellbeing. A further study is indicated to study this hypothesis." Johns, Christopher, Blake, Debbie, Sinclair, Alan, "Can reflexology maintain or improve the well- being or people with Parkinson's Disease?" Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice , Nov. 2009
In a study of cancer patients following breast surgery, researchers at Exeter University of England assigned 183 women randomly to one of three groups: SIS (self-initiated support), SIS plus reflexology, or SIS plus scalp massage. The women received eight weekly reflexology or scalp massage sessions starting six weeks after breast surgery. Two weeks after sessions stopped, researchers measured quality of life using: Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy with secondary outcome measures of Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Mood Rating Scale (MRS). Researchers found that "When compared to SIS, reflexology and (scalp) massage have statistically signiÞcant, and, for reflexology, clinically worthwhile, effects on QofL (Quality of Life) following surgery for early breast carcinoma. " Sharp DM et al, "A randomised, controlled trial of the psychological effects of reflexology in early breast cancer," European Journal of Cancer , 11/13/09
The is a reprint from a newsletter published by Kevin and Barbara Kunz. Both Kevin and Barbara are leaders in Research and Education of Reflexology for Professional and Client alike.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Everyone Win!
That is RIGHT!!!
Everyone is a Winner in my office. For every new person that any of my clients refer, that makes an appointment, I will give you and your friend a discount of $5.00 off your appointments.
What it looks like - New Client $5.00 off appointment
Est.Client $5.00 off next appointment
There is a limit of only 1 discount per appointment. BUT!!! with enough friends, you could get the discount with every appointment.
Start today by going through you address book and sending those friends in for that much needed stress relief!!
For appointment:
ONLINE SCHEDULE: www.schedulicity.com
Phone: 360 844-5973
email: liz@massagewithstyle.com
Liz @ Massage with Style
Elizabeth A Stiles, BS, LMP, MR
WA Lic: #MA00018891
Everyone is a Winner in my office. For every new person that any of my clients refer, that makes an appointment, I will give you and your friend a discount of $5.00 off your appointments.
What it looks like - New Client $5.00 off appointment
Est.Client $5.00 off next appointment
There is a limit of only 1 discount per appointment. BUT!!! with enough friends, you could get the discount with every appointment.
Start today by going through you address book and sending those friends in for that much needed stress relief!!
For appointment:
ONLINE SCHEDULE: www.schedulicity.com
Phone: 360 844-5973
email: liz@massagewithstyle.com
Liz @ Massage with Style
Elizabeth A Stiles, BS, LMP, MR
WA Lic: #MA00018891
Dr. Oz Declares Reiki his #1 Alternative Medicine Secret
I’m sure that most of you watched or heard about Dr. Oz doing a segment on his show about alternative medicine. Reiki practitioners all over the world celebrated on January 6th as Dr. Oz revealed his ultimate alternative medicine secrets for 2010 during his nationally broadcast talk show. Dr. Oz ranked Reiki as #1. He said, “Reiki is one of my favorites, we’ve been using it for years in the Oz family, and we swear by it.”
If you still don’t know who Dr. Oz is, he has a huge and devoted following thanks to his many appearances on the Oprah Show the past few years, and his wife, Lisa, is a Reiki Master. Dr. Oz is one of the leading cardiovascular surgeons in the United States, and the first to allow the use of Reiki during open-heart surgeries and heart transplant operations. Of those followed in case studies, heart patients did not experience the usual postoperative depression; bypass patients had no postoperative pain or leg weakness; and transplant patients experienced no organ rejection. Here is a clip from the show that day:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPj2uuiReds
Dr. Oz ended the show with: “Here are the three things I want you to remember from today's show: First off, try Reiki. Second, boost your metabolism. Third, check your blood pressure”. It has been exciting to see our local community and medical professionals embracing Reiki more and more every day. It won’t be long before Reiki is as main stream as acupuncture or other alternative wellness therapies. Having Reiki in your life is like having a personal first-aid kit at your fingertips.
Have questions or want to learn more, contact Liz at 'Massage with Style'. I have been as practicing Reiki Master/Teacher since 1996. I will be more than Happy to answer your questions or even make an appointment for a Reiki Session.
(360) 844-5973 email: liz@massagewithstyle.com Schedule an appointment: schedulicity.com
If you still don’t know who Dr. Oz is, he has a huge and devoted following thanks to his many appearances on the Oprah Show the past few years, and his wife, Lisa, is a Reiki Master. Dr. Oz is one of the leading cardiovascular surgeons in the United States, and the first to allow the use of Reiki during open-heart surgeries and heart transplant operations. Of those followed in case studies, heart patients did not experience the usual postoperative depression; bypass patients had no postoperative pain or leg weakness; and transplant patients experienced no organ rejection. Here is a clip from the show that day:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPj2uuiReds
Dr. Oz ended the show with: “Here are the three things I want you to remember from today's show: First off, try Reiki. Second, boost your metabolism. Third, check your blood pressure”. It has been exciting to see our local community and medical professionals embracing Reiki more and more every day. It won’t be long before Reiki is as main stream as acupuncture or other alternative wellness therapies. Having Reiki in your life is like having a personal first-aid kit at your fingertips.
Have questions or want to learn more, contact Liz at 'Massage with Style'. I have been as practicing Reiki Master/Teacher since 1996. I will be more than Happy to answer your questions or even make an appointment for a Reiki Session.
