Suffering pain is debilitating and exhausting. Conventional treatments may be effective, but medication in itself can have side effects. There are many forms of massage which can naturally alleviate pain and stress, from conventional Swedish body massage, through sports massage, aromatherapy and the traditional Asian forms which include acupressure, to more extreme forms which involve body walking and deep tissue work.
Effects of Massage
A full body massage does a great deal to relieve pain, particularly if it is caused by injury to joints or muscles, or by tension or stress. The movement of the masseur's hands warms the skin and increases circulation, helping to eliminate toxins from the system and speeding up recovery time. The manipulation of the muscles disperses the build-up of lactic acid which occurs after strenuous exercise, often a major cause of pain and stiffness. Deep-tissue massage of particular muscle groups where there is pain will loosen knots in the muscles; massaging around the area of a sprain or injury can reduce swelling, and therefore ease pain.
Relaxation
One of the major causes of pain in the body, particularly around the back, neck and shoulders, is stress and tension. When you are anxious or under pressure, the shoulders tend to rise up and stiffen and joints are pulled out of alignment. Massage of the back and shoulders is deeply relaxing, particularly if the massage is combined with essential oils, as in aromatherapy. Says aromatherapist Ali Headeach, from Margate, UK: "Certain essential oils such as rosemary and marjoram warm the muscles and help to loosen tension, whilst a gentle massage in a clockwise direction over the stomach with a blend of rose oil and clary sage helps ease menstrual cramps. Tension in the muscles increases pain, so helping the body to relax and let go of the pain is a very beneficial."
The Benefit of Touch
The touch of the hands on the body is also important in the relief of pain. According to MassageDen.com: "Massage fulfills the body's need for touch. Regular massage improves emotional well-being by allowing the person to feel cared for and nurtured." The fact that you are taking time out to concentrate on your physical well-being, and the body's natural physical and emotional response to massage, means that the effect is lasting and beneficial. Even if you are suffering from severe illness and pain, you can greatly benefit from the gentlest massage in this way.
