The practice of massage therapy is the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissues and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain. During the initial visit, the massage therapist will take a detailed health history and perform an in depth assessment. This will enable the therapist to develop an individualized treatment plan that will be consistent with the patient goals. Massage therapy has a therapeutic effect on the body by working on the muscular, nervous, and circulatory systems. Pain, dysfunction, and stress can be relieved and reversed with massage.