A Brief History of Massage

Massage is considered to be one of the oldest treatments used by man. Records dating back as far as 3,000 years were made by the Chinese, documenting its use. The ancient Hindus, Persians, and Egyptians also used forms of massage for many different ailments. Today massage is an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, or as an addition to alternative health programs.

Who Benefits From Massage?

There are many uses as well as techniques used in a massage. Massage can benefit those who suffer from stress, headache, low back (sciatica) neck and shoulder pain, depression, poor circulation, sports injuries or simply as a well deserved treat. (Gift certificates available).



What to Expect During Your Visit?

Your massage will take place in a warm, comfortable and private room. On your first visit, you will be asked to fill out an information form. The therapist will thoroughly go over this form with you and discuss your treatment plan.

If you are scheduled for a full body massage, you will be asked to fully undress and cover yourself with a large towel while the therapist is out of the room. (Although this is the traditional form of massage, the client ultimately decides what amount of clothing will make them most comfortable).

During the massage, you will remain discreetly covered all times. Using a light lotion, the therapist will work your head, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, back, legs and feet. You will not be touched on or near your genitals or breast area. Scented oil (aromatherapy) and relaxing music is optional.

What is Sports Massage?

Sports massage is a form of massage which utilizes specific strokes to help athletes obtain maximum performance and physical conditionin by increasing power, endurance, and mobility-both before and after an event or exercise. As an athlete, Michael understands the needs of his clients who are involved in sports.

Who Can benefit?

Sports massage is particularly beneficial when an athlete is in training for an event. Swimmers, weight lifters, runners, golfers, cyclists, skaters, dancers, tennis players, musicians, and boxers, as well as weekend athletes, benefit from sports massage.

How is sports massage administered?
Sports massage should be a regular part of every athlete's training program. Athletes have different massage needs at different times. There are three basic categories:

• Pre-Event: A quick treatment (rhythmic pumping is a supplement to warm up, boosts circulation and flexibility, and leaves muscles relaxed and ready for action. Pre-event massage can help prevent muscle and tendon injuries and reduce the strain and discomfort of training.
• Post-Event: After an event or rigorous training, post-event sports massage increases circulation to quicken the removal of fatigue, toxins, relieve muscles spasms, and prevent soreness. Post-event massage is used to assist athletes in recovery and in regaining their pre-event condition by relaxing tight, fatigued muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
• Training: Throughout training and rigorous regular athletic activity, massage helps prevent injuries. Areas of muscular stress can result from repetitive or stressful motion and are typically precursors to injury. Sports massage assists in relieving muscular stress thus preventing injuries which enables harder and more consistent training.





Michael has run the 1998 and 1999 Chicago Marathons as well as participated in several
Tri-Athelons.