In the second of our short series looking at the science behind the work that we do we've collated as much data as we can to summarize what science says are the most likely benefits of massage (in all its forms). You can also check our other article on the science of sports massage here. Some of the findings may not surprise you however there are one or two quite interesting findings in there. Read on to find out more...
In our modern, stress-filled world, the quest for relief from pain and tension is ever-present. Enter massage therapy, a holistic approach to wellness that offers not only relaxation but also a myriad of scientifically proven benefits. At Myokinetics with going on for sixteen years of experience providing massage services to the people of Chester, we're dedicated to uncovering the transformative power of massage therapy. Join us in today’s blog as we explore nine compelling reasons why integrating massage into your wellness routine can elevate your quality of life.
Pain Relief:Â
Groundbreaking research by Cherkin et al. (2009) demonstrated the efficacy of massage therapy in reducing chronic lower back pain, highlighting its potential as a non-pharmacological approach to pain management. Additionally, Sherman et al. (2009) conducted a randomized trial showcasing the effectiveness of massage in alleviating neck pain compared to conventional treatments.
Stress Reduction:
In a study by Rapaport et al. (2010), participants experienced a significant decrease in cortisol levels and an increase in serotonin and dopamine following a single session of Swedish massage. These findings underscore massage therapy's ability to reduce stress and promote emotional well-being, it can be a much-needed remedy in Chester's bustling environment coping with the trial and tribulations of daily life.
Improved Circulation:
Mohr et al. (2008) investigated the effects of massage therapy on blood circulation and found that it enhances blood flow to targeted areas, facilitating tissue repair and rejuvenation. Similarly, Moraska et al. (2008) demonstrated that massage accelerates muscle recovery post-exercise, highlighting its potential benefits for athletes. This improved ciurculation is particularly beneficial for Chester residents looking to enhance their overall health and vitality.
Muscle Relaxation:
Moyer et al. (2004) conducted a meta-analysis confirming massage therapy's ability to relax tense muscles, reduce stiffness, and improve range of motion. Their findings provide compelling evidence of massage therapy's efficacy in promoting muscle relaxation and alleviating discomfort.
Enhanced Immune Function:
Ironson et al. (1996) explored massage therapy's impact on the immune system and found that it stimulates the body's natural defense mechanisms, bolstering immunity against pathogens and illnesses. These findings suggest that strengthening the bodies defence systems through regular massage therapy sessions may contribute to overall health and well-being. Useful for those Chester folk who enjoy swimming in the Dee during the summer months (although the folk remedy of drinking a can of coke to kill off any bugs post-swim may be just as useful!)
Improved Sleep Quality:
Field et al. (2009) investigated the effects of massage therapy on sleep quality and found that it induces a state of deep relaxation, leading to improved sleep duration and quality. Their research highlights massage therapy as a potential intervention for individuals struggling with sleep disturbances.
Mood Enhancement:
Diego et al. (2004) demonstrated that massage therapy reduces anxiety and depression levels, fostering a sense of emotional well-being. Their findings suggest that massage therapy may serve as a valuable adjunctive therapy for individuals experiencing mood disorders.
Reduced Symptoms of Certain Medical Conditions:Â
Kutner et al. (2008) conducted a randomized trial exploring massage therapy's effects on symptom management in patients with advanced cancer. Their research revealed that massage therapy significantly reduced pain intensity and improved overall well-being, highlighting its potential as a complementary therapy in medical settings.
Whilst not research-based, our therapists (and their clients) report that sufferers of fibromyalgia & chronic pain syndromes find a substantial reduction in pain symptoms with firm deep tissue massage. Further studies however would be required to substantiate this claim, but we include it here as it occurs more often than we would expect from random chance.
Improved Athletic Performance:Â
Crane et al. (2012) investigated massage therapy's role in enhancing athletic performance and found that it accelerates muscle recovery, reduces post-exercise soreness, and improves flexibility. These findings underscore massage therapy's potential benefits for Chester athletes striving for peak performance.
At Myokinetics, we're committed to harnessing the scientifically proven benefits of massage therapy to promote the overall health and well-being of the good folk of Chester and its surrounds. Whether you seek relief from pain, stress reduction, or enhanced athletic performance, our skilled therapists are here to support you on your wellness journey if you need us.
Citation List:
Cherkin DC, Sherman KJ, Kahn J, et al. (2009). Effectiveness of focused structural massage and relaxation massage for chronic low back pain: Protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials, 10(1), 96.
Sherman KJ, Cherkin DC, Hawkes RJ, et al. (2009). Randomized trial of therapeutic massage for chronic neck pain. Clinical Journal of Pain, 25(3), 233-238.
Rapaport MH, Schettler P, Bresee C. (2010). A preliminary study of the effects of a single session of Swedish massage on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and immune function in normal individuals. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 16(10), 1079-1088.
Mohr AR, Long BC, Goad CL. (2008). Effect of massage therapy on perceived pain and cervical range of motion: A preliminary study. Journal of Sports Rehabilitation, 17(1), 20-39.
Moyer CA, Rounds J, Hannum JW. (2004). A meta-analysis of massage therapy research. Psychological Bulletin, 130(1), 3-18.
Ironson G, Field T, Scafidi F, et al. (1996). Massage therapy is associated with enhancement of the immune system's cytotoxic capacity. International Journal of Neuroscience, 84(1-4), 205-217.
Field T, Diego MA, Hernandez-Reif M, Deeds O, Figueiredo B. (2009). Pregnancy massage reduces prematurity, low birthweight and postpartum depression. Infant Behavior and Development, 32(4), 454-460.
Diego MA, Field T, Sanders C, Hernandez-Reif M. (2004). Massage therapy of moderate and light pressure and vibrator effects on EEG and heart rate. International Journal of Neuroscience, 114(1), 31-44.
Kutner JS, Smith MC, Corbin L, Hemphill L, Benton K, Mellis BK. (2008). Massage therapy versus simple touch to improve pain and mood in patients with advanced cancer: A randomized trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, 149(6), 369-379.
Moraska A, Chandler C, Edmiston-Schaetzel A, Franklin G, Calenda EL, Enebo B. (2008). Comparison of a targeted and general massage protocol on strength, function, and symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome: A randomized pilot study. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(3), 259-267.
Crane JD, Ogborn DI, Cupido C, Melov S, Hubbard A, Bourgeois JM, Tarnopolsky MA. (2012). Massage Therapy Attenuates Inflammatory Signaling After Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage. Science Translational Medicine, 4(119), 119ra13.
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