4 Surprising Benefits of Massage Therapy

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Getting a massage regularly is a great way to relieve pain and stress. But do you know that it also has other surprising benefits? Here are some of them.

Relieves chronic neck pain

Several studies have explored the effectiveness of massage therapy for chronic neck pain. Despite some conflicting results, these studies found that massage provided long-lasting relief. However, more extensive trials need to be done to determine whether it is effective in more severe cases. Moreover, studies should also investigate the effects of more extended follow-up periods and the number of treatments.

In one study, Karen Sherman and her team investigated whether a month of massage could alleviate neck pain. They found that the massage group reported clinically meaningful improvements in the Neck Disability Index (NDI), which measures pain, stiffness, and other symptoms of neck pain. This improvement was clinically significant and persisted through a 26-week follow-up.

In another study, Karen Sherman and her team examined the effect of four weekly massage treatments on neck pain. They found that the massage group was less likely to report motion-related pain than the self-care group. They were also less likely to report activity restrictions and experience pain while doing certain activities.

Improves function in people with knee osteoarthritis

Various types of physical activity and exercise can improve function in people with knee osteoarthritis. However, patients with knee OA should be monitored for the severity and duration of the disease.

Some of the most common types of exercise for knee OA include aerobic training, weight management, and resistance training. The most effective type of exercise is low-impact aerobic training.

In addition, some physical therapy techniques can also decrease pain in people with knee OA. The therapist will gently move the joints to increase flexibility and strength. They may also show patients exercises to improve their range of motion.

Several systematic reviews have examined the effectiveness of exercise therapy for knee OA. These studies found that exercise can increase blood flow to the joint, increase muscle hypertrophy, and reduce pain.

One study of an online yoga program for knee OA found that patients improved their physical function. They reported higher levels of self-efficacy for arthritis, lower pain levels, and better knee stiffness and quality of life.

Reduces anxiety

Massage therapy to reduce anxiety is a great way to relieve stress. The benefits of massage have been substantiated in several studies.

Anxiety is a common condition among the general public. Symptoms can range from mild to debilitating. Anxiety can prevent you from travelling, attending social events, and working.

For centuries, massage has been used to help treat chronic stress. It has increased relaxation, improved flexibility, and reduced muscle tension. It also increases the production of endorphins.

In addition, massage can stimulate the lymphatic system, which removes waste from the body more quickly. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with medical problems or injuries.

Massage can relax the mind and body, improve mood, and release toxins. However, you should consult your doctor before getting a massage.

In addition to its relaxing effect, massage can also increase the production of serotonin, an essential hormone for maintaining overall well-being. It can reduce the amount of cortisol, which is the body’s primary stress-fighting hormone.

Boosts white blood cell count

Boosting your white blood cell count can be essential to protecting your immune system from infections. Lymphocytes are one of three types of white cells in your body. They are involved in growth, repair and protection.

A study at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles found that massage therapy helped increase lymphocyte counts. Participants received massages for thirty or forty-five minutes, and their white blood cell counts were measured.

The results showed that CD4+ cells increased after the massage, and T-lymphocytes decreased. The numbers of IL-5, IL-10 and IL-13 were also reduced. These immune cells are responsible for rapid responses to viruses.

Other studies have found that massage can improve the function of the immune system. In a 12-week controlled study on HIV-positive adolescents, the group receiving massage had better immune function than the control group. They also showed a decrease in stress and anxiety.

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai also looked at the effect of massage on the immune system of HIV-positive patients. They found that once-a-week massage sessions were associated with significant treatment effects for IL-5 and IL-13.

At Marcare Clinic, we care about your health; if you need medical care close to you in Hamilton or a walk-in clinic in Hamilton, please do not hesitate to contact us; we will attend to you.

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