When it comes to pain relief, pain management, and overall relaxation, there are so many modalities that can help. They range from chiropractic adjustments which focus on spinal readjustments and increasing blood flow and nerve conductivity to relieve painful joints and muscles; to osteopathy. These, although effective, do not offer the fine touch benefits which massage offers. This week, we will be discussing the role of massage in pain management and which massages to choose from.
Massage as a pain management strategy has proven effective over the years. Therapeutic massage may relieve pain by way of several mechanisms, including relaxing painful muscles, tendons, and joints; relieving stress and anxiety; and possibly helping to “close the pain gate” by stimulating competing nerve fibers and impeding pain messages to and from the brain. The pressure varies across different massage modalities but it does not have to be painful to be therapeutic. Here are the 7 classical massage techniques with their levels of pain:
Swedish Massage: The 3 keywords to describe Swedish massage are: Gentle, Relaxing, and Painless. Swedish massage relieves muscle tension and provides full-body muscle relaxation.
Deep Tissue Massage: This can be intense, moderately painful, and therapeutic. This type of massage can be helpful in treating repetitive stress injuries, chronic pain conditions, and injuries that cause limited mobility.
Hot Stone Massage: it is warm, soothing, and healing. The heat from the hot stones on the body’s muscles has a relaxing, healing effect and increases blood flow to the area, as well as loosens muscles.
Sports Massage: This modality aims to bring relief to athletes and sports participants. Sports massage involves faster strokes than Swedish massage and may include other massage techniques like compression, pressure point therapy, friction, and joint mobilization.
Reflexology: this focuses on applying pressure on reflex points mostly on the feet, hands, and earlobes, whose energy is believed to be connected to other parts of the body. The goal here is to balance your nervous system and stimulate the release of endorphins to relieve discomfort.
Shiatsu Massage: This is a Japanese massage modality that involves a massage therapist using rhythmic, localized pressure with their fingers, hands, or elbows on certain acupressure points on the body. Shiatsu massage can be effective for conditions like arthritis, insomnia, and sinus problems.
Thai Massage: If you are squirmish to touch, this is the best massage for you. You don’t have to take off your clothes and no oil will be applied to your body. Thai massage uses rhythmic compression of muscles, mobilization of the joints, and acupressure to reduce stress and improve flexibility. It can help treat back pain, balance problems, and even symptoms of migraines.
In my practice, I mix different techniques to deal with every client because I have come to realize that different body parts require different techniques which could be outside the specific massage type you have chosen. My goal is to bring relief to your body in every session and to help you live a balanced and fulfilled life.
I do hope you feel informed enough to book your next session.
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When it comes to finding the best massages in Las Vegas, the options are endless. From high-end resorts to hidden gems, the city’s spas provide an array of techniques tailored to your needs. Whether you want to de-stress or refresh, you'll find the perfect treatment to rejuvenate your body and mind