You don’t need any reason other than that you enjoy massages when it’s safe to keep getting them at spas. To answer the question of whether or not massages are helpful, the answer depends on the specifics of your situation. So, if you’re thinking about scheduling a massage, here are some of the best justifications to do so.
Stress reduction and relaxation.
The primary benefit of traditional Chinese massage is its stress reduction. While scientific evidence is lacking, anecdotal evidence suggests that massages can assist in relieving tension and increasing relaxation.
Relationship intimacy between couples.
Touch does more than just make you feel great. Multiple studies have shown physical contact to reduce blood pressure and increase feel-good hormones like oxytocin levels. One study found that couples who massaged each other felt closer to one another.
Relief from constipation.
A massage of the abdominal area can help ease the pain and discomfort of digestive issues, including constipation. Researchers found that abdominal massages helped people with post-surgery constipation go to the bathroom and feel better.
Pain management in fibromyalgia.
Patients with fibromyalgia suffer from persistent pain and difficulties sleeping, remembering, and feeling happy. Although it may help alleviate symptoms, massage therapy does not replace more conventional medical care (along with medication, counseling, and physical therapy). It’s important to keep in mind that massage therapy might sometimes make your symptoms worse. If you suffer from fibromyalgia, you should discuss the possible benefits of massage with your primary care physician and let your massage therapist know about your condition before beginning treatment.
Relief from tension headaches.
One common symptom of a tension headache, often called a concentration headache, is the sensation of having a tight band around one’s head. Even though the root cause of these headaches is unclear, research shows that polarity massage therapy can help. As it primarily targets the muscles in your head, neck, and shoulders, it can effectively reduce headache pain.
Insomnia relief (associated with stress)
Reducing stress through massage has been shown to positively affect sleep quality. Having a nighttime routine and reducing screen usage in the hours leading up to bedtime are other good practices for sleep hygiene.
Management of Myofascial Pain Syndrome.
Muscle tension and pain are hallmarks of myofascial pain syndrome, a persistent condition (often in unexpected places). In the absence of definitive treatment, some patients find relief from having a massage therapist or physical therapist concentrate on problem areas to lessen associated muscle tension.
Relief from temporary arthritis and joint discomfort.
Inflammation and pain in the joints are hallmarks of arthritis. Some people find relief from aches and pains from having their muscles kneaded and stroked because it increases blood flow to the joints. You should inform the massage therapist that you have arthritis before starting the therapy so that they can demonstrate the correct way to connect with you.
Improved circulation during pregnancy.
The ACOG, suggests prenatal massage improves blood flow. Always check with your doctor first to learn more, and don’t be shy about letting your massage therapist know if you’re expecting (even if you aren’t showing).
Conclusion
Therapeutic massage is useful for just about anybody. Of course, timing is everything. If you recently sustained an injury like a burn, infection, fracture, or wound, you might need to give yourself time to fully recover. If you have a bleeding disorder, advanced osteoporosis, or take a blood-thinning medication, your doctor may advise against massage. Talk to your physician before booking an appointment if you have a medical condition.
