The soothing activity of massage has been part of health therapy from at least 2700 BC in China. Archeologists say that there is evidence of its practice in ancient Egypt and records of its use were found in histories of old Rome and Greece. Traditional Indian medicine combines message with aromatic oils and spices. It’s no wonder that so many styles of massage have developed in so many different cultures over the centuries. The benefit of massage therapy extends to all sorts of disorders, helps stress in many forms and promotes a feeling of well-being.

Modern Therapy

Today’s medical experts have seen the benefit of massage therapy and given it their seal of approval. More than 70% of American hospitals now offer message therapy as part of it treatment of infant care, pregnancy, physical therapy, joint and muscle mobility, stress management, to improve patient comfort and for a variety of other reasons. Specialists in various disciplines now depend on the benefit of massage therapy to give good results for many complaints.

Massage therapy is used in hospitals to treat chronic pain and more than half use it in cases of cancer. It is a regular part of physical therapy for injured or physically-impaired patients to aid in improving mobility. Sixty-seven percent of hospitals even have therapy programs to reduce stress in their own staff members. The benefit of massage therapy extends to all age groups.

Current medical research reveals that those who experience the benefit of massage therapy include patients who have boosted their immune system, have significantly lowered blood pressure, have received comfort during withdrawal from drug and alcohol, have experienced improved pain management, and have found improvement for battle fatigue and combat depression. The benefit of massage therapy includes the contact with a person who is concerned with the patient’s well-being and comfort.

The benefit of massage therapy extends to the muscular, nervous, circulatory and immune systems. Massage therapy can be used in conjunction with other therapies like aromatherapy, reflexology, and acupressure.

Holistic medicine has long embraced the techniques of massage therapy and many other nature disciplines can enhance the benefit of massage therapy as a regular part of a program of well-being. Massage therapy has been used for thousands of years and, because it can be adapted to fit into every type of therapeutic program, the benefit of massage therapy will continue to be with us for centuries to come.