Complementary Alternative Cardiovascular Medicine

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158 Alternative Cardiovascular Medicine on by massage therapy has, in the author’s experience, an admonishing effect on pain. Massage may inhibit pain by interfering with inceptive information (the “gateway” concept), which enters the spinal cord through stimulation of cutaneous thermoreceptors and mechanoreceptors. Sensations that are produced by massage have the potential to suppress painful stimuli. Massage is believed to mechanically effect pain receptors (e.g., golgi tendon organs) and alter the neural signals. This is termed “neuromuscular reeducation” (30). THE EFFECTS OF MASSAGE FOR THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM Massage slows down the rate of respiration via stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system. The mechanical loosening and discharge of phlegm in the respiratory tract is increased with the rhythmic alternating pressures induced by massage. Tapotement (cupping) and vibration on the rib cage are often used to enhance this effect. Phlegm loosening and discharge are further enhanced when combined with certain postural body positions to promote drainage. By freeing tight respiratory muscles, massage can be used to increase vital capacity and pulmonary function (31). CARDIAC MEDICATIONS Aspirin, Coumadin, and other antiplatelet drugs are often associated with easy bruising and bleeding. Manual methods, such as compression, friction, deep sustained pressure, or trigger-point work, should generally be avoided in patients on these medications. Light pressure massage may be valuable. Patients who are taking diuretics may complain of pain, muscle weakness, and cramping or spasms. These are common symptoms that are treated by massage and may be a sign of electrolyte imbalance. Calcium channel blockers and other vasodilators may cause swollen feet and ankles. Caution is advised, because some of these patients may be at an increased risk for developing DVT (32). THE EFFECTS OF MASSAGE FOR THE URINARY SYSTEM Massage, especially abdominal work, increases urine output possibly by activating dormant capillary beds and recovering lymphatic fluids for filtration and enhancing parasympathetic activity. Massage increases the excretion of nitrogen, inorganic phosphorus, and sodium chloride. The levels of these metabolic wastes are elevated in urine after massage (33).
Chapter 10 / Massage Therapy and CVD 159 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR MASSAGE There are several situations where massage is relatively contraindicated, depending on the extent of the condition. The general rule is that massage should maintain a patient’s internal stability and avoid promoting the spread of any disease, infection, or blood clot. Generally, relative contraindications will apply to an area being treated and not to the entire body. However, appropriate caution is always advised (see Table 1). MANUAL HEALING TECHNIQUES: A BRIEF DESCRIPTIVE GLOSSARY The following list provides a brief description of various manual and “touch” therapies that your patient may encounter. Alexander technique: Gentle touch motions and manual therapy are aimed at achieving a more balanced and poised state. The outcome is relief of physical tension through reeducation of the “kinesthetic sense.” A practitioner will aim to make a series of adjustments to the body to improve posture. Aromatherapy: The use of essential oils is an age-old technique. Various scents added to massage oil therapy could selectively influence the massage to be relaxing and stimulate healing. Craniosacral: This is a type of myofascial release addressing tensions in the craniosacral system. It is a light-touch procedure aimed at remedying distortions in the structure and function of the craniosacral mechanism. It is believed to help alleviate neck and low back pain and stress-related problems. Feldenkrais: A system of physical reeducation. The practitioner provides gentle manipulation in helping patients to avoid bad posture and movements that reflect disruptions in the nervous system. Strives to improve posture to free a person to become more flexible. Myofascial release: This is used to loosen contractile connective tissues, muscles, and fascia. Gentle traction, pressure, and positioning are used to coax muscles in spasm to relax and to break adhesions in the fascia. Neuromuscular therapy: This is soft-tissue manipulation that is aimed at balancing the CNS with the musculoskeletal system. Moderate to deep pressure is applied to break stress–tension–pain cycles. The aim is to relax muscles, especially those that are compressing nerves to increase circulation. On-site massage: A 15- to 20-min chair massage fully clothed with concentration on the shoulders, neck, back, head, and arms. Polarity: This is a blend of Western therapies, traditional Chinese medicine, and ayurveda. Practitioners aim to rebalance the energy flow
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Complementary and Alternative Cardi
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CONTEMPORARY CARDIOLOGY CHRISTOPHER
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© 2004 Humana Press Inc. 999 River
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vi Preface physician or other healt
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viii Contents 10 Massage Therapy an
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x Contributors ERIN L. OLIVO, PhD
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Chapter 1 / CAM and CVD 1 1 Complem
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Chapter 1 / CAM and CVD 3 patients
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Index 279 INDEX A N-Acetylcysteine
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Index 281 taurine studies, 106 Conj
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Index 283 Homeopathic medicine, see
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Index 285 funding of studies, 148 g
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Contemporary Cardiology COMPLEMENTA
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Complementary Alternative Cardiovascular Medicine

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