'POP!' Goes the Trigger Finger

Do you have a finger that stops in one spot and will not move unless you put a little more exertion into it, or do you have to move it with your other hand? When your finger gets stuck and you get it moving again is there a little 'pop'? Is there pain involved with this process? If you answer 'yes' to these questions you most likely have what is called trigger finger.
According to Ben Benjamin;PhD it is caused by inflammation of a flexor tendon or its sheath-a lubricated guide that keeps the tendon on its proper tack-that catches and holds the finger until it can 'pop' on through to the other side.1 It can be caused by over exertion, or the problem can be caused by repetitive motion.

What to do?

• See a licensed massage therapist who knows how to massage out the problem.
  
• Splint the finger to immobilize it and let it rest and take an over the counter analgesic to reduce the swelling.
• See a doctor who may inject the area effected with special medication to reduce the swelling.
• If nothing else works and the problem is severe and painful the doctor may prescribe surgery.
  

I have worked with clients that had trigger fingers. Even the skeptical ones have ultimately been pleased with the outcome of the therapy. So, if you think you have one or more trigger fingers see a licensed massage therapist and find out what they can do for you.

1 Benjamin, Ben E., Trigger Finger, Massage Today,
fa; 2007 www.massagetoday.com

A Worthy Subject-3

Is it worth putting up with that pesky pain that just won't go away?

• The results form the study on low-back pain, published in the 2003 Annals of Internal Medicine, showed that massage therapy reduced the patient's need for pain medications by 36 per cent, compared to other therapies, including acupuncture. This is great news for the more than 100 million Americans who experience low-back pain.
• Approximately 45 million Americans experience chronic headaches, and of those, more than 60 percent suffer from migraines. A 2006 study in The Annals of Behavioral Medicine showed that those who received massage therapy had fewer migraines for more than three week following treatment.
• There is a growing body of research that shows massage therapy can alleviate the pain of many conditions, including cancer, osteoarthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome.1

_________________

Don;t let stress or pain rob you 0f your life. Get a massage and let the healing begin.
"Nuff Said"

1 Picciuto, Lee; "More Than A Luxury"; Body Sense Magazine, Autumn/Winter 2009, p.8.

A Worthy Subject-2

Is carrying all that stress worth it?

• According to a 2009 survey sponsored by Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals, 81 per cent of Americans are as stressed, or more stressed, than they were a year ago.
• Studies from the Touch Research Institute have shown that massage therapy effectively reduces stress and anxiety by lowering the stress hormone cortisol by up to 52 per cent.
  
• HR Magazine reports that employees receiving massage therapy at work are more productive and are less likely to take unplanned time off work.1

____________

So, is it worth it to allow that stress to continue? Or, would it be better to get a massage that is chemical free and good for you as well?

1 Picciuto, Lee; "More Than Al Luxury"; Body Sense Magazine; Autumn/Winter 2009, p.6.

A Worthy Subject-1

According to Body Sense Magazine, "One of the most frequently asked questions regarding massage therapy is if its worth the Expense."1

Answer

Massage is not just a simple back rub , nor is it just a "luxury" or occasional "treat." Research tells us that massage is a valuable component of a well-rounded health regime, combating everything from chronic pain to the negative effects of stress.
Some people are unaware of the great skill and knowledge that comprises a massage therapy education . . . [such as physiology, anatomy, business ethics, sanitary procedures, indications and contradiction to massage and more including continuing education requirements each year] 1

_______________

So, just ask yourself, " Is it worth it to put up with feelings of stress, tension, or pain? Or, would it be worth it to get a massage by someone specially trained to take care of these problems in an effective way." People who get either a monthly or bimonthly massage tend to feel better, be less stressed and have a greater feeling of well-being.
Get a massage today and see if its worth it.

1 Picciuto, Lee; "More Than a Luxury'; Body Sense Magazine, Autumn/Winter 2009, p.6.

Its About Football

O.k. guys, whose your favorite football player? What about your favorite football team?

While watching all your favorite games this holiday season contemplate this-Your favorite football players all had a massage before the game. And, they will have a massage after the game. Plus, while rehabilitating from an injury they will be ordered to see a massage therapist.

