massage
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Intro
Massage is defined as the systematic manual or mechanical manipulations of the soft tissues of the body by such movements as rubbing, kneading, pressing, rolling, slapping and tapping, for therapeutic purposes such as promoting circulation of the blood and lymph, relief from pain, restoration of metabolic balance and other benefits both physical and mental. {Beck, 1988}
Massage is a natural and instinctive method by which minor aches and pains can be soothed away while bringing relief from nervous tension and fatigue.
Massage when properly applied by qualified practitioners, is of positive value in building and maintaining a healthy, vigorous body for men and women.
HISTORY
Massage is one of the earliest remedial practices of humankind and is said to be the most natural and instinctive means of relieving pain and discomfort. When a person has sore, aching muscles, abdominal pains or a bruise or wound, it is a natural and instinctive impulse to touch and rub that part of the body to obtain relief. {Beck, 1988}
In the early ninetieth century, Per Henrik Ling (1776 1839) of Sweden, who was a physiologist and fencing master, systemized and developed movements he found to be beneficial in improving his own physical condition {Beck, 1988}. These movements became know as Medical Gymnastic. Ling established the Royal Swedish Central Institute Of Gymnastics in 1813. Ling's Medical Gymnastics was taught in his new institute and became known as the Swedish Movements. Per Hendik Ling became known as the father of physical therapy...