With the high costs of healthcare, skyrocketing drug prices and the rampant opioid crisis, it’s no wonder that patients are looking for safer, lower-costs alternatives for pain management. Massage was once considered a luxurious indulgence afforded by few, with little focus on the therapeutic properties. Well, the tide has turned and massage therapy is now recognized as an effective treatment for painful conditions and other chronic health conditions. In addition to providing relief, a massage has the added benefits of relaxation and no adverse side effects.
If you would like to lend a healing touch to alleviate pain, then consider AIAM’s Massage Therapy Program. In one year, and after passing an exam, you can become a massage therapist. Upon completion of the program, you can work independently, in a clinical setting, at spa or in industry. Opportunities for massage therapists are plentiful with projected demand on the rise.
Here are five conditions that massage therapy can relieve:
Strained muscles
Muscle strain is a common condition caused by sports injuries, poor body mechanics, and improper lifting posture, to name just a few. It happens when a muscle is overstretched or even torn and most commonly occurs in the lower back, neck, shoulders and hamstrings. Massage therapy can help relax the muscle and increase blood flow to the area, which will facilitate healing.
Sciatica
The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back all the way down the leg and sciatica is usually cause by a herniated disk, bone spurs or spinal stenosis. This irritated nerve can cause mild to excruciating pain in the affected leg. Massage therapy can relieve the pressure of overly-tight muscles against the spinal column.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
You are probably familiar with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome because it typically results from heavy computer use or other repetitive motion. It is caused by “pinching” of the medial nerve of the arm, which results in tingling and numbness in the affected arm and hand. Massage therapy can release tight muscles that are pressing on the nerve, thus providing some relief.
Headaches
Tension headaches are oftentimes caused by tight neck, shoulder and upper back muscles — and stress. Massage therapy can help relax tight muscles and increase blood flow, which will help lessen the pain. An added benefit is that the massage session itself will induce a sense of calmness and serenity that will reduce stress.
Tendonitis
Tendons connect muscle to bone and when they become inflamed, it causes tendonitis. Common causes are overuse or injury which result in pain and restricted movement. Massage therapy will increase circulation to the sore tissues and will help relieve pain. It can also help loosen up the muscles to restore range of motion.
Exploring a Massage Therapy Career
If you are interested in a career where you can help people through a holistic approach that integrates the mind and body and focuses on addressing your patients’ conditions, massage therapy may be a great fit. AIAM’s Massage Therapy Program has been in operation since 1994 and is the largest school in Central Ohio. Contact us for more information about our Massage Therapy Program pages. Enroll today and be on the path to a rewarding career in healing. Financial assistance is available for qualified students.