Fibromyalgia sufferers are in constant pain and discomfort and are desperate for relief. Deep tissue massage is one of the most effective therapies that has been proven to alleviate fibromyalgia symptoms in patients in Largo, Belleair and Indian Rocks Beach.Fibromyalgia comes from Greek and Latin words. Fibro means fibrous, myo means muscle and algos means pain. Fibromyalgia therefore means pain in fibrous tissues and muscles. The disease was recognized by the American Medical Association only in 1987. By 1990, the American College of Rheumatology identified the existence of 18 common tender points and at least six months of widespread body pain as the basis for diagnosis. In 1992, international recognition was achieved through the Copenhagen Declaration of international experts who formally established the various symptoms of fibromyalgia, including the 18 common tender points.The other symptoms of fibromyalgia are constant fatigue, migraines, tension headaches, blurred vision, painful menstrual periods, disrupted and non-restorative sleep, sleep apnea, intolerance of exercise, numbness or tingling, heart palpitations, impaired cognition, irritable bowels with bloating, gas, distention and pain, temperature sensitivity, restless legs and abnormalities in skin and fingernails.Although just recently acknowledged by mainstream medicine, fibromyalgia plagues some 6 million Americans and many millions more around the world. Eighty to ninety percent of sufferers are women.Fibromyalgia is considered as a biochemical imbalance with no known cause as yet, although heredity is seen as a factor. The imbalance includes decreased levels of nerve transmitters and amino acids such as Serotonin, Substance P, Endorphins, Enkephalins and Tryptophan. These are responsible for restorative sleep and pain alleviation. The lack of recuperative sleep and heightened perceptions of pain create a vicious cycle that develops into chronic pain. The cycle of pain and soft tissue spasms cause the muscles to constrict, limiting blood circulation and leading to congestion. This, in turn, leads to decreased oxygenation and nutritional uptake and decreased ability to expel metabolic waste, again leading to more pain. The lack of healing sleep also leads to a depletion of growth hormone which can only be manufactured by the body during deep sleep. This same hormone is needed for muscle maintenance and repair. With decreased growth hormones, the micro trauma experienced by pained muscle fibers and fascia remains unrepaired, adding more pain. Pain medication is usually prescribed for fibromyalgia. It is often insufficient, though. Constant pain remains and dependence and overdose are possible. Deep tissue massage, on the other hand, has been observed to deliver true relief and is the treatment of choice of majority of fibromyalgia sufferers. In fact, a study done in 1996 found that patients experienced a 38% decrease in their pain after only ten sessions of 30-minute massages. They also began to sleep better and longer. Regular long term massage therapy will result in even more relief.This is not surprising since the various problems described in fibromyalgia are the same problems addressed by deep tissue massage. It increases blood circulation, relieving congestion, increasing oxygenation and facilitating the flushing of metabolic waste. The massage also relieves the chronic headache associated with fibromyalgia. Furthermore, deep tissue massage has been known to trigger the production of Endorphins which are lacking in fibromyalgia patients.So if you have the symptoms of fibromyalgia, isn’t it about time you start taking care of it? It’s safe to start with deep tissue massage from a professionally trained massage therapist in Largo.Once your fibromyalgia has improved through deep tissue massage, you should try to start a fitness regimen. Consult a Largo fitness instructor who is familiar with the special needs of fibromyalgia patients. Don’t forget to include sports massage in your regimen. Ask for it from your deep tissue massage therapist in Largo 33771.

