What are the benefits of massage?

This is an automatically translated article.

Massage is one of the good options to help you take care of your physical and mental health. The benefits of massage include pain relief, stress relief, relaxation, relief of symptoms of many different diseases,...

1. What is a massage?

Massage is a general term that refers to pressing and massaging the skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Massage can include movements from light strokes to deep pressing. There are many different types of massage, typically:
Swedish Massage: This is a gentle form of massage, using long strokes and massaging movements, deep circular movements, gentle tapping,... It helps you feel more relaxed and energetic; Deep Massage: This massage technique uses slower and stronger massage movements to target deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. It is commonly used to reduce muscle damage caused by injury; Sports massage: Similar to Swedish massage but it helps prevent or treat injuries for people who are active in sports; Trigger Point Massage: This is a massage method that focuses on areas of muscle tension after injury or overactivity. SEE ALSO: What is the effect of back massage? Have pain relief, fatigue?

2. What are the benefits of massage?

Massage is often considered part of complementary medicine. It is gradually being considered as a supportive treatment for many different diseases. The benefits of massage include:
Stress relief and relaxation; Relieve pain and muscle tension; Reduce heart rate and blood pressure; Improve circulation, increase energy and alertness; Improve immune function. Some studies have also shown that massage is also useful in supporting the treatment of problems such as: anxiety, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, headaches, insomnia due to stress, lower back pain, pain neuropathy, myofascial pain syndrome, soft tissue injuries or deformities, sports injuries, temporomandibular joint pain, upper back and neck pain.
In addition to the benefits for specific diseases, some people also choose massage because it makes them feel more comfortable and relaxed.
Despite its many benefits, massage is not meant to be a substitute for conventional medical treatments. You need to consult with your doctor before deciding on a massage, and make sure to follow the standard treatment plan.

3. Risks of massage

Massage may not be suitable for people with the following problems:
Bleeding disorders or taking blood thinners; Burns or in the process of wound healing; Deep vein thrombosis ; Fracture; Infection ; Severe osteoporosis; Have severe thrombocytopenia (very low platelet count). If you are pregnant, have cancer, or have unexplained pain, you need to discuss it with your doctor before deciding to have a massage.
Accordingly, you need to be careful, some forms of massage can make you a little sore the next day. But a regular massage should not cause pain or discomfort. Therefore, if you experience pain or discomfort during the massage, you need to notify the therapist immediately.

4. How is the massage process performed?

The massage process is done as follows:
Before starting a massage therapy session, the massage therapist will ask you about your medical history, symptoms you are experiencing and your wishes after the massage. The masseuses will also explain the type of massage and techniques they will use; You can take off your clothes or wear loose-fitting clothes. Then, you lie on the massage table and cover yourself with a towel. You can also get a massage while sitting in a chair and fully clothed; The massage therapist will slowly touch, assess your pain and tension areas to determine the appropriate massage pressure level; Depending on your preferences, the masseuse can use a massage oil or lotion to reduce friction on the skin. If you are allergic to any of the ingredients, you should tell your massage therapist. A massage session usually lasts 10 - 90 minutes depending on the type of massage and your duration. Regardless of the type of massage you choose, you also need to keep your mind calm and relaxed during and after the massage. During the massage, you should breathe normally.
If the massage therapist uses too much force, you can ask them to use less force. Sometimes, you may have a tender spot on your muscle that feels like it's tight. It can cause discomfort during massage, relieve muscle tension. But if this massage causes pain, you need to tell the massage therapist.
Massage has the benefit of helping to improve physical and mental health. It is useful both for patients who are suffering from a certain health problem or for those who just want to find an effective way to reduce stress.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.

Reference source: mayoclinic.org