If you like getting massages in spa-like settings, that’s reason enough to keep doing it when it’s safe. Suppose you’re wondering if massages help people with medical problems or if the massages you give yourself help. It depends on the situation. So, if you’re thinking about getting a massage, here are some of the main benefits.
Stress reduction and relaxation.
Massage’s most important effect is to reduce stress. More research is needed to figure out how much massage therapy lowers stress hormones like cortisol, but anecdotal evidence shows that a polarity massage can help reduce tension and promote relaxation.
Relationship intimacy between couples.
Physical contact does more than just feel great. Several studies have shown that physical touch can lower blood pressure and increase chemicals that make us happy, like oxytocin. A study published in the 2020 Journal of Health Psychology found that couples who massage each other benefit.
Relief from constipation.
If you have constipation or other digestive problems, a stomach massage might help relieve some of your pain. A study found that abdominal massages helped people with post-surgery constipation progress their bowels and feel better.
Pain management in fibromyalgia.
Patients with fibromyalgia have constant pain and problems sleeping, remembering, and feeling happy. Massage therapy isn’t a cure for the illness, but it can help with treatment (along with medication, counseling, and physical therapy). But remember that massage therapy can make your pain worse in some situations. Speak to your primary care doctor about the possible benefits of Marin indoor massage for fibromyalgia, and let your massage therapist know about your condition.
Relief from tension headaches.
A tension headache, also called a concentration headache, can feel like a tight band wrapping around your head even though no one knows why there is evidence that massage can relieve this kind of headache. It specifically relaxes the muscles in your head, neck, and shoulders, which may help reduce headache symptoms.
Insomnia relief (associated with stress)
As was already said, massages help reduce stress, and less stress can make it easier to fall asleep. Having a nighttime routine and limiting screen time before bed are also good sleep hygiene practices to think about.
Management of Myofascial Pain Syndrome.
Myofascial pain syndrome is a long-lasting condition where pressure on muscles causes pain (often in unexpected places). Even though there is no cure, some people feel better when a massage therapist or physical therapist focuses on the painful areas to relieve muscle tension.
Relief from temporary arthritis and joint discomfort.
Arthritis causes joint pain and swelling. When your massage therapist kneads and strokes your muscles, blood flows to your joints, which may give you temporary relief. Before you “visit site” and start your massage treatment, tell the therapist that you have arthritis so they can show you how to move.
Improved circulation during pregnancy.
The ACOG, aka American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, says that a massage during pregnancy can improve circulation. Make sure to speak to your doctor before booking an appointment, and let your massage therapist know if you’re pregnant, even if you don’t look like you are.
Conclusion
The majority of people can benefit from therapeutic massage. But it’s crucial to pick the right time. For example, if you just got a burn, infection, broken bone, or wound, you might need to wait until you’ve healed enough. If you have a disease that causes you to bleed, have severe osteoporosis, or take a drug that thins your blood, massage may not be a good idea. Talk to your doctor before scheduling a session if you have a medical problem.