(360) 844-5973 email: liz@massagewithstyle.com Schedule an appointment: schedulicity.com
Monday, April 19, 2010
Massage--Good for What Ails You
Ask the average person what they think of when you say massage therapy and they most likely will mention getting sore or tight muscles rubbed, getting relaxed or reducing tension. These are probably the main reasons most people seek out massage treatments.
This issue is going to review the very broad scope of treatment that massage addresses every day. Many of these conditions may not directly apply to you, but you may know someone—a family member or friend—who is affected. At the very least, you should find it interesting to learn just how beneficial massage therapy is to all of us in our quest to lead a happy and healthy life.
The medical conditions that people find therapeutic massage can help include:
• allergies
• anxiety
• arthritis
• asthma & bronchitis
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• chronic & temporary pain
• circulatory problems
• depression
• digestive disorders
• headache, especially when due to tension
• insomnia
• myofascial pain (a condition of the tissue connecting the muscles)
• reduced range of motion
• sinusitis
• sports injuries
• stress
• TMJ (jaw joint dysfunction)
As interest in massage therapy grows, more studies are being conducted to verify the anecdotal results clients have reported for years.
As an example, a recent study supports current evidence that immune function is strengthened by massage therapy—in both healthy people as well as those who are fighting disease.
“ ‘In one study after another, research is suggesting that massage therapy has a positive impact on immune function,’ said Diane Zeitlin, research associate at the Center for Research in Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Kessler Medical Rehabilitation and Education Corporation, West Orange, N.J.
“ ‘An increase in white blood cells and natural killer-cell activity better prepares the body to fight off possible invading cells,’ said Zeitlin. ‘These cellular changes suggest the immune system benefited from the massages, and these findings fall in line with previous research.’ ”
In a study conducted by the Touch Research Institute (TRI) at the University of Miami on women who had been diagnosed with breast cancer, the women received regular massage therapy (three times a week for five weeks), with 80 percent showing improved immune function.
“ ‘These are the first studies that show an effect of massage therapy on an immune function test, which can support the use of massage therapy to alleviate stress, relax muscles and now possibly serve as an alternative medical practice,’ said Michael Ruff, Ph.D., research associate professor at Georgetown University Medical School.”
Another TRI study addressed fibromyalgia (a chronic condition characterized by muscular pain, aching, and/or stiffness and afflicting an estimated 3–6 million Americans). A portion of the study group received 30-minute massages twice a week for five weeks. The rheumatologists that evaluated the results determined that this group experienced decreases in pain, fatigue, stiffness and improvements in the quality of sleep.
If you are fortunate enough to have excellent health, consider what benefits massage can provide for you. What is becoming evident from the growing number of studies on massage benefits is that massage is helping people to enjoy more optimal physical functioning. And this in turn can lead to a better mental outlook.
The next time you hear someone say that massage is only a luxury, you’ll know that massage is really a tool that can help improve a body’s ability to regain and maintain proper function. Making you feel terrific is just a wonderful bonus!
© 2006 Massage Marketing. Used with permission. All rights reserved.
This issue is going to review the very broad scope of treatment that massage addresses every day. Many of these conditions may not directly apply to you, but you may know someone—a family member or friend—who is affected. At the very least, you should find it interesting to learn just how beneficial massage therapy is to all of us in our quest to lead a happy and healthy life.
The medical conditions that people find therapeutic massage can help include:
• allergies
• anxiety
• arthritis
• asthma & bronchitis
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• chronic & temporary pain
• circulatory problems
• depression
• digestive disorders
• headache, especially when due to tension
• insomnia
• myofascial pain (a condition of the tissue connecting the muscles)
• reduced range of motion
• sinusitis
• sports injuries
• stress
• TMJ (jaw joint dysfunction)
As interest in massage therapy grows, more studies are being conducted to verify the anecdotal results clients have reported for years.
As an example, a recent study supports current evidence that immune function is strengthened by massage therapy—in both healthy people as well as those who are fighting disease.
“ ‘In one study after another, research is suggesting that massage therapy has a positive impact on immune function,’ said Diane Zeitlin, research associate at the Center for Research in Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Kessler Medical Rehabilitation and Education Corporation, West Orange, N.J.
“ ‘An increase in white blood cells and natural killer-cell activity better prepares the body to fight off possible invading cells,’ said Zeitlin. ‘These cellular changes suggest the immune system benefited from the massages, and these findings fall in line with previous research.’ ”
In a study conducted by the Touch Research Institute (TRI) at the University of Miami on women who had been diagnosed with breast cancer, the women received regular massage therapy (three times a week for five weeks), with 80 percent showing improved immune function.
“ ‘These are the first studies that show an effect of massage therapy on an immune function test, which can support the use of massage therapy to alleviate stress, relax muscles and now possibly serve as an alternative medical practice,’ said Michael Ruff, Ph.D., research associate professor at Georgetown University Medical School.”
Another TRI study addressed fibromyalgia (a chronic condition characterized by muscular pain, aching, and/or stiffness and afflicting an estimated 3–6 million Americans). A portion of the study group received 30-minute massages twice a week for five weeks. The rheumatologists that evaluated the results determined that this group experienced decreases in pain, fatigue, stiffness and improvements in the quality of sleep.
If you are fortunate enough to have excellent health, consider what benefits massage can provide for you. What is becoming evident from the growing number of studies on massage benefits is that massage is helping people to enjoy more optimal physical functioning. And this in turn can lead to a better mental outlook.
The next time you hear someone say that massage is only a luxury, you’ll know that massage is really a tool that can help improve a body’s ability to regain and maintain proper function. Making you feel terrific is just a wonderful bonus!
© 2006 Massage Marketing. Used with permission. All rights reserved.
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