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Chattanooga Massage & Bodyworks

4220 Dayton Blvd Suite A Chattanooga, TN 37415 phone: (423) 870-8611
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
I recently encountered an ad on craigslist for someone wanting an un-draped massage. This is the ad in it's entirety:

Date: 2009-04-20, 11:21PM EDT

Is there a massage provider in the Chattanooga area that does not require the use of a drape? Note that I am NOT looking for sexual services. I get much more enjoyment out of the massage without the therapist having to worry about a drape. Both I and the therapist are professionals, so I don't understand the requirement of a drape between two professional adults.

I have researched the use of the drape, and my reading of the TN regulations is that TN does not require a drape. http://www.state.tn.us/sos/rules/0870/0870-01.pdf (Part 3- Draping) simply says the therapist must explain expected draping techniques and provide clean drapes. "Expected draping" does not mean draping is required (if this was the case, the regulations would say so). It simply means each therapist can set his/her own requirements. The web site of Full Throttle Massage says the regulations also require "At no time will genitalia, and in the case of female clients the breasts, be exposed during the massage." However, I do not see anywhere in the TN regs that states this.

I would like any therapist that does not require the drape to please respond back. Gender is unimportant. And again, please note that this is NOT a solicitation for sexual services. "

This is my response:

Date: 2009-04-21, 1:20PM EDT


In response to the person wanting an un-draped massage.

Tennessee Massage Licensure Board

Rule 0870-1-.02

Section 3 Draping

(a) Each massage establishment shall maintain a sufficient supply of clean drapes, for
the purpose of draping each client while the client is being massaged. As used herein
“drapes” means towels, gowns, or sheets.

(b) Before proceeding with a massage to the client, each massage therapist shall have
explained to the client expected draping techniques and provide the client a clean
drape large enough for the purpose of draping the buttocks and genitalia and in the
case of a female client the breasts.

Sub-section (a) states: an establishment shall maintain a supply of clean drapes
for the purpose of draping each client while the client is being massaged.
Sub-section (b) states the drape shall be large enough for the purpose of draping
the buttocks, genitalia, and in the case of female clients, the breasts. The operative word in
this regulation is shall, as defined in Webster’s dictionary:
shall v. 1. (first person) expressing the future: am or are going to or sure to. 2. (second and third person) must.

So, according to the rule we MUST supply a clean drape for the purpose of draping each client while the client is being massaged.

At Full Throttle Massage, Inc. we site that we abide by the policies set forth in
the Rules of Tennessee Massage Licensure Board.

Following this citation we explain our office policies regarding draping policies, which states in Draping Policy #4 “At no time will
genitalia, and in the case of female clients the breasts, be exposed during the massage.

We want our clients to feel confident in the fact that their modesty will be protected at all times. See our Massage Draping Photos for a photographic depiction of proper darping proceedures.

My personal response to the person who wrote “massage wanted”:

I respect your wish to have an un-draped massage. All Tennessee Licensed Massage Therapists (LMT’s) are required to provide draping, as explained earlier.
An LMT is a professional who has attended school and has to maintain continuing education in order to practice massage. We take great pride in our
profession and have invested a great deal of time and effort to become massage therapists. You may be able to find an unlicensed massage therapist to
perform the massage you desire but please keep in mind these factors:
  • An unlicensed therapist is not a professional
  • An unlicensed therapist is breaking the law in TN by providing massage (for money)
  • An unlicensed therapist may not be aware of a contraindication to massage you may have
  • An unlicensed therapist providing massage to a person who is contraindicated to massage can cause serious injury or death to that person

    Sincerely, 
    Daniel J. Brownell, LMT
  • Monday, February 23, 2009

    By: Daniel J Brownell

    © Copyright 2008 Full Throttle Massage, Inc.

    Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is real illness and affects people in different ways. It is caused after seeing or living through a traumatic or dangerous event. Veterans of war often suffer with PTSD because of the war time environment and the horrors they have to endure.

    Does this mean only veterans can have PTSD? Absolutely not, any stressful event can cause PTSD. A serious car accident, a hurricane or flood, fire, violent crime, can all cause PTSD. The points is, if you have witnessed or lived through such an event and are still feeling stressed or afraid weeks, months, or years after the danger has passed you may have PTSD.

    Only your doctor can diagnose if you have PTSD. If you suffer from any of the following symptoms it is highly recommended you seek professional help.

