bodytalkmassage

Massage Therapy, Breathing, and Quality of Life

Wed, 01 May 2024 03:18:48 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

In efforts to evaluate the effects of massage therapy on improving quality of life in youth with cystic fibrosis, a research study was conducted. As a result, massage therapy is recommended for this sub-group. In addition, studies have also been performed for adults with cystic fibrosis, asthma, or other chronic lung disease, which also reported benefits of massage on improving quality of life.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS: “The potential benefits of massage therapy on individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) and other chronic pulmonary conditions include decreased pain, muscle tightness, and anxiety; improved mood, breathing, pulmonary function, muscle strength, sleep, relaxation, energy, ability to perform activities of daily living, and improved overall sense of well-being” (Best Evidence Statement, 2009).

POTENTIAL HARMS: One study described mild discomfort from deep tissue work.

For those of us with only mild impaired breathing, we can benefit from massage therapy. Massage therapy can improve breathing and posture by opening the chest area and aligning the structure of the rib cage for optimal lung function. In addition, when the parasympathetic nervous system responds to massage, breathing rate slows and becomes deep and regular; relaxing the muscles used for conscious breathing.

Best evidence statement (BESt). Cystic fibrosis - effects of massage therapy on quality of life. (2009). National Guideline Clearinghouse Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality, p.1–10 (10).

Relieve Pain & Anxiety with Massage

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 04:07:46 GMT

Studies prove the efficacy of massage therapy on anxiety and pain.

Massage therapy, as a form of musculoskeletal manipulation, has been shown to significantly reduce pain and anxiety levels in sufferers. A particular study highlighted the benefits of massage therapy for burn victims, indicating that health administrators and policymakers should consider it as a simple, cost-effective, and efficient non-pharmacological treatment to relieve pain and anxiety in burn patients (Miri et al, 2023).

If such treatment can profoundly affect patients enduring the severe pain of burns, it stands to reason that those suffering from anxiety, depression, and the accompanying body pain would also benefit from massage therapy. Regrettably, these conditions do not discriminate in choosing their victims; anyone may suffer. Therefore, massage therapy, being universally applicable, could have extensive benefits for all.

Reference:

Miri, S., Hosseini, S. J., Ghorbani Vajargah, P., Firooz, M., Takasi, P., Mollaei, A., Ramezani, S., Tolouei, M., Emami Zeydi, A., Osuji, J., Farzan, R., & Karkhah, S. (2023). Effects of massage therapy on pain and anxiety intensity in patients with burns: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Wound Journal, 20(6), 2440–2458. https://doi.org/10.1111/iwj.14089

The Power of Touch

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 19:58:11 GMT

Is Massage Therapy Right for Me?

Science is not sure what is happening in the body during a massage. Therapists work on muscles, bones, nerves, blood vessels, and more, each therapist with different techniques and quality of touch. What everyone agrees with is that there are not many risks to getting a massage. Studies found that babies who received massage were more social and easier to sooth. They slept better, lowered the risk of breathing problems and extended into children, teens and adulthood; especially those with chronic pain.

It's important to find the therapist that is just right for you. Massage involves talent that goes beyond training, certification or licensure. Some people are just gifted with touch. In addition to the therapist, there are techniques that work for some, but not all. Trial and error are often necessary to find the therapist that you feel the most comfortable with and gain the most results from.

Attention New Clients: mention this blog for half off your first visit when you purchase a package of three! We offer this because, it is hard to be discerning between therapists when the therapist is not provided the time to implement a treatment plan tailored to your body's unique needs.

Reference:

Doheny K. Massage Therapy: The Power of Touch. EBSCO Medical Review Board, ed. Health Library: Evidence-Based Information. Accessed April 24, 2024. https://search-ebscohost-com.proxy.heal-wa.org/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nup&AN=2009857977&site=eds-live&scope=site

Aroma Therapy, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Massage

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 17:16:59 GMT

Can massage therapy relieve my rheumatoid arthritis pain?

Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to painful joints, deformities, and disabilities, adversely affecting sleep quality and overall life quality. A study on the impact of aromatherapy massage on pain and sleep quality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis showed significant pain reduction from the baseline. Aromatherapy massage was found to be effective in enhancing sleep quality and alleviating pain.

Joan Weaver is an expert in a technique known as Aromatouch, which combines her massage expertise with aromatherapy to soothe the nervous system. If you're experiencing the severe effects of rheumatoid arthritis, Joan at Body Talk Medical Massage is the therapist to consult.

Furthermore, she can provide you with a personalized blend and instructions for incorporating aromatherapy into your self-care routine, helping you maintain pain relief and improved sleep.

Reference:

Pei-Yu Lu et al. (2023) The effects of self-aromatherapy massage on pain and sleep quality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized controlled trial. Vol. 24 (4) p.52-60. Pain Management Nursing. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmn.2023.02.009.

Massage and Athletic Performance

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 02:01:08 GMT

Can regular massage improve my athletic performance?

Massage therapy for athletes:

Having worked with a diverse range of athletes over the past 28 years, I've conducted what feels like a successful personal study on the impact of massage on athletic performance. In support of my observations, I've researched the topic and found numerous articles that back up my findings, though there are also a few that do not. I believe the conflicting results from these studies stem from uncontrolled variables such as the therapist's expertise, the massage techniques applied, the timing relative to workouts, and the athlete's health. For instance, if an athlete is dehydrated, no intervention can counteract the negative effects more than proper hydration.

Here's what I firmly believe: massage is effective! The athletes I've worked with experienced enhanced mobility, reduced scar tissue, decreased fluid retention, and a profound relaxation of muscle fibers. This led to reduced recovery times, allowing them to train more intensively and with shorter rest periods, which, in my view, equates to improved performance.

by Julie Brown

Headaches are Synonymous with Misery

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 23:36:41 GMT

OUCH!!!!! Not Again...

Do you feel like this?

"Trigger point massage is an effective and safe strategy for prophylactic treatment of CTTH (chronic tension-type headache)" (Karimi et al, 2021, p323)

Headaches can be debilitating and challenging to treat due to the numerous physiological and psychological factors involved. These can range from nutrient deficiencies or excesses, hormonal imbalances, structural anomalies, injuries, infections, to the most common cause: muscular imbalances. Often stemming from stress and muscle tension, massage therapy is considered an effective remedy.

Regardless of the cause, there are ways to assist. Whether it's through providing a moment of self-care and relaxation, releasing pressure points in tight muscles, enhancing circulation, encouraging hydration through the extra water consumed post-massage, or the strategic positioning on the treatment table, these methods can reduce headache pain and frequency. While NSAIDs like Ibuprofen can offer temporary relief, they may have long-term side effects, such as digestive issues and recurring pain once the medication wears off, that could outweigh the benefits.

Reference:
Karimi, Narges, Taberestani, Mohammad, Sharifi-Razavi, Athena. (2021). Efficacy of trigger point self-massage in chronic tension-type headache: an unmasked, randomized, non-inferiority trial. Neurology Asia. Vol 26 (2) p.323-331. 1823-6138

WE HAVE AN ANNOUNCEMENT!

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 02:43:15 GMT

What about weekends?

Indeed, we've listened to your feedback. Our doors are now open on Saturdays and Sundays. Simply submit a booking request online, and we'll either confirm your reservation or contact you to arrange a more suitable time.

Get a Head Start on Spring Cleaning by Reducing Your Pain Today!

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 00:34:25 GMT

In our Spring-Cleaning efforts, we reorganize, and REDUCE to cleaner, more efficient systems in our cupboards, closets, or maybe even our diets. Have you ever thought about putting some effort into REDUCING your body's pain? Self-care and massage are the best way to help you alleviate scar tissue and increase circulation, which creates a more efficient system too.

WHAT IS THAT MUSCLE?

