Because the subject is so wide, it’s crucial to know the 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 be sure to research Make a few calls, check their websites and make sure to ask them questions.”
Here are the top 10 benefits of massage.
If you love 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 people suffering from medical issues, or if those amateur rubdowns that you love so much actually have any benefit, it is evident that they are useful, depending on conditions.
But don’t be carried away. Although there’s research that supports the benefits of massage, it’s not possible to schedule a massage instead of seeking medical treatment. Even though you may try the head with a massage to ease the occasional headache, or massage your abdomen to alleviate an abdominal pain may be feasible, you should seek out a professional when you’re seeking relief from discomfort due to a medical issue (even when you’re just having a chat with a therapist for massage tips for yourself). Also, it’s a good idea to consult your primary physician before scheduling a massage session for any specific condition or a specialist that who you consult for the issue that you’re concerned about. There is evidence to show the idea that massage therapy can aid with these issues:
1. Stress relief and relaxation
The primary benefit of massage therapy is the relief from stress, Deery explains. There is more to be done to discover the exact extent to which massage therapy can reduce stress hormones such as cortisol. However, research suggests massages aid in reducing stress and encouraging relaxation.
2. Intimacy between couples
Physical contact can do more than simply make us feel better. According to SELF has previously stated, numerous studies have shown that physical contact may lower blood pressure and boost hormones such as oxytocin that helps us feel better. In a study from 2020, a tiny study that was published by the Journal of Health Psychology found that couples’ massages one another are beneficial to the person who gives the massage and also for the recipient. Therefore, even if not seeking an actual medical massage, if there’s someone you’re looking to share your space with and wish to make a connection and bond, it’s a good idea to get the massage oil and apply it on the other (or in reverse).
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 that was published in Gastroenterology Nursing found that abdominal massages helped patients suffering from constipation following surgery improve their bowel movements and feel better.
4. Fibromyalgia pain management
Fibromyalgia sufferers experience constant discomfort, as well as memory, sleep and mood-related symptoms. Although massage therapy isn’t a cure for the disease however, it is a treatment option. Mayo Clinic says that it can be a complement to treatment (along with counseling, medication and exercise). Remember that in certain situations massage therapy could increase the severity of your pain as The Mayo Clinic explains. It’s best to speak with your primary physician regarding the possible benefits of massage therapy for fibromyalgia. ensure that you talk about 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 over your head. as the Mayo Clinic explains. The reason for this isn’t completely known, however there is evidence to suggest that massages can offer relief from this type of headache, as the Mayo Clinic says. In particular, massages help to alleviate tension in your neck, head and shoulders (which could help alleviate pain).
6. The sleep disorder (related with stress)
As we’ve mentioned earlier massages can reduce the stress level, and lower stress levels can aid in getting sleeping (though you can also incorporate other habits that promote sleep, like making a ritual before bed and limiting time spent on screens prior to you go to bed also).
7. Myofascial treatment for pain syndrome
Myofascial-related pain syndrome can be described as a long-lasting pain disorder in which tension on muscles can result in discomfort (sometimes in areas that don’t appear to be related) according to according to the Mayo Clinic explains. Although there’s no cure for it, some sufferers do get benefits from using a physical therapist, or massage therapist focus on 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 painful and affected by inflammation, a massage may assist in bringing blood flow into 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 Reviews in Musculoskeletal Disease.
9. Temporary joint and arthritis relief
Arthritis is a condition that causes swelling and pain in joints as The Mayo Clinic says. When your registered massage therapist in Vancouver rubs as they massage muscles, blood flow to joints, which can offer some temporary relief according to according to the Mayo Clinic explains. Make sure you mention that you have arthritis prior to your massage therapy session to ensure that your therapist knows how to talk you through ways to collaborate.
10. Circulation during pregnancy
A massage during pregnancy can boost circulation, according to American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Be sure to consult with your doctor prior to booking an appointment. Make sure to inform your massage therapist you’re expecting (even even if you’re not pregnant).