Since the field is wide, it’s crucial to be clear about what type of massage you’re after. “It’s not a cookie-cutter. There aren’t any of us with the same expertise,” Angela Barker, Massage therapist certified by the board for Therapeutic massage and Bodywork, says to SELF. “So make sure you do your research Make a few phone calls check out their websites, and have questions.”
Here are 10 benefits of a massage.
If you’re a fan of massages that are spa-like this is a great reasons to continue getting massages as long as it’s safe to take them in the future. But if you’re unsure whether massages can provide other benefits for people suffering from health issues–or if the massages you enjoy so much are doing anything–it is evident that they are helpful, depending on the situation.
But let’s not get carried away. Although there’s research to prove the benefits of a massage, it’s not enough to schedule a massage in place of seeking medical assistance. And, while trying the head with a massage to manage occasional headaches, or massage your abdomen to alleviate the pain in your stomach is doable, it’s best to seek out a professional when you’re seeking relief from discomfort that’s caused by a medical condition (even when you’re just having a chat with a therapist for massage techniques). It is also recommended to speak to your primary care doctor prior to scheduling a massage for an ailment that’s specific to you, or a specialist whom you consult regarding the condition of concern. The research seems to suggest that massage therapy can help with these issues:
1. Relaxation and stress-relief
The primary benefit of 출장홈타이 therapy is the relief from stress, Deery explains. It is necessary to discover exactly how massage therapy affects stress-hormones like cortisol, but reports suggest that massage therapy can reduce stress and help promote relaxation.
2. Intimacy between couples
Physical touch does more than make you feel great. As SELF previously reported, a number of studies suggest that touch can reduce blood pressure and increase hormones like oxytocin that make us feel happy. A small study in 2020 which was reported in the Journal of Health Psychology found that massages that couples give each other can benefit both the giver and the receiver. Therefore, even if not looking for a medical massage, if there’s one of your partners and you’re hoping to connect and bond, it’s a good idea to break out some oil for massages and use it on their bodies (or vice versa).
3. Constipation relief
If you’re suffering from constipation or any other digestive issue, a stomach massage might be able to ease some of your discomfort. A study in 2016 published in Gastroenterology Nursing found that abdominal massages helped patients suffering from constipation following surgery move their bowels and feel more comfortable.
4. Fibromyalgia pain management
Patients with fibromyalgia are plagued by chronic pain as well as sleep, memory, and mood symptoms. Although massage therapy isn’t a cure for the condition but the Mayo Clinic says that it can be a complement to treatment (along with medications, counseling as well as physical therapy). Keep in mind however that in some cases massage therapy could create more pain as it’s what the Mayo Clinic explains. It is recommended to talk with your primary care doctor about the potential benefits of massage for fibromyalgia, and make sure you discuss your condition and your professional prior to.
5. Relief from tension headaches
A tension headache, also known as a tension headache, can make you seem like there’s a tense band on your forehead, the Mayo Clinic explains. The reason for this isn’t completely known, however there is evidence that massages can provide relief from this type of headache, as the Mayo Clinic says. Particularly, it can help relieve tension in your head, neck, and shoulders (which can help reduce migraine symptoms).
6. The sleep disorder (related in part to stress)
As we mentioned above, massages positively impact stress, and diminished stress levels can aid in getting sleep (though there are also other practices to help you sleep like getting your bedtime routine in order and limiting time spent on screens prior to going to bed as well).
7. Myofascial pain syndrome management
Myofascial pain is permanent pain disorder in which tension on muscles can trigger discomfort (sometimes in areas that do not seem to be connected), the Mayo Clinic explains. While there’s no cure it, some patients do appreciate the services of a physical therapist and massage therapist treat the areas of their body that are experiencing pain to relieve tension in the muscles, as according to the Mayo Clinic explains.
8. Sore muscles and tension
If your muscles are painful and injured, a massage could increase blood flow to the affected area (and aid in recovery) According to a study of meta-analysis from 2015 published in the journal Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine.
9. Temporary arthritis and joint pain relief
Arthritis involves swelling and pain in your joints as The Mayo Clinic says. When your massage therapist rubs and massages muscles, blood flow to joints, which could bring some relief for a short period as it says the Mayo Clinic explains. Make sure to mention you suffer from arthritis prior to your massage therapy session so that the therapist can guide you through the ways you could collaborate.
10. Circulation during pregnancy
Massages during pregnancy may improve circulation, according the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Make sure to check with your doctor prior to booking an appointment. Make certain to inform your massage therapist you’re pregnant (even when you’re not showing).