SheSue Experience

I have been having therapeutic massage for several years now. It was recommended by my acupuncturist when my arthritis started giving me more trouble and after I was in a minor car accident. Different from a relaxation massage, therapeutic massage is when they work out the knots and kinks. It can be quite painful at times, but in the long run, it helps me move easier. I go at least once a month, twice if I can fit it in.

On my last visit my therapist had been trying out massage using heated stones. After she had done the therapeutic work, she smoothed the stones all over my back. You’re back is already oiled up from the oil she uses to massage with. So the stones slide over your skin easily. She used 2 stones about 3 inches in diameter. It’s supposed to be relaxing and I guess it was – they were nice and warm. I guess I’m just used to her using her lotions that are just as relaxing.

What lotions does she use, you might ask. I’m hoping that I’m not the only baby boomer out there with a bathroom cabinet full of various lotions and creams. I don’t use any sort of drugs except ibuprofen, so I have tried out a variety of lotions. There’s one made from chili peppers that I use for my arthritis, but I kept getting it into my eyes and that wasn’t good. I’ve also used a variety of icy hot type creams. My favorites:

1. If you’ve done one too many push-ups or lifted a few too many rocks, I like the Blue-emu . It’s made with emu oil, aloe and glucosamine. It’s soothing and doesn’t have a nasty smell.
2. Now if I’ve moved a ton of rocks or gone several miles too many in a work-out, then I go for the Biofreeze. This stuff tingles a little when it first goes on, but then it soothes those aching muscles. This is also what my massage therapist uses on my neck after she massages the crap out of it.
3. Finally, if you waited too long and the pain has moved up to your head and have a nice headache along with muscle pain, then go for the Tiger Balm. It’s too late for cooling, you need the heat.