How often do you come home from work saying, “I need a massage”? Chances are, it is quite often — and the reason is probably due to stress.
But did you know that the touch of a massage professional can do more than relieve the stresses of your day?
Timeless and universal, massage therapy offers numerous health and therapeutic benefits that are proven to help relieve pain from conditions such as arthritis, migraines, back pain and even fibromyalgia.
“Indeed, given today’s stressful environment, more Americans are turning to therapeutic massage treatment for good health maintenance and relief from the aches, pains and stress of everyday life,” says CG Funk, vice president of industry relations and product development at Massage Envy. “Many people use massage as part of their wellness plan with much success.”
Massage therapy helps you relax, re-align and rejuvenate. There are many positive aspects to receiving massage therapy on an ongoing basis, and with the busy lives we lead, we all can benefit from a little stress management.
Massage Envy, the nation’s largest massage therapy provider, offers these eye-opening facts about this age-old wellness treatment:
A study conducted by the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine showed that ongoing massage could lower anxiety, reduce pain, and improve grip strength for those who suffer from arthritis.
Research indicates that massage therapy can boost immunity and reduce hypertension.
Any kind of touch stimulates the release of endorphins (the body’s natural pain killers), can reduce heart rate and lower blood pressure. Imagine how good you would feel after a one-hour massage.
A recent study cited by the American Massage Therapy Association showed that in adults with migraine headaches massage therapy decreased the occurrence of headaches, sleep disturbances and distress symptoms. It also increased serotonin levels, believed to play an important role in the regulation of mood, sleep and appetite.
National Center for Health Statistics found adults age 45-64 years were the most likely to report pain lasting more than 24 hours. Research indicates that massage therapy can reduce chronic pain and stress in people with lower back and neck problems and stiff joints.
