Massage can be defined as a systematic and scientific ma­nipulation of the soft tissues of the body for the purpose of obtaining or maintaining health. The history of massage and healing touch is long and complex, with more than 75 differ­ent types of massage and bodywork, ageneric term used to describe massage and its various forms. Archaeological and historical evidence indicates that massage and healing touch have been practiced for thousands of years in all regions of the globe. Massage is instinctive. Itis a natural response to rub our aches and pains, whether or not we are familiar with the medical knowledge behind these actions. In modern health care, massage has taken on an important role. It has been shown beneficial to reduce stress, enhance blood circulation, decrease pain, promote sleep, reduce swelling, enhance re­ laxation, and increase oxygen capacity of the blood. Mas­ sage has also been recognized as a nondrug treatment for cancer and postoperative pain .