Sunday, December 13, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Coming soon ~Infant Massage Course!
Infant Massage Parent Educator Certification
February 19 – 22, 2010 Pinellas County, Seminole, FL
Research shows and families confirm that babies who are massaged: ~sleep deeper and longer
~spend more time active and alert for learning
~have increased bonding and attachments to their parents
~are soothed of fussiness and relieved of gas and constipation
Infant Massage nurtures the baby and the family.
~ increases comfort and understanding
~fosters confidence
~supports responsive parenting, proving to be an effective tool for services for families across cultures
Adapted Infant Massage nurtures preemies and sensitive infants.
~provides comfort, state regulation, and bonding support
~has potential for relieving colic and irritability
Infant Massage USA Trainer
Helena Moses, MA, CEIM
tendernest@msn.com
A serene setting: Yoga4All
8824 Seminole Boulevard
Seminole FL, 33772
Registration/Inquiries
Helen Moses
407 822-0171
RNs OTs PTs Social Workers Home Visitors
Child LifeChildbirthEdDoulasLactationSp
Early Bird enrollment by January 19th, 2010
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Shoulder Pain and Frozen Shoulder
(Adhesive Capsulitis) Treatment
Prevention & Treatment Strategies for
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis).
(Summarized from: http://www.thestretchinghandbook.com/archives/shoulder-pain-frozen-shoulder.php)
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, also known as Adhesive Capsulitis, is a condition that affects the shoulder joint capsule and results in stiffness and loss of movement in the shoulder joint. It is different from rotator cuff injury or shoulder tendonitis in that frozen shoulder affects the joint capsule, where as the other two conditions affect the muscles and tendons of the shoulder joint.
Massage can be beneficial following any muscle injury. Massage to the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles will help to improve the blood flow to the area which aids healing, as well as breaking down any scar tissue which builds up, and easing muscle tension.
Anatomy of the Shoulder Joint
The shoulder joint is a truly remarkable creation. It's quite a complex formation of bones, muscles and tendons and provides a great range of motion for your arm. The only downside to this extensive range of motion is a lack of stability, which can make the shoulder joint vulnerable to injury.
The shoulder is made up of three bones, and the tendons of four muscles. (Remember, tendons attach muscle to bone.) The bones are called the "Scapula," the "Humerus" and the "Clavicle." Or, in layman's terms, the shoulder blade, the upper arm bone and the collarbone, respectively.
The four muscles which make up the shoulder joint are called, "Supraspinatus," "Infraspinatus," "Teres Minor" and "Subscapularis." It is the tendons of these muscles, which connect to the bones that help to move your arm.
Frozen shoulder occurs in the shoulder joint at the point where the humerus bone fits into the socket of the shoulder, (the glenohumeral joint). The supporting ligaments and surrounding capsule become inflamed causing stiffness and limited motion.
Causes
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, however in a number of cases, frozen shoulder occurs after another shoulder injury like rotator cuff tear, arthritis or shoulder surgery.
Also, poor posture can cause a shortening of the ligaments around the shoulder joint, which can lead to frozen shoulder. Other theories have suggested that hormonal and genetic conditions like diabetes and hyperthyroidism can also contribute to frozen shoulder.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of frozen shoulder are pain and stiffness. Pain usually takes the form of a persistent dull ache and stiffness prevents the full range of motion of the shoulder and upper arm. Patients are often unable to lift the arm above their head or rotate their arm inward.
The normal progression of frozen shoulder has been described as having three stages.
In stage one, (the freezing phase) the patient begins to develop mild pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. This stage can last from a few weeks to a few months.
In stage two, (the frozen phase) the stiffness remains but the pain begins to decline. This stage can last from a few months to nearly a year.
In stage three, (the thawing phase) the full range of movement begins to return to the shoulder joint. This stage can also last a few months.
Most sufferers of frozen shoulder will be fully recovered within 4 to 6 months but some cases have lasted for up to three years, although these are extremely rare.
Treatment
Frozen shoulder treatment primarily consists of pain relief and physical therapy techniques. Pain relief usually takes the form of anti-inflammatory medication and the aim here is to reduce the pain enough so that physical therapy can be initiated.
