Acupuncture & Massage BLOG

THAI MASSAGE

Nuat phaen boran, as Thai massage is known in Thailand, translates as ancient or traditional massage and is also known as Thai ancient massage, traditional Thai massage, Thai yoga massage, and Thai bodywork. Originating from Ayurveda and tracing back over 2,500 years ago, it draws from reflexology, passive yoga therapy and acupressure.

A technique that involves stretching using range of motion and yoga like poses, Thai massage is based on the Ayurvedic concept of the three doshas (elements). According to Ayurveda, each individual is composed of one or a combination of the three doshas of vata (air-ether), pitta (fire-water) and kapha (earth-water). Practitioners treat each person according to the tridoshas as related to individual constitution.

As a person is brought into a yoga posture during massage, one or all of the doshas is activated. Each pose is guided by Ayurvedic principles of constitution. A recipient’s energy is balanced by applying postures of the opposite nature, which strengthen the weaker dosha(s). Fast-paced individuals with a vata type would be treated with a slow, gentle massage. Pitta types would have relaxing, nonvigorous massage and kapha types, more earth-based individuals, would receive energetic massage.

The massage follows the Sen energy lines on the body, similar to Chinese meridians and Indian nadis. Compression and stretches are applied along ten of the central Sen lines to open and balance the flow of energy, assist the body’s self-healing properties, adjust skeletal structure, and increase flexibility. This ancient massage is beneficial for all ages and can effectively treat degenerative conditions as well as enhance wellness. By releasing energy blockages, Thai massage can alleviate conditions including lower back pain, headaches and arthritis.

Through emphasis on breath, joint release and deep muscle stretching, Thai massage offers many of the same benefits as yoga. For more information about Thai massage or for information on Acupuncture & Massage College’s Massage Therapy certification program offering a specialization in Japanese Shiatsu, contact Dr. Richard Browne or Joe Calareso at (305) 595-9500.

thai massage

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”

TUI NA MASSAGE

Often used in conjunction with acupuncture and Chinese herbalism, tui na (“push and grasp”) Chinese therapeutic massage therapy is an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) originating in the Shang Dynasty, around 1700 B.C.

Based on the TCM theory of qi flow through the meridians, tui na incorporates acupressure to bring the body into balance, removes obstructions in energy pathways and promotes an increase in the body’s vital energy. Tui na both treats and prevents disease through eight basic methods: Palpating (mo), rejoining (jie), opposing (duan), lifting (ti), pressing (an), kneading (mo), pushing (tui), and holding (na). Similar to principles of acupuncture, tui na focuses on specific acupressure points, energy trigger points and muscles/joints surrounding the affected area.

Tui na plays a role in rehabilitation and health maintenance and is effective in the treatment of muscles, tendons and ligaments. Tui na can treat or complement the treatment of many conditions including internal disorders, chronic stress-related respiratory ailments, shoulder/back pain, musculoskeletal disorders, and joint displacement. Tui na techniques can improve blood circulation, enhance joint mobility, heal soft tissue injuries, and is effective in nerve regulation.

Involving work with anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, pathology and biomechanics, tui na is suited to a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, other health care environments, and offices. Tui na is subdivided into specialized treatment for orthopedics, geriatrics, chiropractic care, physical therapy, sports medicine, energy work, and massage therapy. Many martial arts schools also teach tui na for the treatment and management of injury and pain due to training.

Tui na’s focus on specific ailments, rather than a more generalized treatment, makes it an ideal alternative and/or extension to Swedish and other traditional western massage methods. For more information about tui na massage therapy or Acupuncture & Massage College’s Massage Therapy certificate program featuring a Japanese Shiatsu specialization, contact Dr. Richard Browne or Joe Calareso at (305) 595-9500.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”

AMMA MASSAGE, Copyright (c) 2007 Dr. Richard Browne.

