When most people think of massage, they think of an indulgent experience that you undergo when you want to relax. This is certainly not incorrect. Massages can be very relaxing, and they do make you feel pampered. But they can do a lot more than that. Massages can help heal sore and injured muscles, and they can alleviate stress, which helps fight a huge array of ailments, from insomnia to poor digestion. The more you learn about massage and its benefits, the more amazing it becomes. Start learning by reading some of the many massage-related articles here on our website.
Physical therapy is necessary for anyone who has suffered an illness or injury and consequently experienced ongoing pain or difficulty moving. Physical therapy encourages a patient to work with a therapist to get stronger so their body can heal. Holistic physical therapy focuses on the overall wellness of the body and mind. This type of physical therapy utilizes natural healing techniques in addition to drugs and medical treatments. Here are four treatments that are often used for holistic physical therapy.
1. Herbal Supplements
Herbal supplements can be used as part of a holistic physical therapy regimen. Some people are skeptical of health supplements, but some natural remedies are very efficacious in the treatment of pain and stiffness. For instance, turmeric supplements can relieve joint pain. Many patients find that topical arnica creams offer pain relief as well. Your holistic physical therapist may prescribe supplements for you to try if they believe these substances will help you.
2. Massage
Massage is an important component of holistic physical therapy. Massage therapy can relieve pain caused by injuries or chronic illnesses. Deep tissue massage is often used to break up excess scar tissue that can cause pain and limited mobility. Massage therapy can also relieve stress by encouraging the body to release endorphins. Stress can lead to increased pain levels and slower healing. A holistic physical therapist recognizes the benefits of stress reduction and will tailor your treatment accordingly.
3. Stretches
Stretches are an integral part of any physical therapy regimen. Rest is a necessary part of the healing process. However, long periods of inactivity can lead to stiffness. It's important to work this stiffness out of your body gradually through gentle stretching. Stretching allows your body to gradually recover its flexibility. Your holistic physical therapist will prescribe and demonstrate stretches that will help you heal. They may even offer assisted stretching, a process during which the physical therapist manually manipulates their patient's body. Assisted stretching is often performed as part of a therapeutic massage.
4. Strengthening Exercises
Strength training isn't just for people who want to get bigger. It's also an important part of the healing process. During physical therapy, you will engage in resistance training. This exercise will strengthen the muscles around the injured part of your body. Stronger muscles will lend that area more stability, which can keep you from injuring yourself again in the future. Building your strength gradually, under the watchful eye of a physical therapist, can also help you safely return to your normal activities.
Share17 February 2021