Two other forms of therapy should also be considered; heat and massage.
Heat is extremely good for increasing blood flow to a particular area. Heat lamps and hot water bottles are the most effective way to increase blood flow; while heat based creams are distant second choices.
Massage is one of the best ways to increase blood flow to an injured area, and of course the oxygen and nutrients that go with it. The other benefit of massage is that it helps to reduce the amount of scar tissue which is associated with all muscle, tendon and joint injuries.
Firstly, don't stop moving. Some doctors will often tell patients to keep the injured area still, and this is not always the best advice. Gentle movement will help to keep the blood flowing to the injured area. Of course, if pain is present, limit the amount of moving you do, but don't stop moving all together.
Next, specific stretching and strengthening exercises should be started to help loosen up the shoulder joint and speed up the recovery process. A full description of appropriate stretching and strengthening exercises are included in the next section.
Prevention
A ounce of Prevention is much better than a pound of Cure! Anything you can do to prevent an injury from occurring is worth it. The prevention of frozen shoulder and other shoulder injuries comes down the conditioning of the shoulder muscles, tendons and ligaments, which ultimately involves both stretching and strengthening of the shoulder joint.
Also, don't forget the common injury prevention techniques like, warming up properly and using a bit of old-fashioned common-sense. However, for the most part, stretching and strengthening are going to be your best defense against frozen shoulder. Even if you don't have a shoulder problem now, the following stretching and strengthening exercises could save you from a major headache in the future.
Firstly, below you'll find two good stretches for the shoulder area. Although both are quite basic stretches, please be careful. If you haven't been stretching your shoulder joint, or your shoulders are normally very stiff, these stretches will put quite a lot of stress on the muscles and tendons. Be sure to warm-up first, then gently and slowly is the best way to proceed.
In the stretch to the left, simply stand upright and clasp you hands behind your back. Keep your arms straight and slowly lift your hands upwards. Hold this stretch for about 15 to 20 seconds and then repeat it 3 to 4 times.
In the stretch to the right, place one arm across your body, keeping it parallel to the ground. Then slowly pull your elbow towards your body. As above hold this stretch for about 15 to 20 seconds and then repeat it 3 to 4 times.
Stretching is one of the most under-utilized techniques for improving athletic performance and getting rid of those annoying sports injuries. Don't make the mistake of thinking that something as simple as stretching won't be effective
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Friday, October 23, 2009
It's National Massage Therapy Awareness Week
It's National Massage Therapy Awareness Week® (NMTAW), Oct. 25-31. Please remember all that these undervalued health care providers do for you. There is a real struggle for respect in this industry, not just among the public view but within the ...health care profession as well. Please have a look at this article by the AMTA about the benefits of therapeutic massage. It needs to part of your regular health & wellness maintenance! ♥ Read More at http://www.amtamassage.org/news/102309NMTAW.html
There once was a time in the health care industry that chiropractors did not have much respect. Their work was not understood and the attitude of most doctors was that these professionals were not legitimate health care providers. It's been a long struggle but the chiropractic field has gained acceptance and respect for the work they do. The same battle is currently underway with the massage therapy field. Unfortunately there are un-reputable massage "parlors" that create a bad image for those of us who are dedicated to your health and relieving pain and suffering. Very often working in conjunction with chiropractors, massage therapists are helping to heal victims of auto accidents and various other injuries that are causing severe pain, numbness and tingling and limited range of motion. And of even greater importance, routine maintenance, through reduced pain, stress, increased circulation, greater range of motion and general sense of wellbeing, is saving thousands in medical costs to millions. So, do yourself a favor and call your massage therapist today. http://www.tampabaymassagetherapy.com/Thursday, October 22, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Did you wake up this morning with pain, stiffness, aching joints? Are you stressed or have anxiety? Well the good news is that massage therapy can eleviate all of those health issues. In this country between 80% and 90% of all illness can be directly linked to stress. One of the greatest benefits of massage therapy is the reduction of stress. So the next time you are feeling pain or stress, don't pick up a pill. Pick up your phone and call me! Melanie M. Neumann, LMT 727-215-3862
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Prenatal Massage
This past Saturday I had the wonderful experience of providing prenatal massage. Everyone can benefit from all the positive effects of massage therapy, but one group in particular is expectant mothers. It is such an honor to work with these women. Having had four children myself I know first hand how wonderful massage can be. I use body cushions that have the mother lying on her side. So comfortable most just want to fall asleep. This position allows me to use fairly deep pressure on their back which can be so achy with all that extra weight they are carrying around. It also allows me to do some range of motion with their legs that really feels good and work on their hips and glutes which are often strained and causing some sciatic pain. Really good hand and foot massage with some reflexology makes for a very relaxing and rejuvenating massage.
