Massage therapy is usually associated with relaxation. Yes, massage therapy can be relaxing and help you de-stress, but it is so much more than that. Physiotherapists use massage therapy to help alleviate any physical ailments, injuries and manage pain. It is important in the recovery process of any injuries, physical disorders and surgery people go through.
In this article, we will explore the advantages of massage therapy and how it can help deal with various injuries.
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy is a treatment which includes the manipulation of a person’s muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues to help in the recovery process and promote overall well being.
Types of Massage Therapies
There are different types of massage therapies focusing on various issues. If you are not sure about which therapy is the right one for you, a physiotherapy will recommend the right treatment after examining your issues. Here are some massage therapies that physiotherapists use as part of treatment and rehabilitation.
Sports massage therapy
Sports massage therapy is great for athletes who do rigorous workouts or train for a sport frequently. It helps their muscles to be more flexible which prevents injuries. Sports massage therapy is also used in the rehabilitation process if the athlete has sustained any injury or is recovering from a surgery.
Deep tissue massage
Deep tissue massage focuses on relieving any knots and strains in the deeper layer of muscles and tissues. It also helps to release pressure on the muscles caused by any injury. People who suffer from any muscle injuries or accidents can benefit from deep tissue massage. This massage can also be useful in treating any abnormalities in the spine and muscles.
Lymphatic drainage massage
Lymphatic drainage massage can help relieve any swelling caused by medical treatments or disorders which block the lymphatic system. This involves gently massaging specific areas of the body to help move lymph to an area with working lymph vessels. It focuses on the lymphatic vessels which carry lymphatic fluid.
Prenatal massage
This massage focuses on women who are pregnant. It is a gentle massage and is done in the side-lying and back lying positions. Prenatal massage provides pain relief and promotes muscle relaxation during pregnancy.
Advantages of Massage Therapy
The aim of massage therapy is to manage pain and improve any physical conditions of the body. It helps in the following ways:
· Improve tissue flexibility
· Brings back movement
· Promotes circulation
· Reduces stress
· Prevents injuries
· Rehabilitation
Physiotherapists use massage therapy as part of the treatment for various injuries and physical conditions. Here are some conditions that can benefit from massage therapy.
Muscle sprain
Muscle sprain can occur in any part of the body and cause pain and discomfort. Other symptoms include restricted movement and weakness. Massage therapy can reduce pain, relieve pressure from strained muscles, improve flexibility and movement.
Joint stiffness
Joint stiffness can be caused due to injuries or prolonged immobility. It restricts movement and causes pain. Massage therapy helps release strain in the soft tissues surrounding the joints to improve movement.
Arthritis
Arthritis conditions can lead to pain and stiffness. Massage therapy can help manage pain and promote flexibility.
Injury
Massage therapy is used in the recovery process of the patient who has sustained any injury due to accidents. It can help alleviate pain, improve movement, and strengthen the muscles.
Back and neck pain
This is a common type of pain and one of the main reasons for it is sitting for long hours in an awkward position while working at a desk. Massage therapy can be useful to treat pain in the lower back and neck that is caused due to strain or pressure on these areas.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy many women go through neck and back pain that can cause discomfort. Massage therapy can deal with this pain and help the body adjust to the changes occurring during pregnancy.
Lymphedema
Lymphedema is the condition that occurs when the lymphatic fluid is accumulated. It can cause pain and swelling. As discussed above lymphatic drainage massage can help reduce swelling and promote circulation.
Tension and migraine headaches
There are many reasons for headaches. These headaches cause excruciating pain and can also lead to stiffness in the neck. Massage therapy can help manage pain and improve these headaches.
As discussed so far massage therapy has many benefits that can help you deal with any painful injuries and other conditions. If you have any of the symptoms or conditions discussed above it is important to seek help. A physiotherapist can assist you in examining your issues and providing a treatment plan for your recovery. Massage therapy can improve your overall well-being.
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