Massage is an effective, non-invasive pain reliever. Studies have demonstrated its capacity to decrease discomfort, promote mobility and relieve stress.
Studies have also demonstrated that massage can reduce pain for cancer patients and alleviate depression and anxiety. Furthermore, studies suggest it increases relaxation levels and promotes better sleep quality.
Increased Circulation
Poor blood flow to muscles and other parts of the body is often responsible for pain. This could be caused by conditions such as ischemia (low blood flow), fibromyalgia, or vascular disease.
Massage therapy can assist with this issue by increasing blood flow to these areas. This increased circulation allows for the replenishment of oxygen and nutrients to your muscles as well as the removal of lactic acid from muscle tissue.
Additionally, exercise increases the flow of lymph fluid, which transports metabolic waste away from muscles and internal organs. This can lower your blood pressure and enhance overall body performance.
Massage has been found to improve general blood circulation and relieve muscle soreness after exercise. A 2014 study discovered that those who received massages after exercising experienced better vascular function.
Relaxation
One of the most effective ways to manage pain is relaxation. A massage can lower cortisol levels and raise serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that help stabilize your mood.
If you are struggling with a chronic illness, physical injury, or stress at work, finding ways to relax can help reduce the severity of your symptoms and promote healing. Some people may even benefit from counseling or anti-anxiety medications.
There are various relaxation techniques, such as meditation, breathing techniques, guided imagery, and biofeedback. Each works differently and may be best suited for you depending on your pain type and level of physical and mental sensitivity.
Decreased Stress
Massage is a type of therapy that involves massaging and applying pressure to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It can aid with pain management, relaxation, and injury recovery.
Stress is an inevitable part of life and can either be beneficial or detrimental, depending on how it's managed. Excess stress makes dealing with everyday challenges more challenging, while chronic stress may aggravate existing pain.
Stress causes your body to release cortisol, which can cause muscles to tighten up and increase the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body that makes the pain more intense and difficult to manage.
It is essential to recognize the connection between stress and chronic pain, so you can take steps to reduce your stress levels. If your stress is making your discomfort worse, consider consulting a pain specialist or pain management specialist for assistance with managing your discomfort.
Increased Mobility
One of the greatest advantages of regular exercise is improved mobility or your capacity for movement. A healthy level of mobility helps protect you against injuries and discomfort, so it's essential for staying injury-free.
For instance, if you take a tumble while skiing down a slope, flexibility will determine how quickly and safely you bounce back up. Without it, your day (or season) on the mountain could end with a serious injury.
A serious injury or chronic condition can significantly restrict your movement, especially when it affects joints. Not only that but injuries also cause pain, inflammation, and increased sensitivity to sensations like pain.
People living with chronic pain may become fearful or avoid certain activities altogether. This can lead to physical deconditioning, which in turn could cause further discomfort and disability later in life.