by It is no secret that chronic pain can be a major source of stress. It can be caused by a number of things including overuse, injury or even just sitting at your desk for long periods of time. Many of us are looking for a natural way to reduce our stress levels and improve our quality of life. And, a massage is the perfect answer! A therapeutic massage can relieve a wide range of symptoms from muscle tightness and stiffness to joint pain and aches. And, the best part is that it doesn’t have any side effects unlike many medications.
Therapeutic Massage triggers the body’s relaxation response, which helps the brain shift out of the frenzied adrenaline-based “fight or flight” mode into a calm parasympathetic state. This helps to reduce the negative stress hormone cortisol, balance serotonin and increase dopamine – all of which are beneficial for mental health.
A massage increases blood flow, which also helps to promote healing and ease muscle tightness and stiffness. In addition, a massage can help to decrease inflammation and break down any scar tissue that may be causing discomfort. It can also stimulate the lymphatic system, which removes metabolic wastes from the cells and improves tissue health, reduces pain, and speeds up recovery after exercise or surgery.
Studies have shown that therapeutic massage can increase the activity level of white blood cells – the immune system’s first line of defense against infections and diseases. It has also been shown to help those suffering from fibromyalgia and cancer patients by easing pain, reducing nausea, fatigue and depression.
During a massage, the therapist works with the client to focus on specific areas that need attention. Whether it be a tense shoulder or a painful back, the therapist will work to ease tension and discomfort by using a variety of techniques including stretching, kneading, deep pressure and working on those trouble spots called knots.
A massage can also have an overall positive effect on the body’s immune system, which is particularly important for those undergoing cancer treatments. And, with regular therapeutic massages, the occurrence of flare-ups of a musculoskeletal condition such as arthritis can be reduced. A massage can also be a great complement to other medical treatments for a health condition like rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia. And, for those battling cancer, it can help reduce fatigue and depression, as well as the physical side-effects of chemotherapy and radiation. If you are looking for a massage therapy in Atlanta make sure you check on Midtown Family Wellness.