Amma, (Japanese word for massage meaning “push-pull”) is an Asian bodywork therapy, one of the first formal methods of healing in Japan, based on the Chinese tradition of massage (anmo). Amma’s Taoist philosophy of healing dates back to the Chinese medical text, The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine (2697-2597 B.C.) Traditional amma massage is a medical therapy that includes diagnosis.

From the viewpoint of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), amma massage assesses flow and harmony of the five essential substances: qi (energy), jing (essence), shen (spirit), xue (blood), and jin-ye (body fluids). Amma massage holistically addresses the whole person through kata (choreographed movement) and pressure techniques. Amma techniques encompass pressing, stroking, stretching and percussive manipulations with thumbs, fingers, arms, elbows, knees, and feet on acupressure points along the body’s 14 meridians, or energy channels.

Amma either stimulates or sedates depending on individual constitution. The aim is to restore and promote health through correction of the imbalances of an individual’s qi or meridian system. Amma massage sessions may include herbal and exercise recommendations.

Amma massage therapy is effective in treatment of conditions including: Asthma/bronchitis, hypertension, arthritis, neuromuscular diseases, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, chronic pain, sprains, and muscle strain. Amma increases circulation, improves flexibility of joints and soft tissue, enhances injury healing, circulates and drains lymphatic fluid, and strengthens the immune system through preventative treatment. Amma is not a specific massage technique, but rather a comprehensive combination of all forms of massage.

Amma is an extremely flexible style of massage therapy suited to a wide variety of client conditions and environments. For more information about amma massage or the Acupuncture & Massage College’s Massage Therapy program featuring a Shiatsu specialization, contact Dr. Richard Browne at (305) 595-9500.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

Therapeutic massage has been integrated into many medical settings, health systems and complementary therapies for treatment of health conditions ranging from general stress to serious illnesses such as cancer. Therapeutic massage can reduce muscle strain, alleviate discomfort of ailments, restore balance to body/mind, rejuvenate, and maintain wellness.

As a complementary therapy, therapeutic massage can enhance health care by providing comfort, relaxation, a sense of well-being, and encourage the body’s healing process after surgery, illness or injuries. Therapeutic massage can be effective in alleviating medical condition symptoms of fibromyalgia, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, musculo-skeletal disorders, joint dysfunction, asthma/bronchitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and arthritis.

Physical effects of therapeutic massage for the elderly include increased circulation, release of muscle tension and initiation of the relaxation response. Increasing circulation reduces swelling caused by fluid retention, prevents pressure sores and improves tissue nutrition. Releasing muscle tension can reduce sleeping medication intake and improve mobility and balance coordination. Eliciting the relaxation response can improve appetite/digestion, ease breathing and reduce stress-related conditions (headache, asthma).

Therapeutic massage may incorporate techniques from: Swedish (muscle relaxation, body fluid circulation), medical (for cancer or other conditions), Shiatsu (immune system boost, increase of blood, oxygen and circulation for energy increase), geriatric (relaxation, mental clarity, flexibility, range of motion), deep tissue (reduce chronic muscle strain, tendonitis), and trigger point (chronic sensitive area muscle pain).

Benefits of therapeutic massage include: Reduced muscle tension/stiffness, faster healing of sprained ligaments, reduced blood pressure, improved posture, enhanced post operative rehabilitation, improved skin health/nourishment, decreased heart rate, and balance restoration. For more information please contact Dr. Richard Browne at (305) 595-9500.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”

MASSAGE FOR STRESS REDUCTION
Stress results in tense neck and shoulder muscles, leading to stiffness, headaches and more stress. Massage helps to relax the mind, body and spirit, providing time and space for self, and a feeling of peace, calm and well-being. It allows the nervous system to normalize itself, and may reduce many stress-related conditions, such as palpitations and raised blood pressure.
Prolonged periods of stress can subconsciously affect many systems of the body. Stress has been shown to aggravate, or even cause, such conditions as heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, memory loss and decreased immune dysfunction. Massage therapy is one of the best antidotes for stress. Massage boosts the body’s immune system, which can become compromised from extended periods of stress. Tension can build up in the muscles, causing a decrease in circulation and nutrient delivery to tissues.

