Pain can happen at any time. Whether you’re working hard or simply relaxing, pain can come at you from many angles without warning. While medications can help relieve pain, they only serve as a “temporary” solution.
Why not get to the source of your pain?
Believe it or not, massage can help you reduce pain, and the results are phenomenal. According to the National Holistic Institute, 43% of Americans who receive massages saw the following results:
- Pain management
- Migraine control
- Injury rehabilitation
- Overall wellness
Moreover, about 88% of consumers see massage as the best solution for pain relief.
Thus, massage has become an increasingly popular choice for people looking to treat many different types of pain. Usually used in conjunction with other medical treatments, massage has been found to be an effective addition to pain management routines, including for individuals suffering from chronic pain. Here we discuss five of the best types of massage which can offer effective pain relief.
The Benefits Of Massage
Besides seeing a rise in popularity in recent years, massage has been proven time and time again to have substantial benefits, when it comes to pain relief. Besides its ability to induce endorphins (which help to bring about deep relaxation and calmness in patience), massage can also be beneficial in the following ways:
- Improved blood circulation
- Reduced tension in the muscles
- Stress hormone reduction, especially when associated with anxiety and depression
- Increase in relaxation• A stimulated lymphatic system
- Soft tissue injury rehabilitation
- Better joint mobility
- More flexibility in the body
- Increased mental alertness
Now, these are just some of the many benefits that can come from massage. However, the consensus seems to be that massage can bring about pain relief without having to solely resort to medication.
Types Of Massage
So, what ARE the best types of massage that can help relieve pain? Well, the good news is, there are various types of massage that can give you pain relief. Here, we’ll discuss five of the best massages for pain relief:
1. Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is one of the most popular and best-known types of massage. It is a gentle, relaxing full-body massage. It is a good choice for improving blood flow and supporting the removal of excess lactic acid which may have built up in the muscles, thereby helping to release muscles that may have become cramped over time.
For these reasons, Swedish massage is a good choice for those who are new to massage or for anyone who suffers from chronic pain. Due to its gentle pressure, it’s also suitable for individuals who may be sensitive to touch or for anyone who has lots of tension.
2. Trigger Point Massage
Trigger point massage, also known as neuromuscular massage, is designed to target specific regions of the body. In contrast to a Swedish massage, trigger point massage does not necessarily include work on the whole body, although a therapist may begin this way. Instead, the aim is to identify specific areas of tightness within the muscles which may be causing pain in other parts of the body, known as the trigger points.
A massage therapist will apply deep pressure to the trigger point which is designed to help to release it. As the massage directly targets areas that are sore or tender, it can lead to some soreness and discomfort, to begin with. For this reason, it’s important to communicate with your therapist so that you can work together to identify and use the appropriate pressure.
3. Deep Tissue Massage
A good choice for anyone suffering from chronic muscle problems, including scar tissue, injury, or imbalance, deep tissue massage is designed to relieve pressure from the deepest muscle layers. Using a combination of deep finger pressure and slow strokes, deep tissue massage works more deeply than Swedish massage to relax tightly knotted muscles. Normally, this type of massage is for treating musculoskeletal issues, including sports injuries and strains.
Again, it’s essential that you communicate clearly with your therapist to find an appropriate level of pressure for you.
4. Shiatsu Massage
Shiatsu massage is a Japanese massage style, which is particularly suitable for those looking to relieve pain, tension, and stress. Originating from Japan, the word shiatsu means “finger pressure,” meaning that this massage targets certain areas of the body to stimulate pressure points. During a shiatsu massage, a therapist will use their fingers to apply pulsing or rhythmic pressure.
A shiatsu massage is a full-body massage and can help to reduce muscle tension, whilst also helping to promote physical and emotional relaxation. It’s a great choice of massage for anyone who’s looking for a massage that can help to relieve symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress.
5. Sports Massage
Sports massage can be performed either as a whole-body massage or as a focused massage in which the therapist concentrates on specific areas of the body that require the most attention. It can combine deep pressure with soothing strokes. This is a particularly effective massage for people who suffer from injuries that are the result of repetitive muscle use, such as from playing sports, or who are prone to injuries.
Sports massages can be especially effective at reducing muscle tension, anxiety, and pain. In addition, they can also help to prevent sports injuries from occurring as they help to improve flexibility, as well as performance.
DISCLAIMER: Special Considerations
It’s important to note that massaging may not be for any who has certain types of pain. That’s why it’s important that you talk to your doctor first before taking up any kind of massage.
In fact, according to Better Health, massage may not be recommended – or you’ll need a specialist for it – if you fall under these conditions:
- • When you’re suffering from skin rashes
- • When you have cuts or infections on your body
- • If you suspect that you have broken or fractured bones
- • If you’re pregnant, OR
- • If you’re suffering from a life-threatening illness
Conclusion
As you can see, pain doesn’t have to be tolerated for long periods of time. It’s important to be fit and well, and not have to live with chronic pain from anywhere in your body.
Massage can be an effective way to help you relieve pain, feel more relaxed and improve your emotional and mental wellbeing as well. These 5 types of massages, along with the benefits listed above, serve as a testament that massage is a Godsend for those who suffer from pain.
NOTE: Remember to always openly communicate with your massage therapist and doctor, if you have any questions or concerns about taking up massaging sessions. If you ever experience any discomfort, then feel free to stop your massage sessions at any time. Experiment with different types of massage until you find one that works effectively for you.
Also, remember to let your doctor know if you have any medical conditions before you start any form of massage therapy. Some massages can be beneficial, while others might aggravate symptoms.
Article contributed by:
Lauren Groff is an accomplished health writer and editor BoomEssays, where she offers advice on leading a healthy lifestyle and developing a positive mindset.