Benefits of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy has many benefits to the individual. In general it is accurate to say that massage therapy contributes to an enhanced quality of life.  A massage produces a relaxation response in most individuals who seek it out.  It reduces muscle tension and soreness and decreases a person’s perceived level of stress. This is no small achievement as many physical and psychological illnesses are engendered or exacerbated by the presence of stress.

Formal research indicates that massage therapy can be a positive adjunct to traditional medical interventions.  For example, cancer patients who receive regular massage therapy report a reduction in pain, nausea, fatigue, and anxiety. Also, stroke patients who receive massage experience decreased levels of anxiety and lower blood pressure.   Other research indicates that massage therapy enhances the functioning of the immune system.

Massage therapy in the workplace is becoming increasingly popular. A number of corporations now offer their employees massage therapy. Research has found that massage therapy reduces employee stress and may be associated with increased levels of productivity.

In addition to the positive effects noted above, the American Massage Therapy Association reports that massage therapy has been found to reduce symptoms in individuals suffering from the following:

• Arthritis

• Asthma

• Insomnia

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Chronic pain

• Reduced range of motion

• Sports injuries

• Headaches

Top