    PTSD SYMPTOMS[1]

    ·         Bad dreams
    ·         Flashbacks, or the feeling the event is happening again
    ·         Scary thoughts you can’t control
    ·         Staying away from places and things that remind you of what happened
    ·         Feeling worried, sad, or guilty
    ·         Feeling alone
    ·         Trouble sleeping
    ·         Feeling on edge
    ·         Angry outbursts
    ·         Thoughts of hurting yourself or others

    If you have any of these symptoms you should consult with your doctor or a mental health professional.

    How can Massage Help With PTSD?

    PTSD is an anxiety disorder caused by a stressful event. There are medications that help with PTSD. The trouble with medications they can have a variety of side effects. Massage is a holistic way of approaching PTSD with out any of the harmful side effects that medication may have. It is best to consult with your doctor before you start any form of treatment.

    Massage provides emotional and physical benefits. Research has proven that massage can reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. We all need human touch; this is part of our genetic make up. When dealing with emotional disturbances; touch is an integral part of the healing process. Massage is one way that provides this healing touch.

    Massage Reduces Stress

    Studies show that massage can alleviate the physical symptoms of stress. Massage helps reduce muscle tension and pain, lowers blood pressure, and promotes deep breathing. Massage creates a general sense of well-being and promotes relaxation. This will help increase sensitivity to the state of the body; making it easier to determine when to a person should engage in de-stressing activities.

    Massage Relieves Anxiety

    Receiving massage reduces anxiety by promoting a sense of calmness. The soothing touch of a caring massage therapist goes a lot further than just the physical relief of symptoms. Anxiety can create a nervous tension in ones mind that seems unexplainable. Massage helps a person achieve a sense of calmness; thereby relieving the mental nervousness.

    Massage Helps Depression

    As more people are seeking alternatives to medications and the side effects they cause; research studies are demonstrating the healing effects of massage in cases of depression. Massage helps promote detoxification of the body by increasing blood and lymph flow. Massage also helps the body release hormones and neurochemicals that help regulate ones mood. Emotional balance is vital for people suffering with depression. The caring touch of a massage therapist helps provide that emotional balance. When a balance of the mind and body is achieved; ones quality of life is improved.

    When To Seek Help For PTSD?

    If you think you have PTSD you should consult with you doctor or a mental health professional. Ask them if massage therapy would be a viable means of treatment.



    [1] National Institute of Mental Health

    Do you or a loved one suffer from PTSD? Schedule an appointment today at Full Throttle Massage, Inc. and let us help you. We offer a 20% discount for veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, and healthcare professionals. Call (423) 870-8611.
    Monday, February 23, 2009

    By: Daniel J Brownell

    © Copyright 2008 Full Throttle Massage, Inc.

    Pain is experienced by everyone at some point in their lives. It is the human body's way of telling you something is wrong. Pain is a very individual experience and depends on one's own tolerance to pain. The levels of pain can range from mild to extreme.

    The focus of this article will be on chronic pain and how to find relief.

    Types Of Pain

    There are two basic types of pain, they are acute and chronic.

  • Acute pain is the sudden onset of pain. This type of pain is usually a sharp pain and an indication that something is wrong. Acute pain is associated with the body's response to disease, broken bones, burns, cuts, sprains/strains of ligaments and muscles, and other various injuries. Mild acute pain can last a few moments, while extreme acute pain may last for weeks. Acute pain will disappear once the symptoms have been treated and healed. If acute pain is left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain.
  • Chronic pain is persistent. It remains regardless of the fact that the original injury has healed. The nervous system retains these pain signals and they can last indefinitely if left untreated. Chronic pain can also be the result of serious illness or disease.

    Effects Of Chronic Pain

    Chronic pain has many effects on the body; both physical and mental.
    The physical effects typically have symptoms like: muscle tension, lack of joint mobility, loss of or changes in appetite.

    The mental effects of chronic pain symptoms include: depression, anxiety, anger (why me?), and the fear of re-injury. This fear may limit a persons willingness to return to work if the original injury was work related. It may also limit the individuals leisure activities if the original injury occurred during such an event.

    Diagnosing Chronic Pain

    If you believe you are suffering from chronic pain you should consult with your family physician to have the pain properly diagnosed. This will ensure there are no underlying problems that if left untreated could result in a more serious condition.

    Chronic Pain Relief

    There are many forms of relief for chronic pain. Every individual can achieve different results with each type of treatment. Relief from chronic pain depends on individual beliefs, what they're accustomed to, and how willing they are to take an active part in managing their pain. Relief from chronic pain can be achieved from (but not limited to):
  •  


    To read the rest of this article please visit www.fullthrottlemassage.com

  • Wednesday, January 14, 2009
    Enlarged Prostate: Use Saw Palmento, Pygeum and Stinging Nettle. For PMS: Red Clover, Trifolium Pratense has large amounts of Phyto-Oestrogens, Plant Oestrogens called Isoflavones, which are not a hormone but resemble the female sex hormone enough to have a therapeutic effect. Red Clover can be used in the relief of the symptoms of PMS, Uterine Fibroids and Endometriosis, and also Menopause.

