Massage Therapy Helps Ease a Variety of Chronic Health Issues

Instead of suffering from chronic conditions like frozen shoulder syndrome and migraines, some Hampton Roads residents have found another source of relief: massage. A trip to the massage therapist once or twice a month can help ease headaches and promote blood flow for better healing of aches and pains.

While many people still enjoy massage for pure relaxation, the demand for therapeutic massage is growing fast. Clients of all ages are seeking it out for relief from a long list of ailments including: back pain, headaches, osteoarthritis, sports injuries, fibromyalgia, whiplash, anxiety, depression and chemotherapy side effects. Research evidence of benefits of manual therapy have been building, and more doctors also are recommending massage as a complement or add-on to traditional medicine and physical therapy.

According to a 2012 survey by the American Massage Therapy Association, 75 percent of people who’d had a massage in the past year cited a medical (43 percent) or stress-related (32 percent) reason rather than pampering (11 percent). That survey also found 87 percent of people considered massage beneficial to overall health; 89 percent called it effective for pain relief.

All massage boosts the circulation of oxygen-rich blood, but there are many different types and variations within each. “Swedish massage” typically refers to gentler sessions while “Deep tissue massages” involves deeper strokes to target chronic muscle tension or knots. Sports massages and prenatal massages are also popular options.

At Bon Secours In Motion Physical Therapy and Sports Performance, massages are often a part of treatment plans and may help reduce pain and fatigue. Our team also works with a variety of active, athletic individuals, people with overuse joint injuries, and neck, shoulder and back soreness, as well as those with aches and pains from too much sitting, often at a computer.

Doctors might not recommend massage for certain patients, including people prone to blood clots. Contact us today to learn if you can benefit from a session with a certified massage therapist.