Massage can also be helpful for many cases of chronic pain, physical rehabilitation and recovery from surgical precedures. Massage has also been of clinical value as an adjunct to psychotherapy for victims of physical and sexual abuse. The non-verbal nature of massage therapy lends itself to working with many kinds of emotional trauma. It has been used in programs to end alcohol and substance abuse and as a tool for managing cancer. It has been shown to promote weight gains in premature babies and to ease childbirth and pregnancy.
Massage therapy provides nurturing and warm physical contact for the elderly and infirm.
The variety and applications of massage and bodywork present a certain challenge for the consumer. Finding a licensed massage therapist with experience in treating your particular condition requires diligence. The best way to begin your search for a massage therapist is to ask friends and acquaintances if they know anyone. Ask around at your health club or gym, at your beauty salon, or your chiropractor's or physical therapist's office. Check the Yellow Pages directory or look for a phone number for your local chapter of the Americal Massage Therapy Association.