Learning About Massage Therapy

What is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy is a technique where muscles of the body, and other soft body tissue is pressed, rubber or manipulated. Different forms of massage include: Swedish, which is a gentle form of massage, deep tissue massage, which target the deepest part of the muscle, and clinical massage therapy (with many different approaches) that helps treat specific problems.

How Does Massage Work?

Massage is a way of breaking the pain cycle in the body. Pain makes the nervous system stimulate muscles to contract. The contractions then lead to more pain, and a viscous cycle begins. Massage coaxes muscles into a relaxed state. It also helps to lengthen muscles. It brings pain relieving oxygen and blood flow to muscles and helps to remove waste materials. The mere process of therapeutic touch is good for the body.

What Can It Do For You?

Massage therapy is effective relief for just about any type of pain in the body's soft tissue. Back, neck, and shoulder muscle pain can all be helped with massage. Headaches may also be relieved with beneficial massage. Repetitive strain injuries, and sports injuries can also be helped with massage. When looking for a massage therapist, look for those who advertise deep tissue massage, neuromuscular therapy, trigger point therapy and myotherapy. These are all different types of therapeutic massage that are proven to effectively relieve pain.

Is Massage Safe?

Because massage manipulates different parts of the body, there is a chance that it can actually worsen pain. It is a good idea to check with your physician prior to getting a massage if you experience chronic pain. If you are pregnant, have circulation problems, or other health conditions that require ongoing care, consult your physician. In addition, let your massage therapist know of any existing conditions you may have, they then can work on you in a more conservative manner.