With a therapeutic massage, stress can be significantly reduced. This, in turn, will increase energy and improve life outlook. When sustained stress is experienced daily, the brain responds in a manner known as “fight or flight”. This signals the sympathetic nervous system, which is controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain. Muscles tighten in our neck, shoulders and back, blood vessels constrict, eyes dilate, large amounts of energy are expended as the adrenal glands excrete hormones.
Massage breaks this tension by triggering the parasympathetic nervous system (the body’s way of conserving and restoring energy). Stretching and kneading releases tight muscles and natural endorphins. This results in decreased pain, decreased heart rate and a sense of calm. Massage, when combined with traditional medical treatments, can reduce stress and promote healing in people with certain health conditions.
Massage and bodywork techniques are therapeutic in addressing chronic muscle and soft tissue strain patterns created by stress and aligns the muscles and soft tissues of the body by using a combination of specialized and advanced massage techniques. Some techniques may include: Functional muscle assessment (visual, kinesthetic, palpation), myofascial release, neuromuscular, deep tissue massage techniques, structural balancing (positioning and mobilizing), and external hot/cold applications. For more information contact Dr. Richard Browne at (305) 595-9500.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”

REIKI HEALING TECHNIQUE

Reiki, or “universal life force energy,” is a Japanese energy healing system, often categorized with massage therapy therapeutic techniques in many massage school programs offered at massage schools. Developed in the early 1900s, reiki principles are closely aligned with those of shiatsu massage therapy and massage training. Reiki is based on the main premise similar to that of shiatsu massage therapy; that we have a life force energy flowing through our bodies.

This energy flows along pathways, known in massage therapy training and massage therapy programs as meridians. Reiki channels universal life force energy, or Japanese ki, through the Reiki practitioner to the recipient. Like shiatsu massage therapy, reiki seeks to balance energy within the body. Similar to shiatsu massage therapy training taught in massage school programs, when this energy is out of balance in the body, or is depleted, then an individual becomes susceptible to physical and emotional ailments.

In a Reiki session, the practitioner places hands over key areas of a recipient’s body, with the intent to channel universal life force energy through his or her hands to the recipient to induce healing. Several massage therapy training programs instruct on how this hands-on touch can be combined with massage therapy techniques and visualization in a bodywork session for a powerful synergistic effect. The channeled reiki energy is effective in opening up meridians and improving energy imbalance, similar to the intent of shiatsu massage therapy acupressure techniques taught at massage schools which instruct on how to balance energy in the body.

Practitioner intent is an important aspect in the practice of reiki, and is closely related to the massage therapist’s focus on patient healing taught in shiatsu massage therapy training in massage therapy programs. The places where ki flow is restricted results in physical organs at these locations becoming restricted in their functioning. If these energy blockages are not eliminated, illness results. Reiki can be combined with conventional medical treatments without contraindications. Dr. Browne is a certified Reiki Master. He give Reiki treatments and Reiki Attunements both private and group classes for more information contact him at 305-595-9500.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”

SWEDISH MASSAGE BENEFICIAL IN TREATMENT OF KNEE OA

Swedish massage therapy reduces pain and improves joint flexibility in adults with osteoarthritis of the knee, according to a new study reported in the Dec. 11 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine.

The 68 study participants with x-rays confirming knee OA diagnosis were randomly assigned to an intervention massage therapy group or control group. The massage therapy group received twice-weekly hour-long massage therapy sessions in the first four weeks and once-weekly sessions in weeks five through eight. The control group received delayed massage during the last eight weeks of the 16-week trial.

