Since the field is vast, it’s essential to know what kind of massage you’re looking for. “It’s not a cookie-cutter. There aren’t any of us with the exact same qualifications,” Angela Barker, Massage therapist board-certified in the therapeutic use of bodywork and massage informs SELF. “So make sure you do your research and make a few phone calls, browse their websites and then inquire about their services.”
Here are the top 10 benefits of massage.
If you like massages in spa-like settings there’s plenty of incentive to continue receiving massages when it’s safe to continue to do so in the near future. However, if you’re wondering if massages can provide additional benefits for those with medical conditions, or if the routine rubdowns that you love so much actually have any benefit, it appears that they could be beneficial, depending on the conditions.
But don’t be carried away. While there’s evidence that supports the benefits of massage, it’s not possible to request a massage instead of seeking medical treatment. While you may try the head with a massage in order to alleviate occasional headaches or massaging your abdomen to ease the pain in your stomach is possible, you’ll need to consult a professional if you’re trying to ease discomfort due to a medical issue (even when you’re just having a chat with a therapist for self-massage advice). In addition, you must consult your primary care physician prior to scheduling a massage to treat an ailment that’s specific to you or a specialist who you consult for the issue of concern. There is evidence to show the idea that massage therapy can aid with these issues:
1. Stress relief and relaxation
The most important benefit of massage therapy is the relief from stress, Deery explains. There is more to be done to determine the exact extent to which massage therapy can reduce stress hormones such as cortisol. However, research suggests massages reduce stress and promote relaxation.
2. Intimacy between couples
Physical touch can do more than simply make us feel better. It is also a source of relaxation. SELF has previously stated, a number of studies show that physical touch may lower blood pressure as well as increase hormones, such as oxytocin. This can make us feel happy. A small study in 2020 released in the Journal of Health Psychology found that couples’ massages one another are beneficial to the person giving the massage as well as the one receiving it. Even if you’re not seeking the medical benefits of a massage, if there’s someone you’re looking to share your space with and wish to connect and bond, it’s a good idea to grab the massage oil and apply it on their bodies (or the other way around).
3. Relief from constipation
If you’re suffering from constipation or any other digestive issue and stomach issues, a massage may assist in relieving discomfort. A study released in Gastroenterology Nursing found that abdominal massages could help people suffering from constipation after surgery to get their bowels moving and feel more comfortable.
4. Fibromyalgia pain management
Fibromyalgia sufferers experience constant discomfort, as well as memory, sleep and mood issues. Massage therapy isn’t the only cure for the disease but according to the Mayo Clinic says that it can be a complement to treatment (along with counseling, medication as well as exercise). Be aware that in certain situations massage therapy could cause pain according to what The Mayo Clinic explains. It is recommended to talk with your primary physician regarding the benefits that could be derived from massage therapy for fibromyalgia. Also, be sure to discuss your health issue to your massage practitioner prior to.
5. Relief from tension headaches
Tension headaches, also known as a concentration headache can be like having an elastic band on your forehead, as the Mayo Clinic explains. The reason for this isn’t completely known, however there is evidence that massages may provide relief from this kind headache, the Mayo Clinic says. Particularly, it can help ease tension in your neck, head and shoulders (which could help alleviate pain).
6. Sleepiness (related to anxiety)
Like we said earlier that massages have a positive impact on stress levels, and reducing stress levels can encourage the body to sleep (though it is possible to incorporate additional ways to improve your sleep habits, such as the importance of a routine before bed, and limiting time spent on screens prior to going to bed too).
7. Myofascial treatment of pain syndrome
Myofascial-related pain syndrome can be described as a long-lasting discomfort that causes tension on muscles may cause discomfort (sometimes in areas that don’t appear to be related) according to according to the Mayo Clinic explains. While there’s no cure it, some sufferers appreciate using a physical therapist, or massage therapist treat the areas that they’re experiencing pain , to ease tension in the muscles, as The Mayo Clinic explains.
8. Sore muscles and tension
If your muscles are aching and affected by inflammation, a massage may aid in bringing blood flow to the affected area (and help to speed up the healing process) according to a study of meta-analysis from 2015 published in the journal Current Review in Musculoskeletal Medicine.
9. Joint pain and arthritis relief
Arthritis can cause pain and swelling in joints according to The Mayo Clinic says. While your massage therapist massages as they massage muscles, blood is pumped to joints, which could bring some relief for a short period according to according to the Mayo Clinic explains. Be sure to inform them the fact that you suffer from arthritis prior to the massage therapy session, so your therapist is able to guide you through ways to cooperate.
10. Circulation during pregnancy
A massage during pregnancy can help improve circulation, according the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Be sure to consult with your doctor prior to booking an appointment. Make certain to inform your registered massage therapist in Vancouver you’re expecting (even when you’re not visible).