However, understand they are NOT lying around in the locker room with cucumbers covering their eyes while they get a relaxing herbal body wrap. Instead licensed therapists are working to prepare each athletes body to function at its best during the game and helping in the cool down process after. Massage therapists also look for possible injuries after the game as well as potential soft tissue problems that could cause injuries in the future.

Therefore guys, take the hint. Even if you are not a professional football player you may be running,, playing tennis, racquetball or golfing on the weekend. You may be working in a warehouse, construction or otherwise doing heavy lifting or strenuous work. Or, you may be sitting at a computer all day in one position with your neck and back killing you. No matter what you are doing you don’t have to put up with muscular pain or stiffness. Get a deep tissue massage to work out the kinks so you will be able to feel and do your best.
“NUFF SAID”

I got dem ol' post holiday shoppin' blues

Shopping got you tired and cranky? Rest, relax and rejuvenate at BGMT with a wonderful massage to help you feel like you're a new person.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas from Ben Gustafson Massage Therapy
May you have a super New Year, also.

Thanks for choosing BGMT.

"Weight Loss and Bodywork"1

Massage-anything this good must be fattening, right? Wrong! Scientists now confirm what massage therapists have always known: massage can be a powerful and effective weight-loss tool. By improving your bodies resilience, adding muscle nutrition and flexibility, and supporting your mental and emotional well-being, massage can take your weight-loss plan to a whole new level.1

Ways massage can help your weight-loss program:

• Injury prevention and better healing and restoration.
• Improving blood and lymphatic fluid circulation.
• Taking the parasympathetic nervous system to a state of deep restorative relaxation.
• Shortening recovery time between workouts thus reducing soreness and stiffness.

__________

I personally can attest to the above information. Besides working as a massage therapist I garden and run ten or more miles each week. If I don;t get a weekly massage I can't function.

So, if you are planning to try a wight -lose program it would benefit you to consider massage at least once a month. And, don't be shy! No matter how much weight you have gained or how you think you look, massage therapists are concerned about treating the person and are unconcerned about their clients weight or how the client thinks they look. Massage therapists and bodyworkers only concern is your well-being.

1. Charet, Genevieve P.; Body Sense. Spring/Summer 2010, p.24-25.

Keeping the Neuopathy Wolves at Bay

Neuopathy can rob you of your independence. It can cause pain which tends to keep you from walking. It can cause you to have a greater risk of falling and injury. Once again the main concept is, "Move it or loose it."

Since diabetes and neuropathy can go hand in hand, here are some points to consider.

Exercises that improve your strength and balance can counter [these risks]. Whats more, regular physical activity:

• Reduces your risk for heart disease.
• Helps you maintain your ability to do everyday tasks.
• Reduces risks and helps you manage other diabetes complications, including kidney and eye problems.

Experts recommend that people with diabetes get 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week [some say 30 to 40 minutes seven days a week] . . . Moderate activities include:

• Brisk walking.
• Biking slower than 10 miles per hour.
• Gardening
• Ballroom dancing.
• Water Aerobics.

[Things that help]:

• Wearing the proper shoes for you activity and making sure they fit well. Shoes with soles made of gel or air can reduce the impact on your feet.
• Changing your socks before and after you sweat. Consider polyester or polyester- cotton blend varieties to reduce blister risk.
• Being consistent with activity level . . .1

And of course, don't forget massage. But first, talk to your physician and to a reputable massage therapist. They can tell you if massage would be of benefit in your present condition.

1. Deseret Mutual- optima/health. Diabetes Outlook. Fall 2010. P. 4

What are you missing?

It always amazes me to hear the comments of those who have just received a professional massage for the fist time. Most never considered how much better thy would feel after a massage. And, how it would effect their whole attitude in a positive way.

It also amazes me when a first time massage recipient come in and says they haven't be able to sleep well. Then, a couple of minutes after the session begins they are sound asleep on the table.

If you have never tried massage therapy before, try it! Then you will discover what you are missing.
"Nuff Said"

Chair Masssage for Charity

I will be doing free two minute chair massage sessions at the Waco-McLennan County Library book sale November 5th and 6th until around 6 p.m.. More time may be purchased for $1 a minute. Proceeds will go to the Friends of the Library group to help the Waco-McLennan County Library.

