Stress can make it easy to believe that there is nothing you can do other than take your over-the counter painkillers and get on with your life. James Bodner is a licensed massage therapist and says you don’t need to be miserable.
Bodner says massage is a wonderful tool for relaxation and pain relief. Learn about the most common types of massage, and how they work.
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy is performed only by a licensed massage therapist. This involves using different pressures, movements, techniques, and combinations to manipulate the muscles and other soft tissues. Massage therapy helps you relax, reduce stress, ease symptoms, heal injury, and support your overall well-being.
Massage Therapy: Different Types
Massages come in many sizes and shapes. Here are some options for massage therapy.
Swedish massage
Feeling stressed? Swedish massages are the perfect choice for serious relaxation. Swedish massage is usually a full body massage that uses a gentle touch. It is an excellent choice for someone new to massages. It can help calm your nervous systems. Bodner also says that Swedish massage is a great way for promoting a relaxed emotional state, which can directly impact your muscles.
Deep tissue massage
Even if you do not sit, drive or use your laptop often, it is possible for muscles to get tight. Bodner explains that deep tissue massage penetrates your muscles and tendon to release tightness. It’s great for people who have injuries, muscle tightness, or chronic muscle pain.
Sports massage
Although sports massages look similar to deep tissue massages, they are focused on the muscles that are most affected by repetitive activities such as playing sports. Bodner believes that athletes and dancers use the body differently to the average person. “A sports massage therapist can be there to relieve muscle tightness and fix injuries.
Trigger point massage
A trigger point is an area in your neck that causes a knot or tightness in the tissue. Bodner explained that a trigger is a tiny muscle spasm, or tight spot in the tissues. Trigger-point massages use focused, direct pressure to target these areas. This increases blood flow, which helps to release the affected areas. This type massage is great for people suffering from chronic pain.
Myofascial release
The fascia connective tissue is the web under the skin. Bodner states that fascia “supports the muscles and allows you to move freely.” A myofascial release is a treatment where the massage therapist will gently stretch the muscles, fascia, and tension. She describes it as a combination of therapeutic massage techniques and deep stretching. It can be used to loosen tightness in your neck and shoulders as well as your upper and/or lower back.
Lymphatic massage
Lymphatic fluid plays a number of important roles in the body, including maintaining fluid levels as well as removing waste products. Lymphatic massage near me helps lymphatic fluid flow more freely. Bodner explains that lymphatic massage is good for people suffering from chronic inflammation.
Prenatal massage
Prenatal massages help mothers-to-be relax. They also can address the aches, pains, and stresses of having a baby. Bodner explains that prenatal massages help relieve the stress on the hips and reduce swelling in feet and legs. “The baby will also benefit from mom feeling relaxed and well.
Massage is good for your health
Massage therapy is not only beneficial for anyone, but it can also help with conditions like heart disease, stomach issues, and fibromyalgia. Talk to your therapist before you start your first session. These are some benefits of massage therapy.
This reduces anxiety and stress
Study shows that massage can bring calm and reduce anxiety. There are two types of nervous systems in the body. One is the sympathetic nervous that controls your fight or flight response to stress situations. The other one is called the parasympathetic nervous. They focus on everyday routines and daily operations that lead you to relaxation and sleep. The parasympathetic nervous system is stimulated by massage, which may decrease anxiety.
Improves sleep
Massages can help lower stress hormone cortisol and increase levels serotonin (and dopamine), neurotransmitters that are known to stabilize mood. Massage therapy has been proven to be beneficial for people suffering from insomnia, such as those with congestive or menopause-related insomnia.
It reduces muscle tension and pain
There have been many studies that looked at how massage could help with pain such as pain in the back, neck, or knees. These results showed that the relief provided by massage can be temporary, not long-term. Some studies also found that receiving a 60-minute massage more often per week was better than receiving shorter or shorter massages.
Improves immune function
Can a massage boost your immune system? Study shows that regular massages improve your body’s ability to produce white blood cells which fight viruses.
This treatment relieves constipation
A study has shown that abdominal massages can be helpful for constipation following surgery.
Lessens fibromyalgia symptoms
Studies have shown that massage for five weeks may help improve the symptoms of fibromyalgia (a chronic illness that causes pain in the muscles and joints and fatigue) and sleep, memory, and mood.
Cancer pain can be relieved
People undergoing cancer treatments are subject to severe emotional and physical suffering. Massage is a popular treatment that can help with pain relief, relaxation, and overall quality of life. There have been numerous studies. Some show no effect while others prove it to be beneficial.
Who should attempt massage therapy?
A massage is a great option for many. A massage therapist should be consulted if you have a medical condition. Prenatal massages are great for pregnant women.
Bodner explains that massage therapists have many benefits.
What type of massage do you prefer? Booking an appointment doesn’t mean you have to pick the perfect massage. Many massage therapists use multiple techniques to address individual needs.
Bodner explains that there are many types of massage. “A massage therapist may use several techniques to help clients relax, relieve tight muscles, or address other issues.”