Quadratus Lumborum (QL)
(check out the picture below)

This muscle is ALWAYS secondary to the real culprit of LOW BACK PAIN. It is helpful to follow the below advise and do this stretch. However, it is more important to get to the root cause by having a skilled practitioner, LIKE US, to determine which muscles are causing the QL to tighten and hurt. Massage therapy, coupled with self-care, is the best recipe to counteract the negative effects of sitting for long periods of time.

Body Talk Massage Latest News

Julie Brown
Now a full-time pre-med student and has very limited availability and will not be taking new clients. If you have seen Julie for long-term maintenance massage, corrective exercise or nutrition counseling, please contact her by text (253-212-6146) if there is no availability online.

However, not to fret, we have two skilled practitioners that are great replacements, in their own way.

Joan Weaver

Skillful at finding and retraining the muscles to relax, in a gentle way. Her techniques are effective and kind. She is not the therapist for you if you want to feel pain during your treatment, like in sports or deep tissue massage (or, if you are used to Julie's firm touch). Her specialty is Aroma-touch, which is most effective for migraine headaches or stress relief.

"Joan is really sweet and easy to talk to! She completely relieved all my stress. She is good at relaxing my muscles without deep pressure or pain. I wasn't used to it at first, but now I prefer it over deep tissue. I sleep the best I have in years!" Anne B.

AND

Wendie Riley

She holds twenty years of licensing and continued training that applies to her skillful techniques that have amazing results. Each massage is fully customizable to achieve your session goals and address any issues you may have on that given day. Just like Julie, you will never experience a routine but a tailored treatment that addresses your problem areas.

"Wendie is an amazing, knowledgeable, compassionate and thorough therapist. I felt at ease and welcomed from the time I stepped through the door. The intense pain in my joints and muscles was relieved. I felt relaxed and informed. I highly recommend going to Wendie!" Eugenia W.

FEEL BETTER when you DETOX YOUR LIFE!

julie@bodytalkmassage.com (Julie Brown) — Sat, 29 Aug 2020 04:51:00 GMT

5 ways to DETOX your life and MAKE ROOM FOR HAPPINESS.

Today, with the COVID shenanigans, it is more important that ever to detox our lives. Resiliency does not come easy to all of us. Patience is...what do they say? a virtue that also does not come easy for most even in the best of times. Being strong, staying positive, and being immune to anxiety is very difficult when the issues we are experiencing today are global. Everyone is affected in one way or another. Frankly, these are HARD times.

I have found a few things to help me cope. My business has been affected, my ability to grow my business and the lives of my awesome patients have all been changed in one way or another. We are all feeling this. Here are some tips that help me cope, detox and make room for happiness. Making adjustments and clearing out the garbage from my life is something that I have control over. Right now, we can at the very least, take control of our own selves and clear out the toxins, trash, and excess.

Number One: CLEAR OUT THE GARBAGE

Literally, throw stuff away. Go through your shelves, your closets, your file drawer, your pantry, the chair in the corner, the trunk, box, or anywhere else you throw things to be used at a later date. YOU DO NOT NEED IT! Does every item have a purpose right now? Ask yourself how it makes you feel when you hold it. If it gives you an emotional reaction because it evokes a memory, think about the memory (write it down to keep it forever), then gift the item to someone else or throw it away. It has had it's use. When you do, you leave room for new memories.

Also, throw away things that are well used. Like, makeup (it builds bacteria after so many months and that is just plain gross), sponges, scrub brushes, make-up brushes, rags, towels. There is no shortage of necessity items at the store.

Number Two: REPLACE THE ITEMS

If it's make-up that needs replacing, seek the advice of a professional Esthetician (like, *David Beltran at Body Talk Spa or my friend *Kathryn from Mary Kay Cosmetics) and only replace the necessity items. Focus more on SKINCARE rather than make-up to cover-up. Take care of your skin health so that you need less make-up. If you are quarantined, use Amazon to replace your cleaning supplies. Everyone should be purging clothes after so many years. Even if you fit into the same shirt you wore when you were a teenager, does not mean you should be wearing it. There are great used clothing stores you may be able to bring the items to or replace them with new clothes for you. Plato's Closet in Tacoma or South Center are great options to replace your worn out items.

