Therapeutic Massage

What is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy acts directly on muscle groups with kneading and stretching motions to relax them and flush them of built-up waste products. It improves circulation, stimulates the nervous system and relieves symptoms aggravated by anxiety and stress. Increased nutrition and oxygen from the blood assists the healing processes and heightens the body’s overall vitality.

Massage increases the circulation of the blood and lymph systems, thus carrying off harmful metabolic waste by-products that may accumulate in the cells of the muscle tissue due to overwork or from tension and fatigue. Increased nutrition and oxygen from the blood assists the healing processes and heightens the body's overall vitality. 

Some additional benefits include: 

1. Alleviating pain in sore muscles       
2. Releasing tensions in the body brought about by physiological stress       
3. Increasing blood flow by dilating the blood vessels and enhancing circulation       
4. Stimulation of nerve supply to virtually every cell and organ in the body 

Massage therapy can help:
• Reduce stress;
• Relieve headaches; 
• Relieve muscle aches;
• Improve concentration;
• Improve sleep;
• Relieve depression; and
• Strengthen the immune system.

Massage therapy is appropriate for persons of all ages, from infants to senior adults.

Both male and female registered massage therapists are available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, 7 a.m. to Noon at the Getterman Wellness Center.

Hillcrest Health System offers professional massage therapy to support the physical health and vitality of people of all ages. Massages have been proven to be especially effective among pregnant women, infants and children.

Massage sessions are held at the Ted and Sue Getterman Wellness Center, located at Highway 6 and Bosque. To schedule an appointment, please call (254) 202-3800.

What to Expect During a Massage?
You will be comfortably supported with pillows or cushions and draped with a sheet everywhere except the part of your body being massaged. If your sense of smell is sensitive, you may request unscented lotion or oil. Feel free to always ask questions when needed. 

Massage During Pregnancy
Massage can help with many of the aches and pains you experience as your body changes during pregnancy. 

When you are pregnant, massage can:
• Loosen tight muscles;
• Calm the nervous system;
• Alleviate headaches;
• Increase circulation and flexibility;
• Relieve pain in muscles and joints; 
• Ease constipation, gas, and heartburn; and
• Slow the progress of varicose veins.

Infant Massages
Studies by UNICEF and the University of Miami School of Medicine have proven that infant massages:
• Improve sleeping patterns;
• Diminish anxious behavior;
• Significantly reduce stress indicators such as heart rate and stress hormone levels; and
• Benefit developing nervous systems.

Children's Massages
It is never too late to start massaging. Children of all ages can benefit from massage therapy. 

Children's massages can:
• Calm children during emotional upsets;
• Relieve discomforts of illness;
• Ease the pain of tension headaches and muscle aches or cramps;
• Help ADHD children concentrate better, cry less and sleep better;
• Help you learn about your child’s unique signals; and
• Help you better understand his or her special needs.

Massage as Health Maintenance

Massaging is not limited to only pregnant women, infants and children. Any person who faces stress on a regular basis is a candidate for massage therapy.

Stress is a natural human response that actually helps ensure our survival. Yet in today's modern world, our response to stress triggers many chronic illnesses. Unmanaged stress may lead to high blood pressure, headaches, gastrointestinal disorders, tensions, fatigue and even psychological disorders. Stress can also cause decreased worker productivity, increased absence and back injury. Scientific research shows, however, that massage can reduce stress and its physical effects.

Gift certificates are available! For more information, contact the Ted and Sue Getterman Wellness Center at (254) 202-WELL.

Can I have only my back and shoulders massaged?

 Every client has a right to set his or her own limitations; however, be aware that all parts of your body work together. Discomfort tends to concentrate in sensitive areas. For the greatest feeling of integration and wholeness, a full body massage is recommended.

 Will I need to undress?

 There are some massage techniques that can be performed with the participant fully clothed. A full body massage or table massage usually works best with partial disrobing. With disrobing, the participant is discreetly covered by sheets and towels for warmth and modesty; shorts and bathing suits are also an option. Our primary goal is to help you relax and feel your best; therefore, we encourage you to stay within your comfort level. 

Is massage ever prescribed by a physician?

Yes! Doctors frequently recommend to their patients that massage treatments be taken at regular intervals. It is rare, but your insurance may cover the cost of the massage therapy. Please check with your company for more information. 

How often should I receive a massage? 

To conserve or improve one's health, to stimulate mental or physical energy, or just to relax and unwind, a therapeutic massage every 7-10 days is optimal. 

How long will the massage last?

Sessions last from 30 minutes to 90 minutes depending on the participant's specific request.