Friday Nov. 5 & Saturday Nov. 6
Heart of Texas Fairground
General Exhibits & Creative Arts Buildings.
I will be to the left of the check out counters.

So, don't shop until you drop. Shop, get a massage and shop some more. Its a worthy cause.

HEADACHE
Workshop - 3

Caution!!!

While most headaches are a function of soft tissue problems, allergies, lack of proper rest, etc. There are other more serious causes. According to Health-Cares.Net, "Headaches have a wide variety of causes, ranging from eyestrain to inflammation of the sinus cavities to life-threatening conditions such as encephalitis, brain cancer, and cerebral aneurysms. When the headache occurs in conjunction with a head injury the cause is usually quite evident . . ."2 So, If you are having an unusral headache in length or severity and/or other symptoms, be safe, check with your physician.

In conclusion, don't let a headache ruin your day. Do something about it.
"Nuff Said"

2. http://neurology.health-cares.net/headache-causes.php

HEADACHE
Workshop - 2

The following are bodywork options to take care of most headaches.

Swedish Massage. A tension headache, by its very name, implies the presence of stress and tension. Swedish massage, on the other hand, promotes relaxation and relieves muscle tension. When muscles become tight due to stress or poor posture, they eventually adapt a chronically shortened state. Swedish massage teaches the body how to let go of muscle tension and resets muscle tone.

Integrative Bodywork. Rolfing, Hellerwork, Structural Integration, and CORE are examples of the types of bodywork designed to improve posture and structural alignment. A primary cause of chronic headaches is poor posture, which produces tension in the neck and shoulders because the weight of the head is not properly balanced on top of the spine. Integrative bodywork can produce lasting postural change for greater ease of movement. By selectively freeing the soft tissues, integrative bodywork literally can change postural alignment and remove the stresses and strains on the muscles that cause headaches.

Deep Tissue Therapies. The integrative therapies mentioned above, as well as neuromuscular therapy and myofascial release, use similar techniques to free connective tissue. A chronically tensed muscle tends to maintain that tension, even after the stressful event has passed. Deep tissue techniques free the connective tissue glue, creating a new way for the muscle to function.

Reflexology. Like acupuncture, reflexology works to move energy blockages in the body. By stimulating points on the feet that correspond to organs in the body, reflexologists can promote relaxation, reduce pain, and restore energy flow. Several scientific studies have shown that reflexology is a viable treatment for migraines, in some cases working as well as, or better than, medication--and without the side effects.

Craniosacral Therapy. Craniosacral therapy addresses the inherent, gentle, rhythmic movement of the bones in the skull and their effect on the fluid that surrounds, bathes, and cushions the brain and spinal cord and runs throughout the body. Cranial bones move in miniscule amounts as a response to the production and absorption of cranial fluid. With head trauma, whiplash injury, or even severe stress, cranial bone movement can be compromised, resulting in headaches, dizziness, ringing in the ears, or vision disturbances. This therapy restores the normal movement of the cranial bones and fluid.1

The main thing to note here is that massage therapy and bodywork can work to alleviate your headache. However, all headaches are not caused by soft tissue problems. Please go to the next post for more information on this subject.

1. Ulrich,Cathy. Holding Headaches at Bay,

Bodywork Eases Chronic Migraines and Tension Headaches.

Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. http://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/index.php/article_id/1058/Holding-Headaches-at-Bay-

HEADACHE
Workshop - 1

Headaches are not all created equal. They can vary from a dull aching sensation somewhere around the head to a monstrous noggin splitting pain that can cause nausea, vomiting and various other unpleasant symptoms. This post lists the three general types of headaches.

Migraines. Migraine headaches occur when the blood vessels in the brain become dilated, usually due to a chemical reaction, such as food allergies or a stress response. They often start with visual disturbances and quickly develop into severe head pain accompanied by nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and sensitivity to light. They're usually felt on one side of the head, but can be on both sides. Migraines are often managed with medications and avoidance of foods known to trigger them, such as red wine, chocolate, aged cheese, and nuts. However, some bodywork techniques can also be effective in easing migraines or decreasing the frequency of these painful headaches.