Number Three: CLEAR OUT YOUR SCHEDULE

We can ALL do this! Many of us go to bed at night and realize that we did not accomplish everything we were supposed to do. Some things get put off for months, if not years. Procrastination is our own torture device. It haunts us when things are undone. I know it sounds simple but make a list. Santa Clause needs one, you do too. Make a list of your three priorities. Work on only those things. The others can wait. When you have accomplished those things, make another Threes List. Pin it up where you can see it. Tell your family and friends you are getting xyz done and seal the deal. Telling someone will help make you more accountable to finish.

For some, they don't get things finished because they DO TOO MUCH. If this is you, an important skill to learn is how to say NO. A friend of mine, *Stephanie Owen's wrote a wonderful little book called, The No Pro. I highly recommend it. You could be a No Pro too!

Number Four: DETOX NEGATIVE PEOPLE

Honestly, what better time to stay away from negative, toxic people in our lives. There is a pandemic going on people, you have a great excuse to stay away. If you are an introvert, you may be reveling in the chance to be socially irresponsible. Good for you. If you are an extrovert, I am truly sorry. If people make you feel bad, do not support you, do not show you love, just hide from them. This advise is not backed by a doctor, however, from my experience, if you lock out the negativity, it won't hurt you and it could very well make you happy.

Number Five: DETOX YOUR BODY

Okay, now this I am an expert at. This is probably the most important detox recommendation. If this box is checked, you feel better and have more energy to do the other detoxifying things I suggested. I highly recommend, first, that everyone cut out the sugar from our bodies. It is literally poison. Replace it with farm fresh fruits and vegetables or a glass of WATER. Your body will thank you.

After you detox from sugar and rehydrate, which we all should do, go see your doctor for a suggested detox solution for your body.

Sometimes detoxing is getting rid of the foods you are sensitive too first. For myself, when I did an IGG allergy panel (*Dr. Erik Gilbertson at Puget Sound Natural Medicine) my Naturopath recommended, I learned I had a very high sensitivity to Chocolate, SUGAR, wheat, and dairy. It has been three months and I feel great! I have less swelling (I retain less water), lost weight, got rid of cellulite, have more energy, AND my cholesterol went way down! I am now on antifungals, probiotics and digestive enzymes and I feel like I can only feel better from here. I highly recommend asking your doctor or seeing a Naturopathic doctor for details on what you can do to feel awesome with a detox.

Also, I would suggest getting regular massage. Massage therapy is a powerful detoxifying agent. It helps to improve mood and combat anxiety, boosts the body's filtration system (lymphatic), and can increase energy. I equate it to doing cardiovascular exercise that makes you sweat for an hour, but you do not sweat on the table. Your circulation will be increased and your toxins will be brought to the surface. For some people, this is the reason why they may feel ill after a massage. To help flush the toxins out, I recommend drinking a lot of water. I have turned people down with a scheduled massage when I find out they are inactive and severely dehydrated. I want to massage to be a benefit, not send them home feeling sick.

So now you have it. These are my recommendations on how to detox your life and make room for happiness.

*To get the contact information for any of my friends that I mentioned, please text or message me.

Best Regards and Bye For Now,

Julie Brown, L.M.T. at Body Talk, Inc.

Conquering Chronic Low Back Pain

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 03:46:09 GMT

Is low back pain keeping you from enjoying life?

Studies are proving more and more that massage is one of the best remedies for chronic pain. A study of women with chronic low back pain indicated that participants who received massage therapy had a greater decrease in pain intensity and disability than participants who received physical therapy.

There is not a one-size fits all when it comes to treatment of managing chronic pain. It is very important to go to a therapist that listens closely to the client's description of their pain and response to the techniques tried. We, at Body Talk, say we listen by touch for this reason. We pride ourselves in first listening above all else.