The group receiving massage therapy demonstrated significant improvements in the WOMAC scores for pain, stiffness and physical functional disability. No significant changes were observed in the control group during weeks one through eight. During weeks nine through 16, the control group had similar benefits to those receiving the initial massage therapy. “We think that the primary role for massage therapy will be to reduce dependence on pharmacotherapy and to delay any functional decline rather than reverse the disease,” said senior investigator David L. Katz, M.D., director of Yale’s Prevention Research Center.

The authors noted that recent research has suggested benefits from acupuncture and adding massage therapy as an OA health care modality would provide an additional benefit. “So-called ‘alternative’ treatments like massage are most important when conventional treatments are far from ideal. Currently available non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are often not well tolerated by older adults with osteoarthritis,” said Katz.

OA is the most common chronic medical condition in the elderly population, affecting as many as 21 million Americans. For more information on TCM treatment modalities for osteoarthritis including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and massage therapy contact Dr. Richard Browne at (305) 595-9500. Acupuncture & Massage College offers a Masters degree program in Oriental Medicine and a Massage Therapy certificate program. For more information about TCM/Massage Therapy education, ask for Joe Calareso.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”

MASSAGE THERAPY CONSUMER USE INCREASING

More than 39 million Americans received a massage in the last year, according to an annual survey commissioned by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA). More than half (53 percent) who discussed massage with their healthcare providers say their doctor recommended they get massage therapy.

“Our latest survey shows that 40 percent have had a massage to relieve pain,” says Mary Beth Braun, president of the AMTA. “While we have seen a strong interest in massage therapy for health reasons from all age groups, there’s been a real increase in understanding of the value of massage among Generation Y (18- to 24-year-olds).”

According to the survey, 92 percent say they believe massage can be an effective way to relieve pain, while 48 percent have already had a massage to relieve pain. “Younger people are telling us that massage can be a valuable part of their personal health routine,” says Braun.

Among the survey results:
• Men and respondents 65 and older are especially likely to get massages for medical/healthcare reasons
• Women indicated massage therapy was their first choice when asked “what gave you the greatest relief from pain?” (24 percent versus 19 percent for men)
• Almost one out of three (32 percent) of Hispanic respondents chose massage therapy as their preferred choice of pain relief, and more than half (57 percent) of Hispanics have had a massage to relieve pain
• The number of people who indicated having their massage paid by an insurance company or a co-pay doubled from 5 percent to 10 percent this year

“As the medical community increasingly recognizes its benefits, and as more insurance companies begin to include it in their plans, massage will become a more common component of people’s health and wellness practice,” says Braun. For information about Acupuncture & Massage College’s Massage Therapy program featuring a Japanese Shiatsu specialization, call Joe Calareso at (305) 595-9500.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”