Tension Headaches. Exaggerated by stress, tension headaches are related to poor posture, jaw problems (such as temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ), and neck pain. Many people describe a headache that starts at the base of the skull and then moves in an arc over the ears and behind the eyes. Tension headaches are most often caused or exacerbated by poor posture, work station positions, and body mechanics, creating undue stress on the upper neck muscles.

Mixed Headaches. The term mixed headache is used to describe a tension headache that leads to a migraine. Typically, the tension headache starts first and the chemicals produced from the pain of it create conditions for a migraine to develop. In people with patterns of mixed headaches, the best way to avoid the onset of a migraine is to treat the tension headache.1

Check the next post to find out about bodywork options to take care of headaches.

1. Ulrich,Cathy. Holding Headaches at Bay,

Bodywork Eases Chronic Migraines and Tension Headaches.

Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. http://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/index.php/article_id/1058/Holding-Headaches-at-Bay-

CHRONIC FATIGUE

Possible Causes - 8

Chronic fatigue may have many causal factors. This series of blog posts offer a few ideas you can check out for yourself or with your physician.

Conclusion

Viral, parasitic or fungal infections, psychological factors, including depression, and immune dysfunction are conditions that should also be ruled out. Other serious conditions, including cardiac disease and cancer, often present with chronic fatigue as a primary, and sometimes only, symptom.1

Let me point out that DeLanney1 suggests you look at the self care factors and try the suggestions contained there. They can sometimes lessen the problem.
Let me say that if you have concerns about the medical aspects of what is going on you should see you physician and speak with them about any concerns you have. Then, your physician can work with you to diagnose, eliminate or minimize any medical conditions you might have.
Finally, let me not forget one simple therapy that can help simple chronic fatigue. According to an article in The Journal of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, ". . . following ten days of massage therapy, chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers experienced fewer somatic symptoms, and less difficulty sleeping, as cortisol levels decreased and dopamine levels increased."2
So, get a massage today!
"Nuff Said"

Please check other possible causes under the listing of Chronic Fatigue via this blog.

1 DeLany; LMT, Judith. "Tired of Being Tired." Massage Today, Oct. 2010, p. 12. (www.nmtcenter.com)
2 Field, T., et al. Chronic fatigue syndrome: Massage therapy effects on depression and somatic symptoms in chronic fatigue syndrome. Journal of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. 3;1999;108-112.

CHRONIC FATIGUE

Possible Causes - 7

Chronic fatigue may have many causal factors. This series of blog posts offer a few ideas you can check out for yourself or with your physician.

Medial Assessment Issues

Insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia: The level of blood sugar (glucose) is controlled by insulin, as hormone produced by the pancreas. A number of disorders can effect the availability of glucose and its conversion to adenosine triphospate (ATP), the bodies primary energy source for its muscles. Type 2 diabetes is a common disease of the pancreas that effects insulin, and has substantial health consequences particularly if not addressed quickly.1

Overweight, going to the bathroom a lot, cuts and scrapes not healing well? Guys, are your very hair legs suddenly smooth and hairless? Itchy spots showing up on your arms or legs for no apparent reason? Better have your blood sugar checked.
"Nuff Said"

Please check other possible causes under the listing of Chronic Fatigue via this blog.

1 DeLany; LMT, Judith. "Tired of Being Tired." Massage Today, Oct. 2010, p. 12. (www.nmtcenter.com)

CHRONIC FATIGUE

Possible Causes - 6

Chronic fatigue may have many causal factors. This series of blog posts offer a few ideas you can check out for yourself or with your physician.

Medial Assessment Issues

Thyroid disorder: Thyroid hormone insufficiency is a common culprit. In some cases, nourishing the thyroid gland with iodine and other supplements may be adequate. For others, prescribing synthetic or natural thyroid hormone may be necessary. A thyroid panel assesses several factors in thyroid function and provides insights as to where dysfunction is occurring.1

Something you can discuss with your doctor.
"Nuff Said"

Please check other possible causes under the listing of Chronic Fatigue via this blog.

1 DeLany; LMT, Judith. "Tired of Being Tired." Massage Today, Oct. 2010, p. 12. (www.nmtcenter.com)

CHRONIC FATIGUE
Possible Causes - 5

Chronic fatigue may have many causal factors. This series of blog posts offer a few ideas you can check out for yourself or with your physician.

