Massage, as a form of medical therapy, is almost as old as time. Words with phonetics similar to 'massage' can be found in ancient French, Arabic, Greek and Latin writings. The practice of massage seems to have originated in ancient cultures of India, China, Mesopotamia and perhaps a few others. It involves manoeuvres on the surface of the body to affect the tissues on the surface and beneath, especially muscles, tendons and ligaments. The masseur uses hands or simple tools (eg, Stones) designed to create friction, rubbing, pressure, kneading. Depending on the site of the body being massaged, the masseur may use elbows, knees and even his/her feet. Massage is designed to improve function, relax 'tired' muscles making them supple and helps with healing of injured or diseased tissues. It promotes a general feeling of relaxation and well-being. As a form of therapy it is formally recognised in many health systems with an annual turnover running into billions in any currency.
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