Williams also suggests negotiating with a therapist for regular sessions. The therapist may offer a sliding scale, or be willing to give a discount if you bring in other referrals or place announcements in a newsletter or bulletin board. Paying for several sessions up front could get you a deal. It's unusual for health insurance to cover massage therapy, but it may be covered if it's prescribed by your doctor or physical therapist. An alternative is for family members to learn massage.
Schools often give short courses on the basics, and there are instructional books and Web sites.
Users of the Thera Cane can apply massage to their own sore muscles or trigger points. There are benefits for the person receiving massage and for the person giving it. Some people can do self-massage of pressure points on the head, face, torso and feet. You can also use products that apply pressure on trigger points, usually involving hardwood or rubber knobs. Altaffer points to another significant benefit of massage.