Massage is a type of bodywork that encompasses many forms, from deep-tissue kneading to Thai massage, which combines stretching with acupressure. Besides being very pleasurable, massage has physical benefits that have been quantified in research studies, according to faculty members at Medical College of Georgia’s School of Physical Study. Massage can also help with specific conditions, such as spinal cord injuries and chronic back pain.
Boost Well-being
In an article by Steven D. Ehrlich on the University of Maryland Medical Center website, the author states that massage can alleviate depression in people with chronic fatigue syndrome, boost energy and improve self esteem. Massage also lowers blood pressure. Researchers at the Medical College of Georgia found that massage changed levels of the stress hormone cortisol. The degree of change correlated to the intensity of the massage.
Lymphatic Massage
Specially trained massage therapists perform lymphatic massage, which helps lymph nodes to drain and improves immune function, according to a Body Sense magazine article by Karrie Osborn. She writes that several lymphatic massage sessions when the seasons change and you will be more susceptible to illness, or when you think your body might be under physical stress, can help prevent flu, colds and “bugs.” People who have had lymph nodes removed or whose lymph system has slowed to a crawl, resulting in painful swollen nodes, also benefit from lymphatic massage. It stimulates the lymphatic fluid and reduces swelling.
Musle and Joint Pain
A massage softens, relaxes and elongates tight or knotted muscles, allowing them to move more freely without stiffness or discomfort. With muscles relaxed, your joints have increased range of motion. Ehrlich notes that massage can help significantly with lower back pain, arthritis and fibromyalgia, and can be both cheaper and more effective than other treatments, such as acupuncture and conventional medical treatment.
Spinal Cord Patients
A 2001 study published in the International Journal of Neuroscience found that spinal cord injury patients who received massages twice a week for five weeks in conjunction with exercise were significantly improved, compared to patients who did not get the massage therapy. They had improved muscle strength and better fine motor control. As a result, these patients reported better mood and less depression and anxiety than the control group.
Massage for Children
Massage isn’t just for grown-ups. Children, even newborn babies, benefit from massage. Mothers who massage their babies report that the babies are less fussy, sleep better and may even gain weight and muscle tone faster, according to Ehrlich. This relaxes the mothers as well, and they form a better bond with their babies. Studies have also shown that massage can be effective for conditions in children such as diabetes, autism and even attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
