Massage offers both physical and psychological benefits, as it improve stiffness, relieves muscle pain, and helps you unwind mentally. Massage has been used as part of a healthy lifestyle for years and it is recommended for people with depression, joint problems, and sport-related injuries. Although a massage is thought to be a safe gateway for stress, pain, relaxation, it cannot solve all your problems especially if you do not know the reason why you are going for the therapy.
Many people unwisely prioritize massage over medical care and therefore fail to take into consideration the medical significance of serious symptoms. In this article, we will be looking at what a massage can and cannot do for you.
What a Massage Can Do For You
- It Eases Muscle Pain
Massage therapy can help if you have sore muscles because the techniques involved improve blood circulation around the joints and other areas of your body. A professional therapist can help achieve the perfect massage regimen to improve chronic stiffness and lower back pain, as they accurately target the source of your pain. Loosening muscles and tendons throughout the body also increases blood circulation, which eliminates fatigue and helps in pain management.
- It Soothes Anxiety and Depression
A relaxing day at the spa is one of the best ways you can reduce your level of anxiety and depression. Many clients feel relaxed and at ease for several days or weeks after a massage because of its long-lasting benefits. Regular massage therapy sessions performed after a prolonged period not only help to reduce stress, but also encourage restful sleep.
- It Eliminates Fatigue
The various techniques used in massage help to eliminate fatigue by stimulating the quick recovery of strained muscles and improving blood circulation around your body. Doctors often recommend massage therapy for patients suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. The techniques used target the upper back, face, and neck. You can also opt for a full body massage, which promotes muscle and nerve relaxation.
- It Boosts Your Immunity
Another reason why you should have a massage is that it stimulates your lymph nodes, which rejuvenates your body’s natural defense system. It provides significant benefits that go beyond the immediate relaxation and feeling after the session. It increases the cytotoxic capacity of your body’s immune system, which improves its ability to protect the body against bacteria and infection.
What a Massage Can’t Do For You
- Cure Skin Problems
It is always important to disclose any skin conditions that you are aware of to your therapist before the session. There are situations where the pressure involved in a massage can worsen your skin condition or probably spread it to other parts of your body. In some cases, qualified therapists can send you back to your physician to get clearance for a massage session. Advanced skin problems may require the help of a medical professional who can recommend the necessary treatment for your condition.
- Decrease High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is caused when excessive pressure is exerted against your blood vessel walls. The technique used in massage targets the blood vessels since it increases the level of blood circulation in your body. People with heart conditions or high blood pressure need to get permission from their healthcare practitioner before a massage.
This is very important for clients whose high blood pressure is not controlled. Although there are many controversies on the effects of massage on people with high blood pressure, it is always important to explain your concerns with your massage therapist as they are well trained to make informed decisions about your situation.
- Reduce Fever
When you have a fever, your body tries to isolate and expel the virus or antibodies of some kind. Since massage helps to boost your overall blood circulation, it works against the natural defenses of your body thus worsening the fever. It is important to seek medical attention and approval before having a massage to avoid health complications that may result after the session.
While massage may seem beneficial for many reasons, there are times when you need to refrain from it, as it could adversely affect your health. Contraindications for having a massage may be longer than you expect and most of them revolve around chronic conditions and infectious diseases that may affect the therapist as well. It is always important to take necessary precautions before having a massage especially for people with any health concerns that require medical intervention.