For example, research shows massage can give seniors relief from the symptoms of arthritis and it can also help calm infants with colic or sleep difficulties. The survey found a steady increase across all age groups in the number of people who have had a massage since 1997. The number of people ages 65 and older who have had a massage in the last five years also has increased to 16 percent from 9 percent in 1998 and 8 percent in 1997. The data show a strong public recognition that massage has therapeutic benefits. Only 8 percent of survey respondents have massages just to pamper themselves.
Massage is popular among all age groups.
The most notable increase is in the 55-64 year old age group, with 17 percent reporting they have had a therapeutic massage in 1999 compared to 11 percent in 1998. Therapeutic massage is not only gaining momentum among consumers, but its health benefits are becoming accepted by an increasing number of medical professionals. Sixty-nine percent of people who talked to their doctors or health care providers about massage therapy reported a positive discussion. Therapeutic massage is a wonderful way to help your body foster good health. Through National Massage Therapy Awareness Week, AMTA hopes to further educate the public about the advantages of massage throughout life.