Massage is one of the oldest healing arts: Chinese records dating back 3,000 years document its use; the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians applied forms of massage for many ailments; and Hippocrates wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems. Today, the benefits of massage are varied and far-reaching. As an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, massage therapy has also proven beneficial for many chronic conditions, including low back pain, arthritis, bursitis, fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, immunity suppression, infertility, smoking cessation, depression, and more. And, as many millions will attest, massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living that can lead to disease and illness.

The Benefits Of Massage

• Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion.
• Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital stays.
• Ease medication dependence.
• Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow-the body's natural defense system.
• Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.
• Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts.
• Improve the condition of the body's largest organ-the skin.
• Increase joint flexibility.
• Lessen depression and anxiety.
• Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks.
• Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.
• Reduce postsurgery adhesions and swelling.
• Reduce spasms and cramping.
• Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.
• Release endorphins-amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller.
• Relieve migraine pain.

There's no denying the power of massage. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we seek it out (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen. Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into: Decreased anxiety, Enhanced sleep quality, Greater energy, Improved concentration, Increased circulation, Reduced fatigue. Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance massage provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.

In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects. Research shows that with massage:

• Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and less stiffness and pain.
• Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow.
• Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety.
• High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones.
• Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping.
• Preterm infants have improved weight gain.

Getting a massage can do you a world of good. And getting massage frequently can do even more. This is the beauty of massage. Taking part in this form of regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy you'll be and how youthful you'll remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for massage at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn't mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan, and work with your practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs.

ICAT Offers:
MEDICAL MASSAGE- 60/30 min. treatment and usually requires a series of treatments. Treatment of specific injuries and recovery. Helps to strengthen the muscles, and connective tissue to avoid re-injury.

SPORTS MASSAGE-Both pre and post event can last from 15 to 20 minutes and is given through your clothes.

PRE-EVENT: Helps you to prepare for a competitive event. It is brief and invigorating and is given within one hour before the event. Firm palm pressure into the belly of the muscle will warm and energize and aid in prevention of injury.

POST- EVENT: After the event when you've cooled down, massage will be a calming and relaxing experience with the goal of easing pain and soreness and reducing inflammation. Slow compression strokes will bring blood and oxygen to tense areas and help flush out metabolic waste products built up during heavy muscle use.

DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE- 90/60/30 min. treatment. Designed for athletes, chronic tension, overworked muscles. A deeper compression along with accupressure and breathing techniques that will help release trigger points. This will help muscles return to normal function and work more efficiently.

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE- 90/60/30 min. treatment. For relaxation and stress relief, improves circulation, flexibility and eases muscle tension and aches.

AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE- 90/60/30 min. treatment. Combines shiatsu, reflexology and therapeutic massage. A blend of essential oils that calm the nerves and awaken the mind, body and spirit.

HOT STONE MASSAGE- 75 min. treatment. Incorporated into the therapeutic massage. Placement and use of heated basalt stones that penetrate tense muscles. Experience overall relaxation and well being.

REFLEXOLOGY- 30 min. treatment. Pressure is applied to specific points on the feet. These points correlate with the internal body. This ancient technique will help to release blockages, improve circulation and restore balance to the body.

Call today to make an appointment and take advantage of our great prices.