If you’ve ever had a massage, then you know just how good it can make you feel. A great massage can make you feel both relaxed and invigorated. But did you know that there are many health benefits to massages as well? From improving your mental health to boosting your athletic performance, massages make life better. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of our favorite reasons to get a massage.
Benefits of a Great Massage
Improved Circulation— A study published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation reports that massage therapy restores “peripheral vascular function.” For us non-physicians that means a good massage can get your blood flowing. In this particular study, the researchers were examining improvements to blood flow after exercise. But the applications extend beyond just post-exercise massage. Participating researcher Dr. Nina Cherie Franklin stated that she believes the findings demonstrate “massage therapy improves overall circulation in a very beneficial way.
Loosen Stiff Joints—Quoting Tiffany Field of the Touch Research Institute, the Arthritis Foundation reports that regular massage is an effective way to reduce the joint pain caused by arthritis. The foundation cites research indicating that massage reduces the production of a specific pain neurotransmitter substance (called P) and the IL-4 and IL-10 inflammatory cytokines.
Untie those Knots—Sometimes referred to as myofascial trigger points, muscles knots can be painful and limit your mobility. They can also be in hard to reach places making them tough to eliminate. The good news is that a massage can help. A talented massage technician can target just the right trigger points and help work those tight muscles loose.
Relax and De-stress—We know that a massage can be very relaxing. But more than just giving you a break, researchers believe that regular massages can help lower your body’s stress levels. A massage can help you lower your heart rate and blood pressure. A study of individuals who received chair massages demonstrated a slight lowering of cortisol (the stress hormone), too.
Still More Benefits—Massage Magazine has compiled a list of articles that detail some of the other benefits of massage. Researchers have found that massages can reduce anxiety and help patients manage pain. Additionally, massage of myofascial trigger points in the neck and head can help relieve the pain of tension headaches.
Have We Convinced You Yet
If you aren’t convinced of the benefits of massage yet, just check out the American Massage Therapy Association’s list of 25 wonderful reasons to get a massage! Best Health magazine is a believer in the benefits of massage as well. Katherine Watts lists 6 Surprising Health Benefits of Massage Therapy on the Best Health.ca website.
If you need to see it to believe it, just stop by Barefoot Oasis Foot Massage and Spa here at Keefer Place. Our team of massage technicians will be happy to answer your questions. Then, you can book an appointment right in the shop or online. We’d love to show you how much better you’ll feel after a great massage.
