The power of massage therapy is no longer just anecdotal. In fact, it is backed by decades of scientific research, with some of the most innovative studies being less than 10 years old. Whether you're an elite athlete or just someone who enjoys a hard workout, therapeutic massage can be one of the best recovery tools for sore muscles. Stress can be transmitted to the muscles, and massage can help to relax them and release the tension that has built up.
There are many ailments that are associated with pain, and massage can help to resolve “kinks” and lessen the pain in specific areas. But what other benefits does medical massage offer? Let's take a look at some of the research that has been conducted in recent years.
Reducing Anxiety
A study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice found that massage therapy can reduce anxiety levels in patients with cancer. The study involved 60 participants who were randomly assigned to either a massage therapy group or a control group. The results showed that those who received massage therapy had significantly lower levels of anxiety than those in the control group.Improving Sleep Quality
Another study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine looked at the effects of massage therapy on sleep quality.The results showed that those who received massage therapy had significantly better sleep quality than those in the control group.
Reducing Pain
A study published in The Journal of Pain looked at the effects of massage therapy on pain levels. The results showed that those who received massage therapy had significantly lower levels of pain than those in the control group.Improving Range of Motion
A study published in The Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy looked at the effects of massage therapy on range of motion. The results showed that those who received massage therapy had significantly better range of motion than those in the control group.Conclusion
As you can see, there are many benefits to medical massage. From reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality to reducing pain and improving range of motion, there is no doubt that this type of therapy can be beneficial for many people.If you're looking for an effective way to manage your stress, improve your sleep quality, reduce your pain, or improve your range of motion, then medical massage may be just what you need.