    Some foods foods that contain Isoflavines, such as fruit, vegetables, soy and flaxseed,and Red Clover may reduce the risk of cancer. If pregnant or breast feeding, do not take Red Clover.

    St johns Wort is a popular treatment for depression, but does not work as good as first thought. DO NOT take St johns Wort if you are already taking an antidepression prescription from your doctor.

    Yohimbe, a herb from the bark of a West African tree is said to be a male aphrodisiac. This does not work very well and has some dangerous side effects including dizzyness, nausea, anxiety and a drop in blood pressure.

    If you prefer natural as opposed to chemical remedies, you really should consult with a herbalist, your health shop or your doctor before trying anything that that you are unsure of. You may be doing more harm than good, and you need to know the correct amount to take and the proper duration. Most herbs that are available now in health shops should be standardised. Meaning each and every bottle or pack contains the same strength and ingredients for each unit of the same product.

    Just be careful with herbs, and remember, don't experiment with anything you don't understand. Get some advice first to be on the safe side. You would not and should not self medicate with conventional drugs, and if you plan on taking anything stronger than parsley tablets ( they are excellent to assist in preventing colds), then you really should get some qualified advice.
    Wednesday, January 14, 2009
    Up to the eighteenth century, herbal medicine was the usual form of medical treatment. Even nearly 20% of all medicines that are prescribed are plant based. Primitive tribes still use their traditional knowledge of plant's healing properties that are thousands of years old. Egyptians, the ancient Greeks, and Romans were using herbal medicines, and of course the Chinese. Today, herbal medicine is spread, world wide and there are many professional herbalist clinics. Herbal medicine can benefit people suffering from many kinds of illnesses including arthritis, migraine and skin disorders. These herbal remedies usually take a longer time to work as they are less concentrated than conventional drugs.

    Herbs help enhance the body's own healing powers. Some herbs assist in pain relief, like Boswellia, Capsaicin, Tumeric, Devils Claw and Feverfew Leaves. Peppermint, Chamomile, Ginger, Licorice Root and Milk Thistle aid the digestion. For boosting the immunity, Echinacea, Astragalus, Maitake, Shiitake and Reishi Mushrooms are used. Tea Tree oil, oil of Oregano and Goldenseal are used for wounds and infection. For heart health, you can use Garlic, Hawthorn Flower Extract and Red Yeast Rice, and for the circulation, Ginkgo Biloba, Butchers Broom, Horse Chestnut and Gotu Kola.

    Ginkgo Biloba and Gotu Kola are said to improve memory, while for your mood, use St johns Wort, Valerian and Kava. Cranberry and Uva-ursi is used for bladder infections. If you drink tea often you may have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke and cancer. Green tea has a high level of antioxidant called EGCG. Some scientists say this is a potent anti cancer compound. Green tea leaves are not fermented like the black teas so all of the antioxidants are preserved. You can get the capsules if you don't like to drink green tea.
    Wednesday, January 14, 2009
    By Antoinette Boulay

    Aromatherapy is natural, easy to use and healing. Mankind has been using aromatherapy for centuries; for many years before modern medications were available. People from many cultures have revealed astonishing uses for the essential oils. You may think that aromatherapy is only for use in spiritual rites, or for nutcases who avoid modern medicine, but it is not the case.

    Even people who consult doctors regularly can get much from aromatherapy. Common and widely available oils are good to keep around the house for health, and tea tree oil is almost certainly the most widespread.

    It can be used for soothing skin irritations, fighting acne and skin blemishes and relief for insect bites. There are oils that can help fight off colds and congestion. Peppermint or eucaplyus can be rubbed on your body to help break up chest congestions.

    It can be used for massage. Many spas specialize in them, and some lucky people have a partner who gives a good massage. You can augment your massage experience with essential oils, using aromatherapy by either rubbing the oils into your skin, or putting them in a diffuser and breathe in the scents. Never had an aromatherapy massage? Find a local spa that can specialize in this kind of massage and give it a try, it is relaxing for the body and mind.

