The known benefits of massage therapy seem increase indefinitely, as doctors, scientists and therapists continue to study its effects. Massage therapy is one of the oldest forms of healing, and is based upon the simple power of human touch. There are many different forms of massage therapy, each bringing unique benefits to the patient. Massages may be performed upon an individual who is standing, sitting in a chair, or most commonly, laying upon a flat surface. The invention of various forms of massage therapy products now allow individual to self-administer massage therapy techniques.

One of the simplest benefits of massage therapy is its ability to evoke relaxation and relieve stress. Individuals who are fatigued, anxious or emotionally distressed can receive tremendous relief at the hands of even the most inexperienced massage therapist. The use of massage oils, creams or lotions can contribute to the relaxing benefits of massage therapy. Such products allow the massage therapists hands to move more freely across the skin, and in many cases contain medicinal ingredients that are absorbed into the skin. The pleasant scents of certain massage oils often add to the relaxing nature of the experience. We offer a full line of Biotone massage oils and creams, scented and unscented, which can significantly contribute to the benefits of massage therapy.

Another benefit of massage therapy is its ability to ease tension, stiffness and pain. When muscles become overworked, certain harmful waste products such as lactic acid may accumulate in the muscles and cause soreness. Massage therapy stimulates the muscles through direct pressure, improving circulation and thereby facilitating the elimination of these waste products.

Massage therapy benefits the lymphatic system as well. Massage therapy, by stimulating lymph nodes, boosts the circulatory and immune systems. This benefits blood pressure, circulation, muscle tone, digestion and even skin tone. By bringing fresh oxygen to various tissues of the muscle, skin and in some cases the organ, massage therapy benefits and contributes to the overall health of a patient.

The benefits of massage therapy include a psychological aspect as well. Human touch offers a sense of caring that no other form of expression can equal. By contributing to an overall sense of happiness and well-being, both the psychological and physical health of a massage patient are benefited.

While one can certainly gain results from a single session, the more profound benefits of massage therapy appear after a patient undergoes regular sessions over an extended period of time. Ideally, one should receive massage therapy every single day for the duration of one's life! However, few people can afford this intensity of care. But dont dispaire. Currently, there is a large number of massage therapy products available over-the-counter that allow you to self-administer certain techniques. The Theracane, for example, allows you to deeply massage virtually every part of your back with gentle, relaxed motions. Other examples include sophisticated motorized devices, such as the Pro Power massager, which offers a deep penetrating, therapeutic massage in a lightweight portable package. It is always wise to seek out advice from a licensed massage therapist or chiropractor before committing to a massage therapy product or procedure.