What are the health benefits of massage therapy?
The list of benefits from massage therapy is long, and it can enhance nearly every system in your body. Massage therapy can help relieve pain, decrease stress, assist in rehabilitation from sports injuries or chronic conditions, and provide an overall improved state of general wellness. It’s an excellent complement to chiropractic adjustments, as well, since it eases tight muscles.
Some additional benefits of a therapeutic massage include:
- Improving cardiovascular health
- Improving balance
- Relieving chronic neck and low back pain
- Reducing headache pain and migraine frequency
- Increasing range of motion
- Reducing arthritis pain
- Managing digestive disorders
- Easing fibromyalgia symptoms
Massages also help to lower your blood pressure and heart rate so you can enter a more relaxed state. Regular massage therapy sessions can help you find relief from depression and anxiety, as well.
What are the different types of massage therapy?
Massage therapy encompasses a variety of techniques and types of massage, including:
- Swedish for full-body muscle relaxation and recovery from injury
- Deep tissue to target muscle knots and repetitive strains
- Shiatsu for arthritis, insomnia, digestive issues, and sciatica
- Sports to prevent and treat injuries and improve flexibility
- Hot stone to loosen tight muscles and other areas of tension
- Pregnancy (prenatal) to relieve low back pain and promote relaxation
- Reflexology on your feet to promote relaxation and healing in your body
- Aromatherapy combined with Swedish massage using essential oils
During any type of massage, your massage therapist works closely with you to address specific issues and to deliver a therapeutic experience, using just the right amount of pressure that feels good to you. A massage should not cause any pain; it should be a relaxing experience.
How do I make the most of a massage therapy session?
When you visit Integrative Health Associates for a massage therapy session, you can expect to leave feeling relaxed and less stressed, overall.
Follow these guidelines to make the most out of your massage therapy session:
- Avoid eating a large meal before your appointment
- Plan to “disconnect” from the outside world
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early so you’re not rushed
- Communicate any pain or discomfort to your massage therapist
- Drink plenty of water after your massage to rehydrate your body and flush away toxins
Your massage therapist provides other suggestions to help maximize the multitude of benefits after your appointment.
To learn more about which type of massage therapy is right for you and to schedule an appointment, call the office or use the online booking tool.
