Destination Spa Vacations with Michelle

Massage Relieves Pain After Surgery

The evidence is mounting - massage therapy is a good thing! Chances are that if you are reading this blog, I don't need to tell you about the feel good benefits of massage. But you may be surpised to learn that there are some medical benefits. On Monday, U.S. researchers claimed that massage can ease pain after surgery and may complement the use of drugs for patients.

In a study of 605 men 64 years and older who had major surgery, all participants received comparable dosages of pain-relieving drugs and 200 received a nightly 20-minute back massages for four days. On a scale of 1 to 10, those who received massages reported their pain diminished one level faster than those who did not.

The effectiveness of massage in reducing both the intensity and unpleasantness of pain suggests that it may act through more than one mechanism," Allison Mitchinson of the Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System in Michigan wrote in the Archives of Surgery. "Massage may ameliorate suffering by helping to relieve the anxiety that so effectively synergizes with pain to create distress." Massage can dilate blood vessels, raise skin temperature and relax the mind and body. It can also reduce lactic acid levels in aching muscles, stimulate healing of connective tissues and increase lymphatic and blood circulation. Massage may also create mood-boosting endorphins that offer a competing sensation, or may even block pain, the study said.

So can we all expect massage therapy after our next surgery? Realtiy check - nurses in modern-day hospitals rarely have time to give massages as they did for the study. However, with more healthcare organizations seeking to enhance revenues, attract new customers and appeal to the health-conscious movement, the hospital/spa concept has gained momentum. While painfully slow, it does appear that we are moving towards a wellness-based (versus sickness) health care system. Until then, be sure to schedule regular massages and inlcude a Destination Spa vacation each year.

Source: Reuters, December 17, 2007

$50 Spa Treatments during Spa Week

Everyone from the spa newbie to the spa aficianados needs to check this out. It is time to get out and try some spa services at reasonable prices thanks to SpaWeek. Next week (September 17-23) is the kick-off for SpaWeek 2007 on the West Coast while the East Coast must patiently wait until October 15-21st. During the week, participating spas will be offering $50 treatments that are normally $75-$250.

Yes, you are seeing this correct. In an effort to offer spa treatments to the masses, SpaWeek has organized over 400 spas to offer discounted treatments for this very special week. A list of the participating spas and the treatments they offer is posted on www.spaweek.org. After registering, you can research your options. Here is a sample of some of the treatments I found intriguing. If only there were more Central US locations...

• 50 Min Age Defense Facial Treatment
• 45 Min Detoxifying Pomegranate Body Treatment
• 55 Min Ocean View Egyptian Foot Awakening With Exfoliating Foot Scrub & Reflexology Massage

Once you see a treatment you want, call the spa directly to make your reservation. Call ASAP for the best selection and be sure to let them know that you are coming for SpaWeek. The spa will ask for your credit card number to secure the reservation. Present or not, you will be charged, so clear your schedule and arrive with enough time to relax beforehand and make the most of it. When it comes time to tip, do so on the full value of the service, not the discounted $50 SpaWeek rate.

If you yearn for more after you've indulged in SpaWeek, a spa vacation may be in order. If you want to relax and enjoy some spa services a Resort Spa may be right for you. If you want a full immersion spa experience, check out a Destination Spa. You will enjoy a full range of activities, healthy spa cuisine, a vast array of customized spa treatments, discovery classes and time for some R&R.