Prenatal massage does more than relieve aches and pains and stresses on the pregnant body. An expectant mom's blood volume can double during her pregnancy. Massage helps with her circulation; helps move lymph and interstial fluid. This helps improve the immune system and helps distribute hormones. Massage also helps the body release the brains feel good chemicals, dopamine and serotonin as well as endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers. These help mom feel good about herself, her body image, and feel closer to her baby. It also helps her have a better body awareness that can help with her labor. And massage provided to a woman during labor is proven to shorten labor, reduce the need for pain meds and fewer medical interventions.
So if you are expecting or you know anyone who is expecting, have them get a prenatal massage. They will thank you!
Blessing~Melanie M. Neumann, LMT &
Certified Prenatal Massage Therapist
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Emotional Benefits of Massage
I have a tag line, "Healing Mind, Body & Spirit." As a massage therapist most people understand the healing body part but often don't fully understand the mind and spirit aspect. Massage therapy is so beneficial for us all on all three levels. Regular massage therapy relaxes aching muscles, relieves pain and stress but it also affects our brain, our emotions. When you receive a massage, your brain not only releases endorphins, your body's natural pain killers, it releases serotonin and dopamine, your "feel good" chemicals. These help alleviate anxiety and depression. When receiving a massage by a caring practitioner the client will feel the positive energy and unconditional support and caring that is put into it, improving their self image and mental state. Imagine all the pills you have to take each day to accomplish all the things massage therapy can do and without any side effects!
Every time I give a massage, before I place my hands on you, I will connect with the positive energy and spirit within me. And when I place my hands on you it will be with intention. Intention to give you the best massage possible, to heal your mind, your body and your spirit. So the next time your are feeling depressed, anxious, in pain or your aching, don’t pick up a pill. Pick up the phone and call me. Your body will thank you!
Blessing to you...
Melanie
http://www.tampabaymassagetherapy.com/
Friday, August 28, 2009
Why Massage?
As a society we are touch deprived. There have been studies done that show babies that are not held, are deprived of touch, will not thrive. We need healthy touch in our lives to be healthy, not just physically but emotionally, spiritually... Massage, on a regular basis is not a luxury, but an extremely important part of a healthy lifestyle.
Massage as a healing tool has been around for thousands of years in many cultures, from Egyptian times to Julius Cesare as well as in China. Touching is a natural human reaction to pain and stress, and for conveying compassion and support. There is now scientific proof that massage benefits a variety of health concerns from treating chronic diseases and injuries to alleviating tension and stress. Having a massage does more than just relax your body and mind - there are specific physiological and psychological changes which occur, even more so when massage is utilized as a preventative, frequent therapy and not simply a luxury. Massage not only feels good, but it can alleviate your dis-ease.
Many in the scientific community believe that 80 to 90% of disease is cause by stress. Besides increasing relaxation and decreasing anxiety, massage lowers your blood pressure, increases circulation, improves recovery from injury, helps you to sleep better and can increase your concentration. It reduces fatigue and gives you more energy to handle stressful situations. Massage can provide emotional and spiritual balance, bringing with it true relaxation and peace.
It is my sincere hope to help bring this balance back to all those I have the honor and priviledge of working with. If you are hurting, if you are in dis-ease, let massage help you find a more peaceful balanced relaxed and happier self.
Melanie
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