The Health Benefits of Massage

Bodywork and Massage therapy is an extremely effective therapy that has been utilized by cultures around the world. It is a practice that dates back thousands of years into the mists of time and history. There is no denying the benefits of bodywork and massage. Whether you have a medical condition and/or injury or just want to let go, relax and rejuvenate body work and massage  are a powerful tool in the pursuit of your heath and wellness.  Getting massage frequently can do you a world of good.

There are many types of massage and bodywork available to choose from. All of these therapies involve the manipulation of muscle and other types of soft tissues in the body. Massage therapy is sometimes prescribed by your health care provider as a  part of conventional medical treatment. At other times it may be used a part of a complimentary and or alternative medical approach to an illness or condition. In other words, massage therapy can be used on its own or in combination with traditional medical treatments.  Regardless of which type is suitable for your health concerns and preferences there are common benefits.

The human body responds with specific physiological and chemical changes in reaction to massage. These reactions cascade throughout the body with profound effects thereby making beneficial changes to your health. There have been many studies over the years that have demonstrated the benefits of massage for the treatment of chronic and acute pain, inflammation, lymphedema, nausea, muscle spasms, anxiety, insomnia and even depression. Current research continues to show the enormous benefits of bodywork and massage in almost all areas of illnesses. This ranges from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders and injuries to alleviating the tensions of today's hectic and stressful modern lifestyles.  Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork and massage and it is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat post surgery or pain patients as part of their recovery process.  The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a division of the National Institutes of Health has stated that massage is proven to be effective in the treatment of most health concerns. The most prominent health benefits of common health conditions that massage can effectively help with are listed below:
 

• Arthritis - Patients who receive bodywork and massage for arthritic problems report fewer aches and pains as well as less stiffness in the joints.
   

• Premenstrual syndrome - Patients who suffer from PMS  and receive massage report a decrease in  mood swings, depression,  bloating, water retention, and cramping.
   

• Preterm infants - Premature babies show amazing results with touch and massage. Many hospitals require that preemies receive human touch every 2-3 hours and must be held touched massaged and loved to improve their health status. Massage and touch helps neurologic function, improves weight gain, emotional well being as well enhancing all areas of growth and development in infants.
   

• Anxiety - Anxiety and other mental distresses are a part of most of every individuals life. Regular massage therapy sessions can help alleviate the signs and symptoms of anxiety and help the patient to better cope with this condition. Massage releases endorphins into the body that will give the recipient a feeling of well being that brings relief to the person suffering from anxiety.
   

• Juvenal Diabetes Studies have shown that massage can help controll the level of sugar in blood. This is especially true in the case of children. For this reason some health care practitioners are recommending massage as complimentary therapy as well as preventive practice for children suffering from diabetes.
   

• Infant Growth - Massage and bodywork for infants is always recommended by doctors around the world. Massage aids the neurological development, emotional well being, physiological development and the weight gain process of infants, especially in premature babies. It also helps make the muscle tissues stronger and more resilient as they grow.
   

• Cancer: It has been proved that massage therapy is a effective treatment to help to rid the body of toxins that are the result of various conventional drug treatments for cancer. Massage can also reduce the pain and anxiety associated with cancer. Thus, massage therapy is considered as an excellent solution for cancer sufferers.
   

• Insomnia and Sleep Disorders - Massage therapy has an almost magical quality for the insomniac or person suffering from a sleep disorder. It brings the body into a state of soothing, bone deep relaxation that leads to a sound and peaceful sleep. A massage session after a long hectic day is usually just the thing to relax a patient into a state that is sufficient to ensure a good night's sleep.
   

• Immunity  - A strong immune system is competent enough to tackle various types of infections and illnesses. Regular massage has been shown to help increase the immune systems "cytotoxic capacity". This means it helps to increase the activity level of the body’s natural “killer cells” and decrease the number of t-cells, which will improve the body’s overall immune functioning.
   

• Asthma -  Studies have shown that massage can loosen the chest muscles and help to relax the lungs. Regular massage eases sore muscles and reduces stress that can restrict normal breathing. This helps to increase oxygen intake. Asthmatic Children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow.
   
• Burn injury - Patients who receive massage report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety.
   

• High blood - High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones when receiving regular bodywork and massage.
   

• Headaches & Eye stain - Every muscle and nerve in the body is interconnected in some way. When you have a headache, sore back, tight neck or are constantly straining your eyes this can cause a ripple effect that travels throughout the body. Regular massage manipulates and increases blood flow to the head, back, neck, and all muscles of the body so it can return to a natural state of health and wellness.
   

• Pain - Massage is highly recommended by physicians and surgeons for patients suffering from pain, especially after surgery.
   

• Urinary And Digestive Systems - When massage is used on various body parts it helps to maintain the proper working of the digestive system as well as urinary system.
   

• Blood Circulation - The application of massage causes blood to flush in and out of muscles and joints. This  increases the delivery of vital oxygen and nutrients to the tissue and organs. This process can in most cases aid in recovery time from injuries and provide the entire body with a greater sense of wellness.
   

• Skin - Regular massage will help to increase capillary functions, exfoliate dead skin cells and tone the skin. This in turn encourages cell regeneration and assists the body in excreting waste products. The result is healthier, better-looking skin.
   

• Stress Reduction - Whether it’s tight deadlines at work, family problems, relationship problems or just frustration with life in general, we all face stressful situations every single day. Regular massage will put the mind and body at ease, relieving stress and prompting the body to release endorphins and ridding the body of toxins. Both short and long-term stress can trigger changes in the body and increases the likelihood of getting sick. Thereby raising the risk of serious conditions like heart disease, and can make problems we already have worse. Regular massage will relax the body and mind, relieve stress and improve your overall mood.
  
   

  In a nutshell regular massage is helpful to ensure the physical and mental wellness of everyone. Taking part in this form of self-care can play a huge part in how healthy you are and how youthful you’ll remain with each passing year. Furthermore, many of the clients at East West Center for Natural Medicine often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional and mental balance that bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the physical benefits. Treat yourself to a relaxing session of massage therapy or reflexology to the sound of soothing music and the scent of aromatherapy with one of our nationally certified Massage Therapists. Appointments are available to accommodate your schedule. Our massage therapists will be happy to discuss your personal health goals and recommend the type of massage that will benefit you most.  Please remember that just because massage feels like you are pampering yourself doesn’t mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan, and work with your  health care practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs.

  For further information and help to meet your personal health care goals please contact East West Center for Natural Medicine 574-210-4982.

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