Because the subject is so wide, it’s crucial to know what kind of massage you’re seeking. “It’s not a cookie-cutter. There aren’t any of us with the exact same qualifications,” Angela Barker, Massage therapist board-certified in therapy massage as well as bodywork says to SELF. “So make sure you do your research Make a few phone calls, browse their websites and then make sure to ask them questions.”
Here are the top 10 benefits of massage.
If you like massages in spa-like settings it’s a good reason to continue to get massages when it’s safe to continue to do so in the near future. If you’re wondering whether massages offer additional benefits for people suffering from medical conditions, or if the routine massages you enjoy so much are actually doing anything, it appears that they could be beneficial, depending on the situation.
However, we shouldn’t get caught up in. Although there’s research to prove the benefits of massage, you shouldn’t schedule a massage instead of seeking medical assistance. Even though you may try the head with a massage to ease occasional headaches or massage your abdomen to alleviate the pain in your stomach is possible, you’ll need to consult a professional if you’re seeking relief from the pain that is due to a medical issue (even even if you’re just talking with a therapist for self-massage advice). In addition, you must consult your primary care physician prior to scheduling a massage to treat any specific condition or a specialist who you consult for the issue of concern. However, there is research to prove the fact that massage therapy may help with these issues:
1. Relaxation and stress relief
The most important benefit of massage therapy is the relief from stress, Deery explains. It is necessary to discover the exact extent to which massage therapy decreases stress hormones, such as cortisol. However, research suggests massages reduce stress and promote relaxation.
2. Intimacy between couples
Physical touch can do more than just make you feel good. It is also a source of relaxation. SELF has previously stated, numerous studies show that physical touch may lower blood pressure as well as increase 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 each other can benefit both the person who gives the massage and also for the recipient. Therefore, even if not in search of the medical benefits of a 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 grab some oil for massage and rub it on the other (or the other way around).
3. Relief from constipation
If you’re suffering from constipation or any other digestive issue it could be beneficial to massage your stomach. It can assist in relieving discomfort. A study from 2016 that was published in Gastroenterology Nursing found that abdominal massages could help people suffering from constipation following surgery get their bowels moving and feel better.
4. Fibromyalgia pain management
Patients with fibromyalgia are plagued by chronic pain , memory, sleep and mood issues. Massage therapy isn’t the only cure for the disease however, according to the Mayo Clinic says that it can be a complement to treatment (along with medications, counseling as well as the physical therapy). Be aware that in certain situations massage therapy may increase the severity of your pain according to what The Mayo Clinic explains. It’s best to speak with your primary physician regarding the possible benefits of massage therapy for fibromyalgia. Also, be sure to discuss your health issue to your massage practitioner before you begin.
5. Relief from tension headaches
The tension-related headache also known as concentration headache can be like having a tight band of hair over your head. as the Mayo Clinic explains. The reason for this isn’t completely identified, but there’s evidence to suggest that massages can offer relief from this type of headache, as the Mayo Clinic says. Particularly, it can help ease tension in your neck, head and shoulders (which may help relieve migraine symptoms).
6. Sleepiness (related with stress)
As we’ve mentioned earlier that massages have a positive impact on stresslevels, 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 making a ritual before bed and limiting time spent on screens prior to you go to bed too).
7. Myofascial treatment for pain syndrome
Myofascial-related pain syndrome can be described as a persistent pain disorder in which the muscles you are putting pressure on may cause 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 appreciate getting a registered massage therapist in Vancouver to focus on the areas that they’re suffering from pain in order to ease tension in the muscles, as The Mayo Clinic explains.
8. Sore muscles and tension
If your muscles are painful and injured, a massage could 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 is a condition that causes swelling and pain in joints according to The Mayo Clinic says. While your massage therapist massages or massages your muscles, the blood is pumped into your joints, which could offer some temporary relief according to according to the Mayo Clinic explains. Make sure you mention the fact that you suffer from arthritis prior to the massage therapy session, so that your therapist knows how to talk you through ways to collaborate.
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 sure to inform your massage therapist you’re expecting (even when you’re not pregnant).