1. We don’t really know how massage works
Research is varied and often conflicting
2. Muscle knots are a ‘real thing’
Knots are known medically as ‘Myofascial Trigger Points’. Myofascia is connective tissue that surrounds muscles. The widely believed theory is that injury/trauma, repetitive strain or even stress can result in a reduction of blood supply to an area or an increase of certain chemicals that sensitise tissue and can cause pain.
3. It isn’t always risk free
While massage is generally safe and low risk, it should still be performed by a trained professional as some medical conditions may mean it is not suitable for you. Your masseuse should always ask you about any medications, injuries, or illnesses.
4. Tool assisted treatments are not more effective
There is no strong evidence that tool assisted treatments like dry needling or cupping are any more effective. It therefore comes down to personal preference and what you feel works for you. Treatment does not always need to be complicated, aggressive or with equipment for you to still receive results.
SO WHY DO WE BENEFIT FROM MASSAGE?
5. It may have some physiological effects;
- Increased lymphatic flow
- Positively affect the immune system
- Increase blood flow to muscles
- Lower blood pressure
- Pleasantly stimulate nerve fibres which may momentarily ‘block’ unpleasant pain messages from reaching the brain (aiding in pain relief)
- Help relieve Myofascial Trigger Points
- Encourage a parasympathetic state of the nervous system (rest and digest)
6. IT FEELS GOOD!
Treatment can increase serotonin and endorphins which can help with pain relief. It also can help with sleep and relaxation, all of which aid the body with recovery and healing.
BOOK WITH OUR AMAZING MASSEUSE HENRY TODAY
BONUS: A NICE TECHNIQUE YOU CAN TRY AT HOME IF YOU CLENCH YOUR JAW
Bervoets, D.C., Luijsterburg, P.A., Alessie, J, J., Buijs, M. & Verhagen A.P. (2015). Massage therapy has short-term benefits for people with common musculoskeletal disorders compared to no treatment: a systematic review, Journal of Physiotherapy, 61 (3), pp. 106-116, doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphys.2015.05.018.
Cheatham, S. W., Lee, M., Cain, M., & Baker, R. (2016). The efficacy of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization: a systematic review. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 60(3), pp, 200–211.
Gattie, E., Cleland, J. A., & Snodgrass, S. (2017). The Effectiveness of Trigger Point Dry Needling for Musculoskeletal Conditions by Physical Therapists: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. The Journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy, 47(3), pp. 133–149 doi: https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2017.7096
Mohamed, A. A., Zhang, X., & Jan, Y. K. (2023). Evidence-based and adverse-effects analyses of cupping therapy in musculoskeletal and sports rehabilitation: A systematic and evidence-based review. Journal of back and musculoskeletal rehabilitation, 36(1), pp. 3–19, doi: https://doi.org/10.3233/BMR-210242
Shah, J. P., Thaker, N., Heimur, J., Aredo, J. V., Sikdar, S., & Gerber, L. (2015). Myofascial Trigger Points Then and Now: A Historical and Scientific Perspective. PM & R : the journal of injury, function, and rehabilitation, 7(7), pp. 746–761m doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmrj.2015.01.024