Massage may not be immediately associated with allergy relief but studies have shown that massage does help relieve the symptoms of allergies. So why not enjoy a good massage in Belleair, Indian Rocks Beach and Largo 33771 and banish your allergy discomforts at the same time?Allergies can be traced directly to a weakened immune system.  The immune system produces lymphocytes that protect the body from harmful invaders. Lymphocytes, in turn, produce antibodies to neutralize harmful substances brought in by such invaders. In a weakened immune system, benign substances are mistakenly identified as harmful and are attacked by antibodies. This causes the allergic reaction.The immune system is weakened by stress. Due to stress, the adrenal glands produce an oversupply of cortisol, called the stress hormone. This triggers the sympathetic nervous system to also produce an oversupply of epinephrine and norepinephrine, All these excess hormones reduce the effectiveness of the immune system.Stress also decreases levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). This is the neurotransmitter responsible for keeping air passageways open and preventing the brain from making an allergic response.Regular massage therapy has been proven to reduce stress and boost the immune system. Lymphatic drainage massage, specifically, can have a major impact in reducing allergic reactions.The lymphatic system is directly related to the immune system. The complex arrangement of ducts and vessels of the lymphatic system carry white blood cells and antibodies to all organs and tissues of the body. These white blood cells and antibodies are the immune system’s ammunition in combating infections. The lymphatic system, however, does not have a pump like the circulatory system which has the heart that ensures the constant flow of blood to all organs and tissues. In order to move the lymphatic fluid properly throughout the body, the lymphatic system relies on body movements which trigger the action of muscular units. This has to be aided by proper water intake. In other words, immobility as well as dehydration can cause stagnation in the lymphatic system. Other factors that could also weaken the lymphatic system are stress, fatigue, infection, cold temperatures, chemical or food additives, age and heredity. When the flow of the lymphatic fluid is clogged, toxins build up in the body.Lymphatic drainage massage involves the manual manipulation and stimulation of the lymph nodes in order to facilitate increased flow of the lymphatic fluid. This functions like a clean up of the lymphatic system, draining out harmful toxins and ultimately strengthening the immune system.A professionally trained and highly skilled therapist qualified to do lymphatic drainage massage will know how to feel for the body’s specific lymphatic rhythm and find its depth, direction and quality. Based on such information, the therapist then determines the current state of the lymphatic system’s circulation and the best techniques to employ for the drainage of stagnant lymphatic fluids. The main lymph nodes of the body are located in the neck, armpits and groin, and the appropriate massage techniques shall be applied for them. Very light pressure and long gentle strokes are used in lymphatic drainage massage, with rhythmic pumping directed toward the lymph nodes.Direct relief of hayfever symptoms can be achieved with lymphatic drainage massage on the face. Hayfever causes inflammation and clogging of the sinuses. Lymphatic drainage massage with light tapping of the sinuses can remove congestion. Ask for lymphatic drainage massage specifically from your therapist. Other massage therapies will also improve the function of your immune system, including deep tissue massage, sports massage, Swedish massage and hot stone massage. A professional massage therapist in in Belleair, Indian Rocks Beach and Largo 33771 should be familiar with any of these.

Studies show that seventy to eighty five percent of Americans experience back pain at some point in life. It is the usual culprit when people below the age of forty five have limited range of motion and need to curtail normal activity. It can be triggered by inactivity or too much activity or the wrong kind of movement. Standing or sitting for long periods can trigger it. In women, wearing high heels often becomes impossible. You can prevent and treat back pain, though, through massage therapy and this is easily accessible in Indian Rocks Beach, Belleair and Largo 33771.A study conducted at the Center for Integrative Medicine at the Encino-Tarzana Regional Medical Center in Los Angeles showed that seventy five percent of the participants who underwent therapeutic massage therapy for back pain benefited from it, exhibiting a higher efficacy than medication, self-care alone or other alternative pain treatments like acupuncture.The study involved 262 participants between the ages of 20 and 70 who suffered from persistent back pain. Many of them were taking pain medication but were not relieved by it. None of them had any serious disease. The group was randomly assigned to three sections. One section was given self-care materials, another was given acupuncture treatment, while a third was given therapeutic massage including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage and trigger point techniques.After ten weeks, the massage therapy section had experienced more pain relief and exhibited decreased disability compared to the other sections. After one year of treatment, the participants from the massage therapy section had used the least medication and still had better results compared to those who underwent acupuncture therapy.Another study by the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami showed that massage therapy decreased back pain, depression and anxiety while improving sleep among participants. It also increased their  range of motion and boosted their levels of serotonin and dopamine which reduce stress and facilitate the feeling of wellbeing.There is so much scientific research supporting findings on the legitimacy of massage therapy as a treatment for back pain that fifty-four percent of healthcare providers encourage their patients to add it to their medical treatment.You should make sure that the massage therapist you go to is professionally certified, though. Ask for credentials or check with the website of the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. Please remember that improper use of massage techniques by untrained or ill-trained practitioners can worsen your condition. Professional massage therapists will know what conditions are counter-indicated for massage therapy and will ethically refer you to the more appropriate specialists.Do not be surprised if your massage therapist asks you a lot of detailed questions. This is necessary to be able to accurately evaluate your condition. The therapist may then work not just on your back since back pain is sometimes referred pain from points in the neck or arms. Your therapist will find the trigger points and may use cross-fiber friction, stretching, muscle rotation and joint rotation. If the area is inflamed or swollen, though, the therapist will most probably ask you to rest and ice the area first at home.Also consult your massage therapist about proper stretching exercises you can do at home between massage sessions. This will further benefit your healing and recovery. It will also ease you faster into your normal range of motion and daily activity. Be sure to only work within the prescribed exercises, though.Get relief from your acute or chronic back pain with massage therapy, including deep tissue massage and sports massage. Go to a professional massage therapist in Indian Rocks Beach, Belleair and Largo 33771.

