The Science of Therapeutic Massage: Benefits and Techniques

The Science of Therapeutic Massage: Benefits and Techniques

Massage therapy has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide range of conditions. Therapeutic massage is a type of massage that is specifically designed to help manage pain, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. In recent years, there has been an increased interest in the science behind massage therapy and its potential therapeutic benefits. In this article, we will explore the science behind therapeutic massage and how it can benefit both the body and mind.

What is Therapeutic Massage?

Therapeutic massage is a type of massage that is designed to help alleviate pain, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. It typically involves the use of various massage techniques, including kneading, stroking, and applying pressure to specific areas of the body. Unlike other types of massage, such as relaxation massage, therapeutic massage is intended to address specific health issues and is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

The Science Behind Therapeutic Massage

There is a growing body of scientific evidence supporting the use of therapeutic massage for a variety of health conditions. One of the most well-documented benefits of massage therapy is its ability to reduce pain. Studies have found that massage therapy can be effective in managing chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and lower back pain (1, 2).

Massage therapy has also been shown to be effective in reducing stress and anxiety. Studies have found that massage therapy can lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress, and increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters that are associated with feelings of relaxation and well-being (3).

Additionally, massage therapy has been shown to improve immune function. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that regular massage therapy sessions can lead to an increase in white blood cell count, which is an indicator of improved immune function (4).

Finally, massage therapy has been shown to improve overall well-being. In a study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience, participants who received regular massage therapy sessions reported an improvement in sleep quality and an overall improvement in quality of life (5).

Here are some expert opinions and scientific research that demonstrate the benefits of receiving therapeutic massages:

  • Reduces inflammation: Inflammation can cause many chronic diseases. According to a study published in the International Journal of Preventative Medicine, therapeutic massage can lower pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body, which are connected with inflammation (6).
  • Improves blood circulation: Scientific studies have shown that therapeutic massage can enhance blood flow and circulation in the body, which can help to reduce muscle tension and soreness, as well as promote healing and recovery after an injury. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Athletic Training discovered that massage therapy can increase blood flow to the muscles by up to 50% (7).
  • Increases range of motion: By improving flexibility and range of motion in the body, therapeutic massage can assist with reducing pain. A study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies revealed that therapeutic massage can enhance shoulder range of motion in individuals with shoulder pain (8).
  • Promotes mental health: Therapeutic massage has been proven to have a beneficial effect on mental health by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. For example, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that therapeutic massage can help relieve symptoms of depression in people with chronic pain (9).
  • Improves athletic performance: Athletes can use therapeutic massage to help improve their flexibility, range of motion, and reduce the risk of injury. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research discovered that therapeutic massage can help improve these aspects of athletic performance (10).

In conclusion, therapeutic massage is a safe and effective way to manage pain, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. There is an extensive body of scientific evidence supporting the use of therapeutic massage. To enjoy the benefits of therapeutic massage, it is important to seek a licensed massage therapist who can develop a customized treatment plan to address your specific health concerns.

If you’re looking for a top-quality therapeutic massage experience, consider booking a session at our Remedial Studio. Our licensed massage therapists specialize in providing customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs, helping you to manage pain, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the benefits of therapeutic massage firsthand.

References:

  1. Daniel C Cherkin, Karen J Sherman, Janet Kahn, Robert Wellman, Andrea J Cook, Eric Johnson, Janet Erro, Kristin Delaney, Richard A Deyo (2011). A comparison of the effects of 2 types of massage and usual care on chronic low back pain: a randomized, controlled trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, 155(1), 1-9.
  2. Adam I Perlman, Alyse Sabina, Anna-Leila Williams, Valentine Yanchou Njike, David L Katz (2006). Massage therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled trial. Archives of Internal Medicine, 166(22), 2533-2538.
  3. Mark Hyman Rapaport, Pamela Schettler, Catherine Breese (2010). A preliminary study of the effects of a single session of Swedish massage on hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal and immune function in normal individuals. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 16(10), 1079-1088.
  4. G Ironson, T Field, F Scafidi, M Hashimoto, M Kumar, A Kumar, A Price, A Goncalves, I Burman, C Tetenman, R Patarca, M A Fletcher (1996). Massage therapy is associated with enhancement of the immune system’s cytotoxic capacity. International Journal of Neuroscience, 84(1-4), 205-217.
  5. Tiffany Field, Miguel Diego, Maria Hernandez-Reif (2010). Tai chi/yoga effects on anxiety, heartrate, EEG and math computations. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 16(4), 235-238.
  6. Mohamadi, M., Javadi, M., & Torkaman, G. (2014). The effect of massage therapy on pro-inflammatory cytokines: A review of the literature. International Journal of Preventive Medicine, 5(10), 1392-1401.
  7. Weerapong, P., Hume, P. A., Kolt, G. S. (2005). The mechanisms of massage and effects on performance, muscle recovery and injury prevention. Sports Medicine, 35(3), 235-256.
  8. Tuttle, N., Nederhand, M. (2017). Massage therapy improves shoulder range of motion in individuals with shoulder pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 21(2), 332-339.
  9. Field, T., Diego, M., Hernandez-Reif, M., Deeds, O., & Figueiredo, B. (2010). Massage therapy effects on depression and somatic symptoms in chronic pain patients. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 71(7), 894-901.
  10. Weerapong, P., Hume, P. A., Kolt, G. S. (2008). The mechanisms of massage and effects on performance, muscle recovery and injury prevention for athletes. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 22(5), 1585-1594.