Taking a look at the Neck
If you’re coming to me for Massage Therapy, I want to make sure I spend some time on your neck even if you don’t have pain there. I’ve often explained that the neck is the first place the brain exiting as the spinal cord attaches. It drains 2/3 of the body’s lymphatics, and is a contributing cause to headaches, jaw and arm pain.
Do you know much about the Thyroid gland? This small butterfly gland is found at the front of the neck and helps control metabolism.
Two important hormones T3 (Triiodothyronine) and T4 (Thyroxin) help the cells work properly. When we need more energy it sends out messages to increase metabolism by consuming stored oxygen and nutrients.
Did you know the Thyroid needs iodine to work properly? We don’t make it, we have to get it from our diet.
The pituitary found deep in the brain, also referred to as the Master gland senses hormones in our blood and commands our thyroid through another hormone (TSH) to function.
What’s your guess?
When the thyroid has: disease, growths or imbalances it can confuse the messages it receives.
Have you heard of Hyperthyroidism? Hypothyroidism?
Try and guess which symptoms belongs to which condition:
(a) hyperactivity (can include hunger, fast heart beat, hot/sweating), mood swings/irritability, trouble sleeping, unexpected weight loss (too many hormones)
(b) low energy, weight gain (including obesity), feeling cold, joint pain, infertility, and heart disease. (too few hormones released)
If you guessed Hyper is (a) and Hypo is (b) – You’re Right!
There are many neck conditions massage therapy is a great option for including; treating sore muscles, restricted movement, or when you feel like your “neck is out”.
Through a review of your history and performing an assessment, a treatment plan is created for you followed by remedial exercises tailored specifically to help your progress after the treatment. Your Goals are My Goals!