Massage therapy is more than just a way to relax, according to MayoClinic.com. It also has a variety of health benefits. Licensed massage therapists must go through rigorous training in rubbing and pressing skin, muscles, ligaments and tendons to bring pain relief and work the areas of concern in the body.
Pain Relief
One of the most common reasons to have a massage is for pain relief. People who suffer from back pain may find that a massage helps remove or lessen the pain and improve their range of motion. Other types of pain relieved by massage therapy are muscle spasms, cramping, tired muscles, injuries from repetitive motion and migraines.
Maternity
According to Massagetherapy.com, women who are in labor may benefit from massage therapy. It helps the expectant mother to relax and manage the pain from contractions. Massage may also shorten the time the mother has to stay in the hospital after giving birth.
Sports
Massage therapy is beneficial for athletes at all levels as they train for their sports. It helps with flexibility of joints and relaxes tight muscles. After a workout, a massage may prevent or decrease muscle spasms and cramps.
Medicine
The Florida State Massage Therapy Association claims that massage helps to stimulate the immune system. It may assist in decreasing your dependence on medications, according to Massagetherapy.com. MayoClinic.com states that massage is also beneficial for controlling blood pressure and may help in certain types of cancer treatment. Massage can assist in stimulating the lymph system, lower the risk of depression, increase circulation throughout the body and reduce swelling after surgery.
Infant Health
According to MayoClinic.com, massage therapy is beneficial for infant growth. The International Association of Infant Massage claims that massage can improve digestion, assist in nervous system development, relieve pain from colic and gas, increase the baby's alertness and improve the immune system. Premature babies show an increase in the rate of weight gain when gentle massage is administered, according to Massagetherapy.com. Mothers and fathers who massage their babies have the added benefits of relieving stress for both the parent and the baby, assistance in the bonding process and increasing the parent's confidence and sensitivity with regard to the baby's needs.
Stress
A massage helps to promote relaxation, reduce stress, bring about peace of mind and well-being, and induce a sense of calm, according to Holisticonline.com. The relief from mental stress will aid in critical thinking and the reduction of anxiety.
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