When people think of a massage, images of cruise ships and luxury experiences come to mind. It can be, but massage has some very real and practical benefits besides extravagance.
A massage is a type of manual therapy which serves to relax, revitalize, and restore your muscles. It relieves tension, improves range of motion, gives pain relief, and improves blood flow.
For example, your neck is stiff. The causes could be from looking at your phone, poor spinal alignment, mental stress, or an injury. A massage will ease that tension to allow you to turn your head more freely, reduce pain, allow better blood flow, and be in a more peaceful mental state.
There are published studies that massage is effective for reducing the need for pain medication. Some hospitals use it as part of their pain management program.
There are different types of massage, such as medical, Swedish, and shiatsu. Talk to your therapist for the type that is right for you. Massage therapists are licensed and have a code of conduct regulated by the state.
It is best to work with your doctor to address the cause of the tension or pain. Combining massage with physical therapy or medications are often the most effective method for long term relief. There are some medical conditions that massage is not recommended.
- It doesn’t have to be expensive, but the best relief comes from a licensed massage therapist. They are trained on different techniques depending on your needs.
- To find a therapist, you can try a chain location. Their prices are typically lower than a spa or private therapist.
- Private practitioners tend to be more expensive, but not always. Many will come to your home for a private session.
- For the cheapest option, have a partner learn some basic techniques. There are good instructional videos available on the internet.
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