Whether you’re trying to “unkink” a muscle after a tough workout or just need a little help to relax, a massage is a perfect way to do it. However, there are other health benefits of a massage that you might not know about and a few that could help you overcome serious conditions that create chronic pain. Even Mayo Clinic, considered the best hospital in the nation, applauds the use of massage as a complementary form of medicine, particularly for painful conditions.
Relax and help relieve anxiety and other conditions with a massage.
If you’ve ever suffered from TMJ—temporomandibular joint pain, to the point you’re ready for surgery, consider a deep massage to help you before you take that option. Some studies show that massage can be a non-invasive way to relieve the pain of TMJ. It’s also a help for soft tissue strains and injuries, myofascial pain syndrome, sports injuries and headaches.
Digestive disorders can be helped with massage.
Just the relaxation that comes with a massage is good for many digestive disorders. However, massage can also benefit those who have a sluggish colon, which causes constipation. If the digestive process slows, it can cause issues that also range from diarrhea to nausea. Massage can help stimulate the digestive process and aid in the release of enzymes that aid digestion and removal of waste products. Massage is also great in helping to relieve gas and bloating and improving the stomach muscles to prevent future problems.
Look to massage therapy for aid in relieving pain from fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia causes intense muscle pain, tightness, twitching and burning. There are tender points in the body and totally draining fatigue in some cases. People with fibromyalgia may have insomnia, fibro fog, feel nervous or depressed. They may also have dry eyes, dry mouth, abdominal pain and numbness in various areas of the body. While medications and regular exercise are often used to help control this condition, massage therapy, acupuncture and chiropractic therapy can also be a huge benefit.
- If you’ve ever rubbed your neck, temples or head in an attempt to relieve a headache, you probably already understand how massage can help it.
- Lack of sleep can lead to several serious conditions, including heart problems. It can also cause weight gain. Massage can help when lack of sleep comes from stress.
- Getting a massage on a regular basis can also reduce both the upper and lower numbers of your blood pressure.
- Massage not only helps circulation and improves posture, it also helps give your immune system a boost. You’ll be less prone to infections when you get a massage on a regular basis.