There are many massage benefits that come with massage therapy. Its is one of the simplest healthcare practices available, and essentially stimulates the body’s natural healing abilities. Massage therapy is most commonly used for relaxation and stress-related issues, muscle and joint pain, high blood pressure, depression and digestive problems. Many athletes also use massage therapy to keep their bodies in peak conditions.
All massage techniques involve touch, which is an important sensation linked to comfort, love and emotion. Children and young animals require touch to thrive and grow, and touch has been linked to stress-relief and relaxation in adults as well.
When a soothing touch is applied to the skin, messages are sent to the brain to relax the body and release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Rubbing the muscles and tissues of the body also help to work out any stiffness or tension that is stored in the body to improve flexibility and movement.
What is Massage Good For?
Massage is believed to support healing, boost energy, reduce recovery time after an injury, ease pain, and enhance relaxation, mood, and well being. It is useful for many musculoskeletal problems, such as low back pain, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and sprains and strains. Massage may also relieve depression in people with chronic fatigue syndrome, ease chronic constipation (when the technique is performed in the abdominal area), decrease swelling, alleviate sleep disorders, and improve self image. In the workplace, massage has been shown to melt away stress and enhance mental alertness. One study found that deep tissue massage reduced blood pressure levels (an average reduction of 10.4 mm Hg in systolic pressure and a diastolic pressure reduction of 5.3 mm Hg). Other studies show that massage may have immediate beneficial effects on pain and mood among patients with advanced cancer.
Massage is also useful for stimulating the lymphatic system to boost the immune system and get rid of toxins in the body. Many people report a sense of improved perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance massage provides can often be just as important and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.
Getting a massage can do you a world of good; with our fast paced schedules, and the highly stressful world that we live in today, massage therapy is one of the best ways to relax and promote overall wellness, both physically and mentally! Getting a massage frequently by means of regularly scheduled appointments can play a huge part in your health. Consider massage therapy a necessary piece of your wellness plan!
Massage Benefits
- Increases Circulation and Flexibility
- Enhances Sleep Quality
- Greater Energy
- Improves Concentration
- Reduces Fatigue and Stress
- Decreases Anxiety
- Enhances Immunity
- Improves Body Motion
- Relieves Tension Related Headaches
- Reduces Heart Rate
- Helps With Injury Rehabilitation
Alternative Massage Benefits
- Autism: Autistic children, who usually don’t like being touched, show less autistic behavior and are more social and attentive after receiving massage therapy from their parents.
- Atopic dermatitis/eczema: Children with this scaly, itchy skin problem seem to experience less redness, scaling, and other symptoms if receiving massage between flares. Massage should not be used when this skin condition is actively inflamed.
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Massage may improve mood in children with ADHD and help them feel less fidgety and hyperactive.
- Bulimia: Studies show that adolescents with this eating disorder feel less depressed and anxious after receiving massage therapy.
- Cystic fibrosis: Massage may reduce anxiety and improve respiration in children with this lung condition.
- Diabetes: Massage may help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce anxiety and depression in children with diabetes.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) have been shown to experience less pain, morning stiffness, and anxiety as a result of massage therapy.
References
Anderson PG, Cutshall SM. Massage therapy: a comfort intervention for cardiac surgery patients. Clin Nurse Spec. 2007;21(3):161-5; quiz 166-7.
Barlow A, Clarke R, Johnson N, Seabourne B, Thomas D, Gal J. Effect of massage of the hamstring muscles on selected electromyographic characteristics of biceps femoris during sub-maximal isometric contraction. Int J Sports Med. 2007;28(3):253-6.
Beider S, Mahrer N, Gold J. Pediatric Massage Therapy: An Overview for Clinicians. Pediatric Clinics of North America. 2007;54(6).