Shiatsu Massage
By Kelly burke

Shiatsu is a contemporary type of massage therapy with roots in oriental medicine. This treatment uses points that lie on invisible meridians which are pathways of energy between the surface of the body, and the organs; muscles and all other parts of the body. This energy within these 12 meridians is referred to as Qi. Qi is present in all living things. Illness can occur when the energy flow along one or more meridians is blocked or out of balance.
Shiatsu, directly translates into Shi (finger) and atsu (pressure), and has a goal of helping the body’s ability to heal itself and promote overall health. The pressing on the vital points opens the pathways for the body’s flow of Qi.
Touch is the essence of Shiatsu. Touch of any kind can be of different quality. It can range from aggressive and abusive to nurturing and intuitive. Shiatsu uses a caring touch to help us with self-healing. It also uses gentle stretching and manipulation techniques.
In contrast to Swedish massage, Shiatsu uses rhythmic and gradual pressure to the meridians. Sometimes light holding techniques will be used. Swedish therapy, on the other hand, uses long flowing hand movements to pull and knead the muscles. Both are excellent therapeutic methods, but Shiatsu’s focus on restoring the energy flow to the patient creates a more spiritual experience for both the patient and practitioner, therefore being a rewarding experience for both.
Though there is only one type of Shiatsu, there are several variations of it. Shiatsu’s beginnings can be traced back to ancient Japan, around 2000BC. It was established as Shiatsu by Tokujiro Namikoshi in 1912. He was only 7 years old at the time. He realized that by using his thumbs to press on his mothers ailing body he was able to relieve her stiffness and pain. He was able to cure his mother of rheumatism through his gentle touch.
Shiatsu has become a respectful alternative therapy in Western countries and is offered in many hospital settings. It is a safe and effective treatment. It can help to alleviate depression, anxiety, headaches, arthritis, cramped muscles, swollen joints, sleeplessness, and many other things. The pressure points lying on the meridians are palpated using fingers, knuckles, thumbs, palms, toes, or elbows. Light massage is done with these appendages to feel which points are soft and tender.
In Shiatsu physical touch is used to assess the distribution of Qi throughout the body and correct any imbalances. By stimulating the person’s immune system Shiatsu can treat the body as a whole and help to restore physical functions of the nervous and circulatory systems, musculoskeletal structures, and internal organs.
Whether your Qi has been disturbed through eternal trauma, such as injury, or internal trauma such as depression or stress, Shiatsu can help. This is when symptoms like aches and pains start to occur and we start to experience a state of disease. If the body is not performing efficiently, the system can turn inwards upon itself and deplete the body’s reserves of basic energy. From all viewpoints, this is unhealthy. For the patient, it would leave him less able to cope with future illnesses, or future situations which require energy if he is to survive. In time such depletion can lead him to the inability to cope with even the normal demands of life.

Kelly Burke is a student at the Acupuncture and Massage College. AMC is the oldest school of Massage Therapy that specializes in shiatsu. For mare information contact Joe Calareso the Admissions Director at 305-595-9500.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”

Shiatsu the Japanese art of massage.
By Showanna Butler

Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage therapy. It has been practiced in Japan for over 2000 years. Shiatsu was officially recognized as medical therapy in the mid 1950’s, but has been systemized during the 20th century.

Shiatsu means “finger pressure” in Japanese, “shi” meaning finger and “atsu” meaning pressure; which is also described as direct pressure. This massage usually lasts 45 minutes to an hour and is done on a mat on the floor fully clothed comfortably.

Before shiatsu massage takes place, the therapist takes a medical history exam, which involves knowing the client’s lifestyle, past illnesses, diet, and exercises habits. She/He also observes the client’s physical and emotional characteristics. After the medical history examination, the therapist touches certain areas to locate the client’s tension points to decide how he/she will lessen and restore energy flow.

In this particular method of massage therapy, the therapist uses fingers, thumbs, palms, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure to the body’s main energy pathways. In the Zen Shiatsu, they use their whole bodies to apply pressure.

Being maintenance of health, Shiatsu prevents diseases and illnesses. Also promotes health and healing by correcting imbalanced energy and releasing it through the body. This typical massage lowers the levels on adrenaline and other stress hormones. It is known that if a therapist is working on areas caused by emotional upset, the client may feel like crying, this is not unusual. The therapist will act compassionate and supportive.

Shiatsu massage also relieves pain from arthritis, back, neck, and shoulders. Other benefits are improvement in headaches, which usually takes about 4 to 8 treatments, depending on the intensity level. Others are insomnia, constipation, and nausea. Overall, Shiatsu treats over 250 acupoints in the body.

In conclusion, Shiatsu massage therapy is more than just a massage, it’s a way through life: stress and pain free!

Showanna Butler is a student at the Acupuncture and Massage College (AMC). AMC is one of the oldest Massage Schools in Florida to offer Shiatsu as its mainstay for its Massage Therapy program. For further information contact the Joe Calareso the Admission Director at 305-595-9500

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. It can be used as long as credit is attributed to the author by including the following section :

“Written by Rev. Dr. Richard Browne

http://www.amcollege.edu

http://www.acupuncturistmiami.com”