Massage therapy has been around for centuries. People once considered it a self-indulgent practice for people who frequent spas or health clubs. Many assumed the rubbing and pressing was just a way to relax or feel good. 
 

The truth is far more than that. Massage promotes good physical and mental health. Today, more people embrace massage after seeing its health benefits. Find out the benefits of massage therapy for chronic conditions. 

Improving Mental Health 

Regular massage can help you manage stress, reducing symptoms that can impact your health. Chronic stress can affect health in various ways. Massage helps relieve pressure, creating physical and mental relaxation. 
 

Studies show that people who get regular massages are less depressed than those who do not. Some experts believe that massage can affect brain and autonomic nervous system activity. It can also affect the immune and hormonal systems. 

Alleviating Chronic Pain

Research shows that massage can help ease chronic pain. Massage therapists have the expertise to work on the body, relaxing the muscles and eliminating tension. By producing a deep sense of relaxation, massage helps relieve stiffness and pain. 

Stress and pain are often related, and relieving stress produces relief and enhances comfort. Manual soft-tissue therapy can reduce inflammation and relax the nervous system, reducing pain and improving function. 

Can Help Boost Sleep

People with chronic conditions often suffer from insomnia or sleeplessness. Massage can help boost sleep by reducing stress and tension. The massage techniques release hormones that can trigger sleep. 
 

Medical massage is a common practice in hospitals and medical settings to aid sleep. Insomnia is a common side effect of menopause. Research shows that massage therapy can help women going through menopause get adequate sleep. It can also help cancer patients. 

Improving Joint Flexibility

Individuals with chronic conditions such as arthritis and joint pain can benefit from massage therapy. The conditions can make it hard to move, work, or enjoy a good quality of life. Physical therapists use massage techniques to:
 

• Enhance strength

• Reduce stiffness

• Boost circulation

• Improve flexibility

Individuals can enjoy improved flexibility, allowing them to participate in the activities they love. 

Help in Quick Recovery

Individuals recovering from injuries or surgery and those with chronic diseases can benefit from massage therapy. Many medical and rehabilitation centers include massage as part of their post-recovery programs. 
 

Apart from helping reduce complications, massage can help reduce the severity of chronic conditions. Studies show that cancer patients experience reduced pain after massage therapy. The manual techniques can change how the patient’s body perceives pain, helping facilitate healing. 
 

Massage can treat a wide range of conditions, including:
 

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Headaches

• Digestive disorders

• Nerve pain

• Fibromyalgia

It can also help with postoperative care, sports injuries, temporomandibular (TMJ) disorders, soft tissue injuries, and scar tissue. The therapy can help reduce anxiety, improve mood and relaxation, and increase wellness. Most people report feeling more energetic after getting a massage.
 

For more on the benefits of massage therapy for chronic conditions, visit Costa Lifestyle Medicine at our San Clemente, California office. Call (949) 218-4750 to schedule an appointment today.