    There are many ways these oils can be used for home remedies. You can put a fee drops in your bath for a soothing touch, or diffuse them in an oil burner for healing fumes. Different oils are useful for different ailments. You can find relief from skin conditions like acne, burns, athlete's foot, cuts, exzema, herpes and poison ivy. Minor irritating conditions such as earaches, congestion, muscle pains and toothaches are amenable to soothing calming scents.

    Find the essential oils that you like best and try them out around the house. Check out the diverse types of diffusers available. Once you get used to it, you will love what this type of therapy can do for your mind, body and spirit.

    Learn more at Medopedia.com about aromatherapy massage and essential oils.

    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Antoinette_Boulay
    Tuesday, January 13, 2009
    By Alicia Barwick

    Essential oils are the natural aromatic compounds that can be found in different parts of plants including the stems, seeds, flowers, roots or bark. These oils are non water-based phyto-chemicals that are made up of volatile organic compounds. They are fat-soluble but unlike many vegetable and animal oils, they do not contain fatty lipids. Their fragrances vary from mild to strong. Pure essential oils are translucent. They can be colorless or some shade of blue. The best feature of essential oils is that they are very clean and our body absorbs them quickly.

    Here are some examples of the uses of these amazing oils:
    • Frankincense, long used as a holy oil, in now used therapeutically in European and American hospitals. May help with overcoming stress and depression. May help to strengthen the immune system.
    • Lemon may help to improve circulation, may boost energy, and may act as and antiseptic.
    • Peppermint may be used as a digestive aid to help relieve upset stomach.
    • Lavendar is the most versatile of all essential oils. Used for calming, relaxing, and balancing.
    • Oregano may serve as an Immune enhancing antioxidant.
    • Melaleuca, also know as tea tree oil, may help support the immune system and serve as an anti-fungal.
    As seen from the above examples, essential oils are powerful and effective tools. They are gaining popularity today and finding their way into every day use. Visit http://www.orderessentialoils.com for more information about essential oils.

    As always, consult your physician or doctor before use of these oils. Anything mentioned in this article not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure diseases.

    Essential oils

    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alicia_Barwick
    Tuesday, January 13, 2009
    By Maria Margaret Low

    There are a number of ways to diffuse essential oils. One of the most powerful approaches is to use a nebulizer. A nebulizer breaks essential oils into separate molecules before dispersing the smaller molecules into the room. These smaller molecules can be more readily absorbed by the lungs and thus create greater therapeutic value than by use of other diffusion methods.

    A nebulizer consists of two main parts: the plastic base that contains the motor and a glass bottle. Disadvantages to this method are that the glass piece is breakable and expensive to replace. Cleaning the glass between different oils can also be very time-consuming. Depending on the style of nebulizer, thick oils such as sandalwood and patchouli may clog certain style nebulizers.

    In allopathic medicine, a nebulizer is a device used to administer medication to people in the form of a mist inhaled into the lungs. It is commonly used in treating cystic fibrosis, asthma, and other respiratory diseases. Jet nebulizers are also called atomizers. Jet nebulizers are connected by tubing to a compressed air source that causes air or oxygen to blast at high velocity through a liquid medicine to turn it into an aerosol, which is then inhaled by the patient.

    As a general rule, doctors most commonly prescribe metered-dose inhalers for their patients, largely because these are more convenient and portable than nebulizers. However, jet nebulizers are commonly used in hospital settings for patients who have difficulty using inhalers, such as in serious cases of respiratory disease, or severe asthma attacks. Even for healthy individuals, diffusing essential oils promotes relaxation, relieves tension, clears the mind and improves concentration, alertness and mental clarity. Use a diffuser to improve your concentration in your office or to help your children focus on their homework each night.

    Other ways to diffuse essential oils include compresses, stone diffusers or terra cotta diffusers. Compresses can also be made by placing essential oils on a clean cloth. The compress can be used on the chest for inhalation. Certain types of clay also work well as diffusers, either heated or at room temperature. Personal diffusers can be purchased that use the body's own heat to continuously diffuse oils. Stone diffusers operate at a low hear and slowly diffuse oils into the immediate environment. Try whichever method fits your lifestyle!