Patients should be told that they should walk out of the office with a minimum of 10% reduction in pain. Most of the clients see more like a 50% reduction. The acute aspect of the chronic pain should diminish immediately. The pain felt for years takes a journey in treatment to get to a maintenance level; meaning no pain in-between sessions. This is something that can be achieved if the patient is serious about getting better and commits to treatment.

Julie Brown, L.M.T. Tells a Story:

I have been a massage therapist since 1996. My brother finally came to see me after not being able to stand straight and was in too pain to even get from the car to the treatment room without severe discomfort. After one treatment, he was able to go to work the next day. He was sore but had immediate relief. The next visit, only a week later, the rest of his pain was nearly gone. When asked how he felt after the first treatment, he said, "Julie, you are good! I feel much better. You are more like a physical therapists, not a masseuse." Of course, I nodded and told him he should have been in a long time ago. The second time. He felt better but I encouraged him to see Dr. Erik Gilbertson, a Chiropractor and Naturopath in my office. He was reluctant but listened. As he left the office, I went to say goodbye and see how he felt. I asked if the adjustment helped. He said, "Did it help?! It more than helped. It was amazing! All my pain and discomfort is now completely gone. You two have a great system." I didn't have to see my brother again for the same injury. Everyone is different. For him, doing heavy construction on a daily basis, just one ab exercise is what threw him over the edge in a low back pain cycle. The pain was unbearable without treatment from a good therapist. We have numerous stories just like this.

Citations:

Kamali F, Panahi F, Ebrahimi S, Abbasi L. “Comparison between massage and routine physical therapy in women with sub-acute and chronic nonspecific low back pain.” J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2014;27(4):475-80.

Pain-Free Fall Fun!

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 04:59:08 GMT

Is joint pain bringing you down? Ease the pain with some simple changes.

Four things you can do to reduce joint pain:

Reduce Inflammation in Your Body. Arthritis releases inflammatory chemicals that attack joint tissue.

Stay away from inflammatory foods (dairy, sugar, saturated or trans fats, refined carbs, MSG, gluten, casein, Aspartame, and Alcohol). Add foods, such as Turmeric and Fatty Acids. Turmeric, the yellow spice common in Indian dishes, contains a chemical called Curcumin that may help to reduce arthritis pain. The secret is its anti-inflammatory properties.
Use ice on visible swelling in joints, otherwise stay warm (use heating pads or heated blankets).
Drink plenty of water. Your body will be taught to retain water if it's dehydrated.

Lose Weight to relieve the pressure from your joints. Your weight plays a big part on the amount of joint pain you feel.
Keep Moving to maintain flexibility in your joints. Exercise does more than help you lose weight; it helps reduce pain.
Get Regular Massages . According to the Arthritis Foundation , regular massaging of arthritic joints can help reduce pain and stiffness and improve your range of motion. Work with a physical therapist to learn self-massage, or schedule appointments with a massage therapist regularly.

Cited: https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis/arthritis-natural-relief; Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT on May 8, 2017 — Written by Mary Ellen Ellis; https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/tools-resources/?utm_source=display&utm_medium=search; https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/foods-to-avoid-limit/food-ingredients-and-inflammation-11.php

Why Cancer Patients Should Consider Massage Therapy

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 03:41:21 GMT

It's All About You...as it should be. Let us be part of your well journey.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The side effects of cancer and its treatment can include pain, fatigue, nausea, sleep problems and more.

As more consumers turn to massage therapy for health and medical reasons, research continues to support the use of massage therapy to help manage some of the side effects of cancer treatment

• According to research, massage therapy shows promise for reducing pain intensity/severity, fatigue and anxiety in cancer populations.

• Additional research indicates massage can improve mood and reduce depression in women with breast cancer.

• Two recent studies support the use of massage therapy in breast cancer patients. The research concludes that massage therapy can be beneficial for helping depression/mood disorders in cancer patients, as well as helping chemotherapy-related nausea.