Self Care Issue

Sleep: The quantity and quality of sleep can be critical factors in issues of fatigue. Although many people may appear to function on far less each night than the recommended seven to eight hours, the long-term consequences of inadequate rest are formidable, including obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.1

What else can be said here. Get some sleep, and you;ll feel much better.
"Nuff Said"

Please check other possible causes under the listing of Chronic Fatigue via this blog.

1 DeLany; LMT, Judith. "Tired of Being Tired." Massage Today, Oct. 2010, p. 12. (www.nmtcenter.com)

CHRONIC FATIGUE
Possible Causes - 4

Chronic fatigue may have many causal factors. This series of blog posts offer a few ideas you can check out for yourself or with your physician.

Self Care Issue

Exercise: Movement, a basic sign of life, influences, muscle, skeletal and joint health while increasing the amount of available oxygen. Like fanning a fire, increased oxygen fans the metabolic fire, which influences which increases cellular energy. A lifestyle that lacks movement usually results in a body that is stiff, weak and slow burning.1

What this is saying in simple terms is exercise is a necessary part of life. Yes, I know. Most people don't like to exercise, but most people don't like to feel bad either. So, a little exercise can go a long way helping you feel and act in a normal, healthy way. It helps the body cope with everyday life and stress. To put it plainly, move it or loose it!
Therefore, plan a simple and safe exercise program. If you have health issues you should get your physicians approval before beginning.

Please check other possible causes under the listing of Chronic Fatigue via this blog.

1 DeLany; LMT, Judith. "Tired of Being Tired." Massage Today, Oct. 2010, p. 12. (www.nmtcenter.com)

CHRONIC FATIGUE
Possible Causes - 3

Chronic fatigue may have many causal factors. This series of blog posts offer a few ideas you can check out for yourself or with your physician.1

Self Care Issue

Food allergies / sensitivities: Although often overlooked unless they produce obvious symptoms (rash, swelling of throat, etc.), these may burden the digestive, lymphatic, endocrine and other systems. Alcohol and artificial sweetness such as appertain have also been implicated. Be particularly suspicious of items that are associated with cravings or that are consumed regularly. What food would you not want to give up? That one is often the culprit.
Glycemic factors: Foods that are higher in carbohydrates may cause a spike in blood sugar and result in a blood sugar drop a couple of hours later. While simple carbs may offer immediate energy, adequate proteen, complex carbs and a small amount of healthy fat keep blood sugar level.
When food is consumed: Six small meals a day has been suggested for those with low energy. However, research involving leptin, a newly discovered hormone that signals the brain regarding hunger, has led some to suggest three meals each day (balanced portions of protein, carbohydrates and fat), spread five to six hours apart without snacking between, is a better choice for most. It is suggested that this results in a better interface of a number of energy-related, appetite, and sleep hormones, including adrenaline, insulin, leptin, melatonin and cortisol.1

I have personally found that for me five to six meals a day does not work well. Furthermore, snacks between meals don't work either. There is a tendency to either overeat at each of the small meals and snack too much where snacks are concerned. Therefore, what seems to be best for me is three squares with no snacks.
"Nuff Said"

Please check other possible causes under the listing of Chronic Fatigue via this blog.

1 DeLany; LMT, Judith. "Tired of Being Tired." Massage Today, Oct. 2010, p. 12. (www.nmtcenter.com)

CHRONIC FATIGUE
Possible Causes - 2

Chronic fatigue may have many causal factors. This series of blog posts offer a few ideas you can check out for yourself or with your physician.

Self Care Issue

Nutrition: Vitamin deficiencies and mineral imbalances often contribute to, and sometimes are the primary cause of, fatigue and chronic pain. Low iron is commonly addressed, however, other vitamins, such as B12 and D, as well as insufficient minerals (magnesium in particular) may be the underlying culprit.1

This is a another simple one. Eat a variety of foods including fresh fruits and vegetables.
"Nuff Said"

Please check other possible causes under the listing of Chronic Fatigue via this blog.

1 DeLany; LMT, Judith. "Tired of Being Tired." Massage Today, Oct. 2010, p. 12. (www.nmtcenter.com)