5 Reasons why you need a Remedial Massage
Remedial massage is a treatment targeting muscle and connective tissue to alleviate pain and dysfunction. This form of massage uses specific techniques and pressure to achieve results. Here at Health Shack Rockingham, our team of expert massage therapists are passionate about helping our customers feel their best. Here’s why we recommend remedial massage for our clients.
Relieves pain
One of the most common reasons people seek out a remedial massage is to relieve pain. This type of massage can be helpful in treating both acute and chronic pain conditions (1). Massage therapy assists by targeting the specific muscles and connective tissues causing pain. The therapist will use techniques such as effleurage, petrissage, and trigger point therapy to release tension and knots in the muscle. This can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.
Improves joint mobility
Another common reason people visit a remedial massage therapist is to improve joint mobility. This is often seen in conditions such as arthritis, with stiffness and reduced range of motion in the joints. Massage therapy can help improve joint mobility by reducing inflammation and blood circulation around the joint (2). This helps to bring nutrients and oxygen to the area, which aids in healing. During the massage, the therapist will use gentle stretching and mobilisation techniques on the affected joint/s.
Reduces stress and anxiety
If you are feeling stressed or anxious, a remedial massage can be an excellent way to help you relax. Massage therapy works by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and digestion functions in the body. This helps to lower heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels (the stress hormone). During a remedial massage, the therapist will use soothing strokes such as effleurage to help you physically and mentally relax. Often, people find they sleep better following a relaxation massage.
Supports a healthy immune system
When stressed, your immune system is compromised, which makes you more susceptible to getting sick. A recent study showed that regular massage therapy could help to boost immunity by increasing white blood cells, which fight off infection (3). White blood cells are produced in the bone marrow and circulate through the body, waiting to attack bacteria or viruses. A study covered by the BBC shows that compared to baseline results, the participants showed a 70% boost in white blood cells after a massage. While this is only one study, if you are looking for ways to support your immune system, consider adding regular massages to your health routine!
Improves circulation
Poor circulation can lead to many health problems, such as fatigue, poor healing, swelling, cellulite formation, and varicose veins. If you are struggling with poor circulation, remedial massage can be beneficial as it helps to increase blood flow around the body. This is achieved through different techniques such as effleurage (stroking), petrissage (kneading), trigger point therapy (finger pressure), and friction (rubbing). These techniques help move blood through stagnant areas so it can be circulated back around the body properly.
Your remedial massage therapists in Rockingham
There are many benefits to having a remedial massage which is why it is a popular treatment option here at Health Shack. If you are suffering from pain, stiffness, poor circulation, stress, or anxiety, consider booking a session with one of our remedial massage therapists in Rockingham today. Get in touch to book an appointment.
1) Adams R, White B, Beckett C. The effects of massage therapy on pain management in the acute care setting. Int J Ther Massage Bodywork. 2010 Mar 17;3(1):4-11. PMID: 21589696; PMCID: PMC3091428.
2) Jada Bell, Massage therapy helps to increase range of motion, decrease pain and assist in healing a client with low back pain and sciatica symptoms. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, Volume 12, Issue 3, 2008, Pages 281-289, ISSN 1360-8592, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2008.01.006.
3) Rapaport MH, Schettler P, Bresee C. A preliminary study of the effects of repeated massage on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and immune function in healthy individuals: a study of mechanisms of action and dosage. J Altern Complement Med. 2012 Aug;18(8):789-97. doi: 10.1089/acm.2011.0071. Epub 2012 Jul 9. PMID: 22775448; PMCID: PMC3419840.