Massage Therapy Overview

Therapeutic massage, manipulating body tissue with the hands, heals muscles and promotes better circulation. First used over 3,000 years ago by the Chinese, massage therapy was a mainstay among other ancient cultures, including the Greeks, Japanese, Egyptians, Romans and Arabs. A Swedish gymnastics instructor, Per Henrik Ling, developed modern massage therapy in the early 19th century. The Swedish method combined exercise with massage to treat joint and muscle pain. In the 1850s, George and Charles Taylor, two brothers who studied massage in Sweden, brought this method to the U.S. Today it is a common treatment technique.

Three types of hand movements are used by massage therapists. Stroking, which can be light or hard, is meant to relax muscles and improve circulation. Compression—including kneading, squeezing and friction—stretches muscles and tendons to facilitate movement. Percussion, repeatedly striking the massage point with the sides of the hands, improves circulation. Massage therapy is effective for patients who suffer a range of conditions from arthritis to paralysis. It is often used to relieve pain and reduce swelling.

Massage Therapists in Columbus

Shelly Mantle LMT Massage Therapist	send email
"I have been licensed for over 8 years, most of the clients that come to me come for deep tissue. The deep tissue work can be very beneficial. Neck strains, siatic nerve ..." See full profile	6100 Channingway Blvd Suite 207 B Columbus, Ohio 43232 (614) 327-5136
Pamela J Saviers LMT, LMC, CDT Massage Therapist	send email
""The Human Touch" is a mini-spa located within Michael's Salon. As a Licensed Massage Therapist, Licensed Managing Cosmetologist and Certified Dermagraphic Technician, I am proud to offer clients excellent service, a little ..." See full profile	Columbus, Ohio 43216
Cheri Clem LMT Massage Therapist	send email
"Helping and healing others is my passion. I am dedicated to meeting your expectations whether your are seeking pain relief, stress reduction or simply downtime to decompress. Your session will be tailored ..." See full profile	Columbus, Ohio 43085
Scott A Norris LMT Massage Therapist	send email
"Our approach to massage focuses on the body-mind relationship and specifically how massage enhances the healing process for those in psychotherapy and recovery work. For many involved in chemical and emotional recovery, ..." See full profile	Columbus, Ohio 43215

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