Health Article description.Music therapy is the use of music to gain physical and emotional healing and wellness. A trained and certified music therapist can provide music therapy. Therapy sessions can involve listening to music, music-making, or both. Music-making is a healthy way of expressing yourself.

Health Article description.Discusses aromatherapy (essential oils therapy) to treat disease. Includes oils that are put on the skin or in bath water, sprayed, inhaled, or massaged. Looks at uses to relax, relieve stress, and treat illness. Covers safety.

Health Article description.Physical therapists are health professionals who evaluate physical problems and injuries, then provide education and treatment to promote health and physical function. Physical therapists also develop programs that include exercise and stretching to increase fitness and prevent injury. A physical therapist provides...

Health Article description.Respiratory therapists (RTs) are health professionals who evaluate, treat, and care for people who have breathing problems. Respiratory therapists use oxygen, medicines, and mechanical measures such as chest percussion to help people breathe more effectively. Most respiratory therapists work under the direct supervision...

Health Article description.Manual therapy is a general term for treatment done mostly with the hands. The goals of manual therapy include relaxation, less pain, and more flexibility. Manual therapy can include: Massage. Pressure is applied to the soft tissues of the body, such as the muscles. Massage can help relax muscles, increase circulation...

Health Article description.Recreational therapists are health and rehabilitation professionals who provide treatment services and recreation activities to people who have disabilities or illnesses. They are also called therapeutic recreation specialists. Recreational therapists use arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement...

Health Article description.Physical therapy is treatment to improve mobility (such as walking, going up stairs, or getting in and out of bed), to relieve pain, and to restore physical function and overall fitness. The physical therapist uses exercise, manual therapy, education, and modalities such as heat, cold, and electrical stimulation to work...

Health Article description.Covers using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to identify and change behaviors that can make pain worse. Includes why it's used, how well it works, and any risks.

Health Article description.Light therapy is the main treatment for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It's used for other conditions too. It is exposure to light that is brighter than indoor light but not as bright as direct sunlight. The most common light therapy uses a special type of fluorescent light, called a light box. Light therapy is...

Health Article description.The terms counselor and therapist cover a variety of trained professionals. The differences between therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors may not be as important to you as finding someone with whom you are comfortable. Professionals who might provide counseling services include: Social workers (MSW...

Health Article description.Occupational therapists are health and rehabilitation professionals who help people regain, develop, and build skills that are important for independent functioning, health, well-being, security, and happiness. Occupational therapists work with people of all ages who, because of illness, injury, developmental delays, or...

Health Article description.Occupational therapy is treatment to help people live as independently as possible. Occupational therapists work with people of all ages who, because of illness, injury, developmental delays, or psychological problems, need assistance in learning skills to help them lead independent, productive, and satisfying lives...

Health Article description.A family member or friend could give you a massage. Or you could get a professional massage. In either case, there are things you can do to help make sure that the massage is safe. If you get a professional massage, tell your massage therapist that you are pregnant. Be sure that your massage therapist has special...

Health Article description.Provides tips for managing swelling from lymphedema. Covers symptoms to watch for, ways to keep lymph fluid moving, and tips for protecting and caring for the affected arm or leg.

Health Article description.Comprehensive rehabilitation (rehab) programs offer treatment for low back pain. They may use physical therapy, pain management with medicine and coping skills, and other medical treatments. These programs teach you how to care for your back and...

Health Article description.Discusses exercise, manual therapy, and education for chronic conditions like COPD or arthritis. Covers goals that include increasing flexibility, strength, and endurance. Covers what to expect.

Health Article description.Massage is rubbing the soft tissues of the body, such as the muscles. Therapists usually apply pressure with their hands but sometimes with the forearms, elbows, and feet. There are at least 80 types of massage. Some are gentle. Some are intense.

Health Article description.Learn tips for choosing a counselor or therapist for your child.

Health Article description.The purpose of physical therapy is to decrease your pain and help you slowly return to your normal activities. It may reduce pain in the soft tissues, such as your muscles, ligaments, and tendons. It may also improve function and build muscle...