Massage is almost universally thought to be a beneficial therapy. It is helpful not only physically but also emotionally, because it soothes the soul and the mind.

Massage has been called "the healing touch." Technically, massage means to manipulate the body's muscles and soft tissue for therapeutic purposes, typically by rubbing or kneading. The purpose is to stimulate nerves and increase blood flow, which relaxes muscles and relieves stress. Using the hands, therapists apply rhythmic pressure.

Massage therapy is a systematized way of rubbing or kneading the body's soft tissue to
make it feel better. Over the years and in different cultures, several distinct types of
massage have been developed. The most common type in the US is Swedish massage. Some of the many different types of massage are listed below:

• Swedish massage uses five basic techniques to relax muscles and tissues.
• Oriental massage is extremely gentle and aimed at restoring balance in the body.
• Shiatsu, a Japanese massage that means "finger pressure," is like acupressure    because it involves applying pressure to specific points on the body.
• Thai massage, an ancient form of body therapy from Thailand, uses movements from yoga and the meridians of traditional Chinese medicine.

How does massage work?

Massage therapy typically takes place in a warm, comfortable, softly lit room filled with soothing music. Usually you lie down on a soft, sheet-covered table, much like a doctor's treatment table. You will be partially covered with another sheet or large towel.

Therapists apply oil or lotion to their hands before beginning the massage. The therapist may focus on a single problem area or give a general all-body massage. Most massages last about one hour. Massage is available in places other than the office of a therapist. Spas, health clubs, and resorts often offer massage. In addition, many therapists will go to clients' homes to provide therapy sessions.

As the therapist's hands work the muscles, blood vessels dilate, increasing blood flow. Lymph circulation is stimulated as well. Oxygen supply increases and circulation throughout the body is improved. It has been estimated that oxygen capacity can
increase up to 15 percent after massage. Muscles are relaxed and weak muscles can be stimulated. Some say it is possible to stimulate nerves related to internal organs, improving blood flow to those organs.

Will it help?

Most people, whether they are sick or not, feel better after a massage. Massage is used to treat sports injuries and to rehabilitate injured muscles. It can also help relieve joint pain and stiffness. Perhaps of greatest importance, massage can relieve the tension and stress of everyday life.

Because stress affects the heart and blood vessels, massage can indirectly benefit heart patients. It can reduce headaches, backache, and insomnia. In fact, massage helps relieve most tension- related discomfort. It is also useful in treating high blood pressure, asthma, constipation, depression, and arthritis-like conditions. Although massage cannot cure disease, it can improve quality of life and well being for both patients and those who are well.

It is helpful for cancer patients to talk with their cancer care team about massage therapy before they begin. The doctor may have some guidelines for the massage therapist to follow, such as restricting the massage to certain areas of the body, or using
only gentle, stroking motions on other areas.

The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) offers a free service to help consumers locate qualified therapists in their area. It is available by calling 1-888-843-2682. They also offer a brochure called "Finding a Qualified Massage Therapist," which can either be obtained by calling the toll free number or by visiting their web site at www.amtamassage.org.