In the Summer 2009 online issue of Massage Envy Magazine, author Shelley Flannery lists eight full body benefits you can reap from regular massage sessions. With a reputable massage clinic right in Largo, there is nothing to stop anyone from availing of this in 33771, Indian Rocks Beach or Belleair.Fibromyalgia ReliefAccording to Flannery, the American College of Rheumatology defines fibromyalgia as a chronic condition characterized by muscle pain, fatigue and tenderness. They identify stress and lack of sleep as factors that can bring on or worsen the condition. They also identify massage as a means that has been found to relieve the stress of patients with fibromyalgia, while also easing their muscle pain, spasms and discomfort. The National Fibromyalgia Association has reported that some 40 percent of fibromyalgia patients have used massage in their treatment regimens, and that it has been found to be one of the most effective complementary treatments for the condition.Post-Surgical RecoveryFlannery states that massage helps patients recover from surgery by boosting blood circulation, relaxing their muscles, improving flexibility and enabling better joint movement. She cites the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals’ declaration that massage has been proven to be effective in promoting regeneration of tissues and reducing adhesions and swelling after surgery.Mood ElevationMassage does not only improve your mood but could also help in the treatment of depression and anxiety, according to Flannery. She mentions the findings of the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine that massage lowers the cortisol levels in the body by as much as 53 percent while increasing serotonin and dopamine. Cortisol is considered a stress hormone serotonin and dopamine are considered “feel-good” hormones.Headache HelpFlannery cites data from the National Headache Foundation saying that some 28 million people in the US are migraine sufferers. She says that stress and poor sleep trigger or worsen migraines. She then refers to the findings of a study published by the Annals of Behavioral Medicine saying that migraine sufferers experienced better sleep quality and had fewer episodes of pain after receiving massage therapy. The beneficial effects reportedly lasted even until three weeks after the massage sessions had stopped.Reducing Blood PressureSome 72 million Americans are hypertensive, according to Flannery, and this can progress to strokes or heart attacks. She cites the findings of a study published in the Biological Research for Nursing journal stating that ten minute back massages are better than plain relaxation in lowering the blood pressure of patients.Improving FlexibilityFlannery points out that massage stimulates the body to produce and retain the natural lubrication needed between the fibers of connective tissues, while working on those connective tissues, muscles, ligaments and tendons. This improves the body’s flexibility and increases range of motion.Back Pain ReliefFlannery says the findings of a study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine show that massage reduces the use of pain killers for back pain by as much as 36 percent.Carpal Tunnel Syndrome ImprovementFlannery says the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke describes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms as burning, tingling or numbness in the thumb, middle fingers and palm. She cites findings of a study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement saying that regular massage lessened the pain and other symptoms of patients and improved the strength of their grip.There are a variety of massage modalities to benefit from, among them deep tissue massage and sports massage. Your professionally trained massage therapist can advise you on the most appropriate massage modality for your needs if you go to the right massage clinic in Largo 33771, Indian Rocks Beach or Belleair.

A study has shown that acupressure massage can significantly improve dyspnoea or shortness of breath among patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This should be of great significance to families of patients with such a condition. They could seek the help of professional massage therapists from massage clinics in Largo 33771, Belleair and Indian Rocks Beach.The word dyspnoea is Latin and is rooted in the Greek words dyspnoia and dyspnoos, all meaning shortness of breath. The American Thoracic Society defines dyspnoea as a “subjective experience of breathing discomfort that consists of qualitatively distinct sensations that vary in intensity. The experience derives from interactions among multiple physiological, psychological, social, and environmental factors, and may induce secondary physiological and behavioral responses.”Members of the staff of four health institutions – the Jen Teh Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, in Miaoli, Taiwan; the Institute of Chinese Medical Science at Chinese Medical College, in Taichung, Taiwan; and the Institute of Health and Welfare Policy and the Institute of Clinical Nursing at National Yang-Ming Univiersity, in Taipei, Taiwan – conducted the study entitled “Effectiveness of acupressure in improving dyspnoea in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.” There were a total of 44 participants in the study, all of them suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Majority of the participants were male and the average age was 73. The participants were assigned randomly to one of two groups. The first group was the true acupressure massage group while the second group was the sham acupressure massage group. They were given five acupressure massage sessions a week for four weeks. Each of the 20 sessions lasted for 16 minutes.The true acupressure massage group received acupressure massage treatment in points corresponding to their specific complaint. These