    Maria Low has twenty-five years of experience teaching and consulting in the natural health field. She has taken extensive training in both Europe and the United States. Maria lectures and travels internationally throughout the year. For more information about her Aspirations LLC business and to find out how to purchase essential oils, please visit http://www.aspirationsllc.com or her blog at http://aspirationsllc.com/MyBlog

    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maria_Margaret_Low
    Tuesday, January 13, 2009
    By Eric B Chen

    Many people understand the "medicinal" value of certain plants and herbs and most of us have used aloe vera gel (from an aloe vera plant) at one point or another. But, did you also know that there are many flowers that can treat certain ailments or conditions and can improve your quality of life without the need for prescribed pharmaceuticals that are often unnatural and can have unpleasant side effects. If you have a medical condition, you may want to consider some of these ancient remedies and perhaps they will do the trick for you and make you feel better without having to rely on drugs or chemicals.
    • Begonias. These lovely plants can be made into tea to help eliminate toxins from the body and promote better circulation. Begonias blossoms also help ease the pain of burns and cuts and speed healing.
    • California Poppy. This flower calms nerves by easing anxiety and tension. It also helps promote better sleep.
    • Chrysanthemum. Tea brewed from these flowers can help ease the misery of cold and fever and helps ease headaches. The same mix can also be used to reduce eye puffiness.
    • Dandelion. Not the "weed" we think it is, dandelion flower tea treats jaundice and anemia by helping purify the blood.
    • Honeysuckle. Sore throats and arthritis are eased by the anti-inflammatory properties of honeysuckle flowers.
    • Plum flowers. Interestingly, the smoke from plum flowers helps treat parasites. It is also a potent treatment for ulcers.
    • Rose. The beautiful rose improves circulation, depression and helps those with asthma breathe better.
    • Sunflower. Sunflower tea helps ease ulcer and sore throat pain and is an effective canker sore remedy.
    • Valerian. This wonder flower treats anxiety and helps promote healthy sleep patterns. It also treats migraines, headaches and the pain of rheumatic fever.
    • Yarrow. Just smelling the yarrow is helpful for treating mild asthma. It helps treat upper respiratory problems and cold and flu by minimizing congestion. Yarrow can also be used to treat eczema.
    For mild ailments and medical problems, there are multiple, flower-based natural remedies and treatments that offer all the benefits without the nasty side effects that can come from prescription or over-the-counter drugs. You will want to share with your doctor any of the flower-based treatments you choose to ensure they do not conflict with any of your other prescriptions or treatments but for many people, these flowers offer more promise and relief than Western medicine could ever offer.

    What to do next? Buy your flowers from our Toronto Flower Shop.

    Toronto Florist, Deliver Flowers in Toronto Area
    Tuesday, January 13, 2009
    By Raymond Edeh

    "If music is the medicine of the soul let it play on", so said a playwright. I think the made the statement because probably he got some relieve from music. Music has some strange healing ability. Read on you will understand the picture I'm trying to paint.

    Research has shown that stress can be handled by music. Music enters into the brain cells thus affecting the human brain. Medical scientists have proved that a person that is stressed out can actually listen to some kind of music and become well. How? The researchers said that since stress comes as a result of life events such as starting a new family, starting a new business, starting a new job, and relocating to a new place, one can actually listen to good music and feel good because as stress touches the human mind negatively so good music also touches the human mind positively. Music helps you to forget the stressful life events and remember the momentous events that once happened in your life.

    Depression is a disease caused by so many factors including stress, alcoholic addiction, drug abuse or addiction, smoking, social problems such as unemployment, family crisis, divorce, conflict, and imprisonment. Depression is also caused by economic problems such as poverty, and failure in business. Depression is characterized by weakness, headache, confusion, and loss of concentration. Good music makes one to remember happy moments or good days; if you play music about love it makes you feel like falling in love again though you have had several heartbreaks. And such good feeling makes you healthy.

    Anxiety is another health problem that can be controlled by music. Anxiety is a side effect of some major health problems such as cancer of the liver and cancer of the breast. Good music makes you feel relaxed and eliminates the pains inherited from these diseases. It removes every factor responsible for anxiety and makes you feel all right.

    Cool good music helps to control your breathing and heart rate. Poor breathing rate could be as a result of lung problems such as common cold, tuberculosis, and pneumonia. Good music helps to calm down the cells and tissues that make up the lungs thereby bringing down the patient's breathing and heart rate to normal.

    Good music can send you to sleep. And you need to know that sleep puts your body in a healthy condition. Sleep takes away the effects of stress, depression and anxiety from a person.

    You don't have to underrate the power of good music. It performs unimaginable wonders. I think music should be classified as one of the wonders of the world. It is a universal language spoken by everyone across the world. Play good music when you feel unhealthy and it will certainly ease off some of those nasty pains.

    If you really want to be helped to navigate through the adversities and challenges you and your loved ones face following a stroke and other life-altering health conditions, go to this blog now: Health Niche Articles. It is the top resource on health advice and tips courtesy of Award Winning health guru.

    Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Raymond_Edeh http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Health-Benefits-of-Listening-to-Music&id=1854510
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