Massage has constantly been the subject of comfort and relaxation. And we cannot deny this, as it has been proven to improve the well-being of an individual: from reducing muscle tension to improving sleep patterns, and as a big step towards a healthier lifestyle. But more than these health benefits, it also plays an important role in the lives of those who are living with chronic pain and injuries. For many, it serves as a valuable complementary therapy.
Massage as the holy grail of complementary medicines!
Being one of the most commonly used complementary and alternative medicines (CAM), massage offers a wide range of benefits to individuals experiencing discomfort and pain in their bodies. From a simple back pain to serious conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, massage can do wonders!
Although the treatment offered by traditional ways is highly effective, some injuries and disorders are better treated with CAM, specifically with massage. The following are some of the conditions for which massage treatment is most effective:
- Sub-acute/Chronic low back pain
- Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
- Soft tissue injuries
- Osteoarthritis
- High blood pressure
- Provide support to people with chronic diseases and life-threatening ones, such as cancer.
- Psychological disorders such as anxiety.
- Fibromyalgia
By directly targeting the affected area, massage therapy not only provides comfort and relief but also promotes relaxation and calmness.
Not quite sure which type of massage is right for your needs? Don’t worry—we’ve rounded up some massage treatments that are often used as complementary therapies to help with different conditions and discomforts.
Let’s relieve that discomfort with these techniques:
1. Deep Tissue Massage: If you are experiencing severe, chronic back pain, this type of massage might be the best one for you. In this method, the therapist applies firm pressure in order to reach deep layers of muscle and tissues. This aims to break up scar tissue and relieve muscle tension. This also helps in reducing the stress level—which can have a positive effect on blood pressure and the overall cardiovascular system
2. Trigger Point Therapy: This technique targets the trigger point—the source of pain. By applying pressure, it ‘deactivates’ the trigger point, releasing the tension in the muscles and making the muscles return to their normal length. Beyond easing localized pain, this also helps in improving circulation, thus affecting heart health positively.
3. Lymphatic Massage: In this therapy, the therapist will use circular massage techniques in order to move the lymph fluid throughout the lymphatic system. This will help decrease the chances of getting lymphedema, a condition resulting in the buildup of lymph fluid, which can cause swelling. This can also be done to drain the lymph fluid built up after breast cancer surgery.
4. Oncology Massage: This massage technique is used by people undergoing cancer treatments. In this therapy, the therapist may use one type of massage technique or combine various methods such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and lymphatic massage. Beyond helping with pain, fatigue, and anxiety, this type of massage can also aid in reducing stress and improving blood circulation.
Having a massage session as a complementary medicine and therapy is like hitting two birds with one stone: it not only eases pain and discomfort but also supports your overall well-being, from reducing stress to promoting better heart health. It also prioritizes your relaxation on top of that!
PUP Intern, Raven Gabriel S. Cruz