points were the Lung Transport (B13), Celestial Chimney (CV22), Great Hammer (GV14), Kidney Transport (B23) and Fish Border (L10).The sham acupressure massage group received acupressure massage treatment in points corresponding to the encouragement of better intestinal movement. These points were the Large Pile (Liv1), Shang Hill (Sp5) and Supreme White (Sp3).Participants were assessed at the beginning and at the end of the study. They were given a six minute walking distance test to evaluate how much they can tolerate activity. Their dyspnoea, fatigue and activity were measured with the use of the Dyspnoea Questionnaire-Modified (PFSDQ-M) and the Pulmonary Function Status. The level of their anxiety, on the other hand was measured using the State Anxiety Inventory.Before and after each acupressure massage session, the oxygen saturation of each participant was measured with the use of a pulse oximeter on the finger.Results showed that after the 20 acupressure massage treatments over four weeks, the participants from the true acupressure massage group experienced significantly reduced dyspnoea, significantly improved levels of fatigue, significantly lower levels of anxiety, and better tolerance of activity. After every acupressure massage session, the participants from the true acupressure massage group also showed significantly higher mean scores in oxygen saturation. This is reflective of better pulmonary function.Scores of the participants from the sham acupressure massage group paled in comparison.According to the researchers, “We found significantly greater improvements in patients receiving acupressure at true acupoints compared with those receiving acupressure at sham points. This improvement related to all the variables studied and suggests that people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease would benefit from acupressure at true acupoints.”If the patients can tolerate it, they would also benefit from other massage modalities such as deep tissue massage and sports massage given by the same professional massage therapists from massage clinics in Largo 33771, Belleair and Indian Rocks Beach.

Sports massage does not have to be reserved only for athletes and sports buffs. According to sports massage authority Wrio Russell, it can benefit everyone. Sports massage can, therefore, benefit all residents of Largo 33771, Belleair and Indian Rocks Beach.Wrio Russell is the founder director of the London School of Sports Massage and a practicing sports massage therapist, as well as a Reiki master teacher.In his article “Sports Massage – A Therapy for All,” Russell points out that sports massage is recognized by athletes around the world and even by the British Olympic Association medical committee but it does not have to be confined only to them. Sports massage could, actually, benefit anyone with problems related to soft tissue, whether these are acute, chronic or post-operative. He says that the techniques of sports massage are “actively and passively physical” and they enable self-motivated patients to participate in their respective treatments, thereby empowering them. Russell identifies the strokes of general massage as effleurage, friction and petrissage.He describes effleurage as the primary technique used for diagnosis and treatment in massage. The palms, fingers or even the arm is used in effleurage to make deep or superficial sweeping and probing strokes either lengthwise along muscles in the direction of the heart or in transverse across muscle fibers.Russell describes friction as a technique using the thumbs or the fingertips to apply deep pressure across muscles fibers where there is adhesion or the formation of scar tissue. The technique can be painful and the pain may be lessened with deep breathing by the patient.Petrissage, on the other hand, is, according to Russell, made up of muscle squeezing, kneading, rocking, shaking and percussion.Russell also mentions the neuromuscular technique or NMT which he says is quite similar to acupressure. This is what he refers to as a passive technique. According to Russell, NMT is used in conjunction with general massage. The area of the body with muscular tension is prepared with general massage. Deep yet subtle pressure is then applied for a maximum of 90 seconds on painful spots. This is followed by stretching. A series of such treatments will produce long term relief.Among the active techniques referred to by Russell are soft tissue release or STR, the muscle energy technique or MET and strain counter strain or SCS. Soft tissue release, according to Russell, was partly developed from traditional Thai massage and involves a combination of pressure and stretching. It is an effective method to break down soft tissue adhesions. The target muscle is first shortened and relaxed by the therapist by moving the appropriate joint. The palm, thumb or fist is then used to put deep pressure on the muscle adhesion while the therapist’s other hand is used to move the joint again so that the muscle fibers are stretched and the adhesion is pried apart. The stretching has to be done gently and subtly so as to avoid injury.Russell documents several cases wherein sports massage was used to relieve the pain of patients with neck and shoulder pain, whiplash, thoracic kyphosis, frozen shoulder and knee injury.In fact, he himself had benefited from sports massage therapy. Russell says he became seriously ill in 1999 and had to undergo surgery. After the operation, though, his back and left shoulder were “almost in a state of rigor mortis.” His sports massage therapist applied soft tissue release regularly for six months and he was restored to normal.Now that you know of the many benefits of sports massage, you could ask for it as an alternative to other massage therapies, such as deep tissue massage therapy, from your favorite professional massage clinic in Largo 33771, Belleair and Indian Rocks Beach.