Massage therapists typically operate within a spa or travel with a massage table to homes and businesses based on the needs of their clientele. Their primary purpose is to provide relaxation, relieve fatigue, and alleviate discomfort through pressure point manipulation. Medical massage therapists work alongside doctors and registered nurses to treat patients suffering from aches and pains associated with illness and injury. In addition to promoting pain relief and relaxation, medical massage therapists work to improve function and increase healthy blood flow. They receive specialized training and work within clinics, hospitals, and spas with intensive therapeutic programs. One of the most popular areas of medical massage therapy application is pregnancy massage, although there are many other medical applications for a massage session as well.

Prenatal and Maternal Massage

During the first trimester and beyond, pregnant women experience various ailments like swelling, morning sickness, and heightened cortisol levels. After the third trimester, moms may experience postpartum period challenges like problems breastfeeding and postpartum depression. Massage therapy can help alleviate some of these symptoms and allow moms to focus on bonding with their newborns. The benefits of prenatal massage include reduced back pain, joint pain, edema, and anxiety. This form of therapy has also been shown to improve circulatory health, which increases soft tissue and muscle oxygenation. Discomfort management is vital for expectant and new mothers to protect the health and well-being of both mom and baby.

Some people struggle with relaxation in a clinical setting. Fluorescent lights, crowded waiting rooms, and surgical masks can be a source of anxiety. Thankfully, several spas offer prenatal massage services with therapists who are qualified to perform a postpartum or prenatal massage on postpartum or pregnant women. This alternative environment can be a soothing change of pace for expectant mothers who already spend considerable time in and out of clinics and medical centers.

One option for those seeking massage therapy in a more serene environment Endota Spa. Endota serves pregnant clients in a private, tranquil space with the added comfort of unique hip and joint supporting pillows. This attention to detail that traditional clinics sometimes lack can mean additional tension release throughout your therapy session. Rest assured that your appointment will include a professional consultation to ensure your therapist has a solid understanding of your specific needs. This type of accommodation allows therapists to customize your treatment to address your particular concerns.

Use of Medical Massage Therapy in Traditional Healthcare

The integration of alternative medicine in traditional healthcare is a growing practice. Due to its broad scope of applicability, more medical centers and hospitals are beginning to offer these treatments, often included in insurance coverage. Medical massage therapy is highly beneficial for patients who suffer from chronic pain associated with health conditions such as fibromyalgia, neuropathy, and high blood pressure. Those recovering from sports injuries, automobile accidents, and fall injuries may also find relief in accompanying their traditional treatment program with neuropathy treatment and massage therapy.

Careers in Medical Massage Therapy

Deciding to add massage therapy to your scope of practice or career path is a major opportunity for growth. However, for those interested in incorporating this specialized training into their career, it is crucial to acknowledge that authorizations differ from state to state. The Wilkes University webpage houses an interactive map to help you check your state’s requirements. Wilkes University is an accredited online degree program that prepares Wilkes nursing program graduates for national board certification licensing exams like the NCLEX-RN.

The reasons to consider massage therapy are numerous. Whether you’re an expecting mother, chronic pain sufferer, or an interested healthcare professional, additional informational resources are available—for example, through The American Massage Therapy Organization. This non-profit organization’s website is home to the Massage Therapy Journal, a publication focused on massage techniques, how massage applies to client conditions, and self-care tips. Keep in mind that every body is unique. Partnering with healthcare professionals and spas that offer customized therapy sessions can amplify the therapeutic benefits of massage.