July 14-20, 2013 is EveryBody Deserves a Massage Week, sponsored by the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP). During this annual event, ABMP members nationwide offer their time, money, and effort to help their communities, as well as promoting the benefits of massage.
However, this event isn’t for the massage therapists. It’s to remind you, the client, that massage isn’t just a pampering treat like most people assume. There are many health benefits of massage that you may not be aware of.
No matter what you describe massage as (therapeutic, relaxing, rejuvenating) or the reasons you wish to receive it (stress relief, pain management, relaxation), massage therapy can be a powerful ally to your health care regimen.
The Benefits of Massage
Studies from the National Center of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), within the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, suggest that a single session of massage therapy can reduce state anxiety, blood pressure, and heart rate; while multiple sessions can reduce trait anxiety, depression, and pain.
Other health conditions massage therapy can assist are: carpal tunnel, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, headaches, insomnia, menopause, prenatal, nerve pain, soft tissue strains or injuries, and sports injuries.
Over time, massage therapy has become more common in conversations with doctors and health care providers. In July 2011, the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) reported that more than 39 million American adults had discussed massage therapy with their doctors or health care providers in the previous year.
Almost all massage therapists receive referrals from healthcare professionals. Ninety-six percent of massage therapists received at least one referral every six months from a hospital or medical office. On average, massage therapists received about four referrals per month from a hospital or medical office.
Beyond all of the health benefits of massage, some people simply seek massage therapy for stress relief and relaxation. Reduced stress means enhanced sleep quality, improved concentration, more energy, and reduced fatigue.
Increase the Benefits of Massage with Frequent Visits
Whether you need a healthcare ally or just a break from everyday life, you deserve to incorporate more massage into your life. Just because the massage feels pampering, doesn’t mean it’s any less beneficial. And the more frequent you visit, the more benefits you’ll receive. If you’re not sure how often you should be coming in for a massage, give me a call. We can determine together which type of treatment is best for your wellness goals and how frequent your visits should be based on your needs.
