Massages have always had an interesting role in the lives of those who receive them. Some see a massage as a means of pampering, while others seek it out for its ability to provide short-term relaxation and stress relief. Yet another category of people adhere to the alternative medical use of massage, in the form of therapeutic massage, as a means of treating various medical ailments, including pain. Although therapeutic massage has at times been the subject of some controversy, and has even been ridiculed at times by various mainstream practitioners, the fact remains that each year sees a growing body of documentable evidence demonstrating just how effective this type of treatment can be. for the treatment of medical conditions.

Massages and their uses

To understand therapeutic massage it is important to first define what a massage is. While most people have their own understanding of the definition of massage, the most commonly accepted understanding is also the simplest. A massage involves manual manipulation of the recipient’s body to relieve muscle tension, speed blood flow, and encourage healing of ligaments and other connective tissues. During any massage, including therapeutic massage, the therapist uses their hands, fists, elbows, feet, and even inanimate objects to achieve the goals of the therapy.

Understanding your role

Therapeutic massage is now commonly recognized as one of the most effective methods of treating a variety of medical conditions. Whether the patient is an active athlete, a sedentary office worker, or something in between, massage therapy can help relieve the everyday stress and pain that is a part of many people’s lives. For many people who suffer from high levels of stress, massage therapy can help rid the body of toxins that would otherwise accumulate in the muscles and other tissues of the body and invariably lead to a number of physical ailments.

We’ve all experienced the occasional tight back and neck, and many of us occasionally comment that we need a good massage. Well, the truth is that our offhand comments are probably more true than we realize, especially when you consider the positive benefits therapeutic massage can have on muscle pain. The practitioner providing any therapeutic massage can usually identify the muscle region where the pain is originating and quickly work to loosen any tension to allow proper blood flow and muscle relaxation to occur. Additionally, the very act of massage can act as a pain blocker in many cases, meaning that even those whose pain is coming from more than just tight muscles can experience relief.

The most powerful benefits of therapeutic massage can be seen in the area of ​​pain that is systemic and chronic. With a focus on the muscles surrounding the spine, therapeutic massage serves to interrupt the transmission of pain impulses from the affected part of the body. At the same time, endorphins are released offering additional pain relief as well as a general feeling of relaxation and well-being. The bottom line is that there are few methods of relieving pain and stress that are more effective than therapeutic massage.