Florida Hospital Celebration Health (see more articles like this)

Betty Guidash would normally have her hand massages done at the spa, but during her stay at Florida Hospital Celebration Health; the spa is brought to her.

The Day Spa at Florida Hospital’s Celebration Health is now offering in-room spa treatments for non-acute care patients. Services include hand and arm massage, manicure, foot massage and polish change. For about $20/hour patients can feel the difference when a soothing touch is added to their regular rehabilitation routine.

Florida Hospital Celebration Health is implementing the new treatments based on several studies that show how patients benefit from touch with the intention to heal. Massage assists in venous flow by improving circulation, helps move lymph which prevents edema and boosts the immune system, reduces anxiety, improves mood, improves sleep and increases hemoglobin.

“Our hospital has always been known for its high-tech approach to health care; now we’re combining the soft-tech approach as well,” said John Moore, co-director of Celebration Health Fitness Center and Day Spa.

“The patients really love it,” said Lina Mukina, Celebration Health massage therapist and RN. “I have seen these massage treatments lower patients’ blood pressure, decrease heart rates, improve sleep patterns and much more. It’s great that I can help people heal by doing something that they truly enjoy.”

As for the popularity of the spa treatments, Moore says that they are currently expanding their “menu” of services to meet the patients’ rising demands. “People are beginning to see the connection that when they look and feel good, they heal faster; and we are thrilled that we get to be a part of that healing process.”