There are many kinds of massage, including Swedish style, deep tissue, sports massage and trigger point therapy. Massage has become very popular, and it's becoming increasingly recognized for having many health benefits, according to the Mayo Clinic. Although they point out that more research in this area is needed, massage therapy looks promising as as adjunct to traditional health care. Anyone with health concerns or who takes medications should consult with a doctor before scheduling a massage appointment.
Premature Infants
Preemies that receive light massage are shown to spend approximately six days less in the hospital, on average, and put on weight 50 percent faster than those that don't, according to the University of Miami Medical School. This was reported in "The Miraculous World of Your Unborn Baby" by Nikki Bradford.
Blood Pressure Control & Mental Health
Having a massage temporarily lowers high blood pressure and is good for blood pressure control in general. For those suffering from anxiety, depression or severe stress, massage therapy is very helpful. Massage promotes the release of endorphins in the body, which are natural painkillers and feel-good chemicals.
HIV
According to a study reported by pubmed.gov, there is evidence that massage increases the quality of life and lowers stress levels in patients living with HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, and AIDS, also known as Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. Massage might also increase immune function and natural killer cell counts.
Injuries
Holisticonline.com reports that massage is beneficial when recovering from an injury. The reduced blood circulation of tight muscles can cause oxygen deprivation to the affected area. Massage increases circulation and brings oxygen and blood flow back to the muscles, resulting in less pain. Endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, are released during massage, changing the body's perception of pain from an injury. It is best to avoid massage while recovering from certain injuries, however. For example, massage should never be administered over a bone fracture or open wound or sore.
Migraine Relief
Migraine sufferers may benefit from massage therapy, as massage can reduce the frequency with which migraines occur, according to Mayoclinic.com. Also, because two possible triggers for migraines in some sufferers are stress and lack of sleep, massage can help prevent them from occurring in the first place. Regular massage often improves sleep quality and stress levels.
Autism
After massage, studies have shown that autistic children were noticeably more calm and behaved less erratically, reports Holisticonline.com.
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