(INFORMATION COURTESY OF THE MASSAGE THERAPY ASSOCIATION)

BTW, It's All About You

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 07:39:11 GMT

Fall in Love with Fall at Body Talk, Inc.

Our changing season. We wake up to frozen cars, sometimes rain, or sunny (but cool) days. Our children are back in school and our schedules get more stringent than our summer chill. We suffer thru the colds they bring home for us. We wear sweaters and coats, rain boots and scarfs. The leaves are yellow, orange or brown, and fall for us to crunch beneath our feet. Our furnaces are turned on and we desire to spend more time in bed. Hot drinks like Pumpkin Spice Latte are put on our to-do-lists and getting a massage to ease our cranky muscles becomes a necessity.

Yes, Fall is here! At Body Talk, we are embracing the season and have worked hard to create luxurious and comforting body treatments. Come visit us to bring the season in with comfort food for your skin.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Body Wrap : Pumpkin contains Vitamins A, C and E, and loaded with antioxidants that help fight sun damage and wrinkles. This gentle and hydrating body wrap is ideal for dehydrated and aging skin types. Relax while your body is exfoliated and enveloped in a warm pumpkin spice fragrance. This is an add-on treatment to our regular one hour massages. Enjoy the skin benefits, the comforting smells of fall and a relaxing massage. Does it get any better?

Hot Chocolate Body Scrub: the ultimate comfort food for our skin. Chocolate contains Vitamins A, B1, C, D and E, plus iron and calcium. It nourishes your body from the inside out (when you consume it) to replace moisture. For your skin, it is a powerful antioxidant that defends against sun damage and aging. This is a salt-based scrub that will leave you feeling comforted, and refreshed. Honestly, Ladies, is anything better than chocolate?

Make the most of the season by following these simple guidelines

keith@speedmobi.com (Keith Carpenter) — Fri, 04 Oct 2019 06:13:18 GMT

The new season is a great reason to make and keep resolutions. Whether it’s eating right or cleaning out the garage, here are some tips for making and keeping resolutions.

Make a list

Lists are great ways to stay on track. Write down some big things you want to accomplish and some smaller things, too.

Check the list regularly

Don’t forget to check in and see how you’re doing. Just because you don’t achieve the big goals right away doesn’t mean you’re not making progress.

Reward yourself

When you succeed in achieving a goal, be it a big one or a small one, make sure to pat yourself on the back.

Think positively

Positive thinking is a major factor in success. So instead of mulling over things that didn’t go quite right, remind yourself of things that did.

bodytalkmassage

Massage Therapy, Breathing, and Quality of Life

This is a subtitle for your new post

Relieve Pain & Anxiety with Massage

Studies prove the efficacy of massage therapy on anxiety and pain.

The Power of Touch

Is Massage Therapy Right for Me?

Aroma Therapy, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Massage

Can massage therapy relieve my rheumatoid arthritis pain?

Massage and Athletic Performance

Can regular massage improve my athletic performance?

Headaches are Synonymous with Misery

OUCH!!!!! Not Again...

WE HAVE AN ANNOUNCEMENT!

What about weekends?

Get a Head Start on Spring Cleaning by Reducing Your Pain Today!

WHAT IS THAT MUSCLE?

Quadratus Lumborum (QL) (check out the picture below)

FEEL BETTER when you DETOX YOUR LIFE!

5 ways to DETOX your life and MAKE ROOM FOR HAPPINESS.

Conquering Chronic Low Back Pain

Is low back pain keeping you from enjoying life?

Pain-Free Fall Fun!

Is joint pain bringing you down? Ease the pain with some simple changes.

Why Cancer Patients Should Consider Massage Therapy

It's All About You...as it should be. Let us be part of your well journey.

BTW, It's All About You

Fall in Love with Fall at Body Talk, Inc.

Make the most of the season by following these simple guidelines

Quadratus Lumborum (QL)
(check out the picture below)