Most everyone has heard about massage, but do you really know what type of health benefits it can offer you? I try to keep myself on a regular schedule for massage, as it provides me relief from stress (both physical and mental), shorter recovery time after exercise, detoxification and an increase in bowel regularity. (Ok, getting deep here!) But here is what the Mayo Clinic has to say about the benefits of regular massage.
Massage can be a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and well-being.
What is massage? Massage is a general term for pressing, rubbing and manipulating your skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Massage may range from light stroking to deep pressure. There are many different types of massage.
Benefits of massage Massage is generally considered part of complementary and integrative medicine. It's increasingly being offered along with standard treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations.
Studies of the benefits of massage demonstrate that it is an effective treatment for reducing stress, pain and muscle tension.
While more research is needed to confirm the benefits of massage, some studies have found massage may also be helpful for:
· Anxiety
· Digestive disorders
· Fibromyalgia
· Headaches
· Insomnia related to stress
· Myofascial pain syndrome
· Soft tissue strains or injuries
· Sports injuries
· Temporomandibular joint pain
Risks of massage Most people can benefit from massage. However, massage may not be appropriate if you have:
· Bleeding disorders or take blood-thinning medication
· Burns or healing wounds
· Deep vein thrombosis
· Fractures
· Severe osteoporosis
· Severe thrombocytopenia
Some forms of massage can leave you feeling a bit sore the next day. But massage shouldn't ordinarily be painful or uncomfortable. If any part of your massage doesn't feel right or is painful, speak up right away. Most serious problems come from too much pressure during massage.
What you can expect during a massage You don't need any special preparation for massage. Before a massage therapy session starts, your massage therapist should ask you about any symptoms, your medical history and what you're hoping to get out of massage. Your massage therapist should explain the kind of massage and techniques he or she will use.
In a typical massage therapy session, you undress or wear loose-fitting clothing. Undress only to the point that you're comfortable. You generally lie on a table and cover yourself with a sheet. Your massage therapist should perform an evaluation through touch to locate painful or tense areas and to determine how much pressure to apply.
Depending on preference, your massage therapist may use oil or lotion to reduce friction on your skin. Tell your massage therapist if you might be allergic to any ingredients.
No matter what kind of massage you choose, you should feel calm and relaxed during and after your massage.
If a massage therapist is pushing too hard, ask for lighter pressure. Occasionally you may have a sensitive spot in a muscle that feels like a knot. It's likely to be uncomfortable while your massage therapist works it out. But if it becomes painful, speak up.
Finding a massage therapist Ask your doctor or someone else you trust for a recommendation. Most states regulate massage therapists through licensing, registration or certification requirements.
Don't be afraid to ask a potential massage therapist such questions as:
· Are you licensed, certified or registered?
· What is your training and experience?
· How many massage therapy sessions do you think I'll need?
· What's the cost, and is it covered by health insurance?
The take-home message about massage Brush aside any thoughts that massage is only a feel-good way to indulge or pamper yourself. To the contrary, massage can be a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and well-being, whether you have a specific health condition or are just looking for another stress reliever.
So, if you are interested in massage, we welcome you to schedule an appointment with our massage therapists here at The Herbal Alternative. They are just wonderful and truly attentive to each individual’s needs. Call 812-271-1850 to book today!
30 Minutes = $35 60 Minutes = $60