Since the field is vast, it’s essential to be clear about what type of massage you’re seeking. “It’s not a cookie-cutter. We’re not all equipped with the same expertise,” Angela Barker, massage therapist board-certified for therapy massage as well as bodywork says to SELF. “So do your homework, make some phone calls check out their websites and then make sure to ask them questions.”
Here are 10 benefits of massage.
If you love massages that are spa-like, that’s more than enough reasons to continue getting massages as long as it’s safe to do so in the future. But if you’re wondering whether massages offer other benefits for those with medical conditions–or if the amateur massages you love so much are actually doing anything, it is evident that they are helpful, depending on the conditions.
But let’s not let ourselves get carried away. Although there’s research to prove the benefits of massage, it’s not possible to request a massage instead of seeking medical treatment. While you may try to massage your head to relieve the occasional headache, or pressing your abdomen for relief a stomach ache might be feasible, you should speak to a professional if you’re seeking relief from discomfort due to a medical issue (even in the case of chatting with a massage therapist to learn massage tips for yourself). It is also recommended to speak with your primary healthcare physician prior to scheduling a massage for any specific condition or a specialist whom you consult regarding the condition that you’re concerned about. The research seems to support that massage therapy could help with the following:
1. Stress-relief and relaxation
The number one benefit of massage therapy is the relief from stress, Deery explains. It is necessary to find out how massage therapy affects cortisol-related stress hormones. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that massage therapy can reduce anxiety and increase relaxation.
2. Intimacy between couples
Physical touch does more than make you feel great. As SELF previously reported, several studies suggest that touch may lower blood pressure and increase hormones like oxytocin, which makes us feel good. In a study from 2020, a tiny study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that couples’ massages each other can benefit both the giver as well as the recipient. So, even if you’re looking for a therapeutic massage, if an ally and want to build a bond and bond, it’s a good idea to get some massage oil and use it on your partner (or to the reverse).
3. Constipation relief
If you’re struggling with constipation or other digestive issues it could be beneficial to massage your stomach. It can help alleviate some of your discomfort. A study released in Gastroenterology Nursing found that abdominal massages could help people suffering from post-surgery constipation move their bowels and feel better.
4. Fibromyalgia pain management
Patients with fibromyalgia are plagued by chronic discomfort, as well as sleep, memory and mood issues. Massage therapy isn’t the only cure for the condition it is, however, according to the Mayo Clinic says that it can be a complement to treatment (along with counseling, medications, and rehabilitation). Take note, however, that, in certain situations, 출장홈타이 therapy can cause pain as according to the Mayo Clinic explains. It’s best to chat with your primary physician regarding the benefits of massage for fibromyalgia, and make sure you discuss your condition with your massage therapist prior to.
5. Tension headache relief
A tension headache, also known as concentration headache, can appear as if there’s a tight wrap in your neck, as the Mayo Clinic explains. The exact cause isn’t recognized, but there’s evidence that massages can provide relief for this kind of headache, the Mayo Clinic says. It is specifically designed to ease muscle tension in your head, neck, and shoulders (which may help relieve discomfort from headaches).
6. It is a sign of insomnia (related in part to stress)
As we’ve mentioned earlier that massages are a great way to reduce stress, and diminished stress levels can aid in getting the body to sleep (though there are other habits that promote sleep, like making a ritual before bed and limiting time spent on screens prior to going to bed as well).
7. Myofascial pain syndrome management
Myofascial-related pain syndrome can be described as a chronic discomfort that causes the muscles you are putting pressure on can trigger pain (sometimes at places that don’t seem related) according to the Mayo Clinic explains. While there’s not a cure for it, some sufferers do gain from getting a physical therapist or massage therapist focus on the areas that they’re suffering from pain, to ease muscle tension, according to the Mayo Clinic explains.
8. Muscle soreness and strain
If your muscles are painful and affected by inflammation, a massage may aid in bringing blood flow to the area (and encourage recovery) according to a meta-analysis research study in 2015 published in the journal Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine.
9. Joint pain and arthritis relief
Arthritis involves swelling and pain in your joints and joints, the Mayo Clinic says. As your massage therapist kneads and massages muscles, blood is pumped to your joints. This may provide temporary relief according to according to the Mayo Clinic explains. Be sure to inform them that you suffer from arthritis prior to the massage therapy session, so that your therapist knows how to guide you through the ways you could work together.
10. Circulation during pregnancy
Getting a massage during pregnancy can boost circulation, according to American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Be sure to consult with your doctor prior an appointment. Make sure to inform the massage therapist that you’re pregnant (even even if you’re not showing).
