Things About Massage That You Should Know

We have a perspective about massage that it is only good for relaxation. But actually, it gives you more than just that. There are many researches conducted proving its many benefits whether in health, spiritual or emotional aspects. The following are just some of the benefits massage can give.

1. Alleviate low back pain and improve range of motion.

Massage is perfect in treating low back pain caused by muscle tension and strain as it targets the muscles directly. It also improves range of motion and flexibility by working on muscles, connective tissues, tendons, ligaments, and joints. Regular massage can improve your flexibility and range of motion, keeping your joints more fluid and making them less prone to injury.

2. Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow- the body’s natural defense system.

Having a massage boosts the immune system. According to a recent study, 29 participants received 45 minutes of Swedish massage while the control group received 45 minutes of light touching. Massage therapists were trained in how to deliver both Swedish and light touch using specific and identical protocols. The group who received Swedish massage showed significant improvement in their immune system compared to the participants who had light touching treatment.

3. Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts.

Athletes may achieve positive effects if they opt for massage pre or post-event. Massage acts to improve performance, reduce pain, prevent injury, encourage focus and shorten recovery time. It basically involves two types of responses: a mechanical response as a result of the pressure and movement and a reflex response where the nerves respond to the stimulation of a massage.

4. Improve the condition of the body’s largest organ- the skin

One surprising benefit of massage is when it stimulates the blood flow. That is why, regular gentle rubbing and kneading will keep your face looking healthy and radiant. Massage also promotes tissue regeneration, reduces dead skin cells and stretch marks.

5. Reduce post surgery adhesion and swelling.

After surgery, there is always swelling, stiffness and body flexibility. Massage such as the deep tissue technique can be a great way to release adhesions that occur after surgery.

6. Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulations.

Massage has been proven to improve the body’s circulation process and because of this, oxygen and nutrients are properly pumped into the different tissues and vital organs of the body, allowing them to function correctly. The pressure of the massage technique helps move the blood to the congested areas, aiding more blood to flow in.

7. Release endorphin- amino acids that work as the body’s natural painkiller.

Endorphin is our body’s natural pain killer. As many studies have proven, massage can stimulate the release of endorphin, assisting in the relief of mild to chronic pain.

8. Ease medication dependence.

Massage does not only gives you pure relaxation, it also has hundreds of medical benefits to our body. To start off, regular massage treatment can minimize medication dependence. It can also cure so many illnesses in mental health like anxiety, depression and stress disorder. Moreover, massage can also cure cancer by enhancing the coping mechanism in patients undergoing cancer treatment.

9. Reduce Spasms and cramping.

Muscle spasm or cramps occur by surprise. This happens when your muscles contract without a warning. This usually occur in our neck, back, hands, arms, thighs, abdomen, rib cage muscles and feet and calves. There are many massages suitable when you experience cramps. Sports massage is good for muscle soreness before and after any type of exercise.

10. Lessen Depression and anxiety.

Depression and anxiety have a great effect in social functioning, leading to increased risk of unemployment, illness, and even death. They can play a role in other health conditions, too and render the individual more vulnerable to diseases. Research has shown that massage therapy can have a beneficial effect on both anxiety and depression. Early research says that a 30-minute daily massage therapy given to depressed adolescents over a 5 day period can help improve their mood and behavior.

11. Relieve migraine pain.

Migraine is a sudden and recurrent headache attack that can cause severe and intense throbbing pain that can last for hours to days. It is a result of the unexpected enlargement of the blood vessels of the skull. Actual study showed significant result after a Thai Massage compared to the randomized-controlled group who received treatment via ultrasound. Moreover, another research cited by the same said association showed improvement in autonomic nervous system regulation in chronic tension headache patients after receiving a single 30-minute massage on cervical trigger points.

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