Let’s talk massage! Did you know that there are many different types of massage? Shiatsu is a form of massage, but not many people know what it is, why it’s beneficial and who is appropriate for it. Shiatsu is a combination of acupuncture and massage based on traditional Chinese medicine, with a 3000 year old history. Shiatsu means “finger pressure” -with the therapist using finger, thumb and palm pressure to acupoints to stimulate the body’s vital energy or “Qi” (pronouced chi). Shiatsu involves an assessment and questions about how you are sleeping, eating and eliminating. It is important to gain insight about what is happening inside your body prior
to a Shiatsu massage.
Unlike traditional massage, Shiatsu is performed through loose, comfortable clothing, which protects the skin while compression pressure is applied. A low table height is used to perform this massage while you are lying down. Other positions can be used if you are unable to lie down.
Although Shiatsu is used to treat a wide variety of conditions, pain is the most common use for this form of massage. It reaches underlying causes of pain, as well as addresses the symptoms. Shiatsu is unique in being able to affect emotional health as well as digestive and gynecololoical issues.
Shiatsu is calm and relaxing in nature, yet dynamic in effect. The body begins to readjust itself and healing begins to take place. Shiatsu may be more intense because it goes deeper into the body, deeper into tissues, and breathing becomes more physiological. This is helpful in connecting the mind and body through use of guided deep, slow breathing.
After a session of Shiatsu there is usually a feeling of being relaxed and energized. That feeling can last for couple of hours after a session. The overall effect of Shiatsu treatments helps to strengthen the immune system, tonify organs, and keep the “Qi” and blood flowing smoothly.
Physical Therapy Consultants now offers Shiatsu massage at our Ham Lake, Andover and St. Francis locations. Request an appointment online at: http://physicaltherapyptc.com/appointments/ or call 1-888-THERAPY to schedule an appointment.
Exclusive to this blog: Receive $20 off your next 60 minute massage. To redeem this offer, print the blog or show this article at the time of your appointment. Code: Save20BLOG. Offer not valid in conjunction with any other offers. Expires October 31st, 2018.
Jackie Geise, LPTA
Physical Therapist Assistant
Physical Therapy Consultants, Inc.
PTC_therapy September 26th, 2018
Posted In: General