Carrianne Popek, LMT

It is well known that massages are relaxing and reduce stress. However there is a connotation of luxury that limits the widespread acknowledgment of the many therapeutic benefits of massage. Massage therapy can be used to address a large variety of physical and emotional issues. Research has shown massage to be beneficial with the following conditions, just to name a few:

 

• Anxiety

• Chronic fatigue

• Depression

• Fibromyalgia

• Migraine headaches

• Pain (Chronic or otherwise)

• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

• Sleep issues

• Scar tissue removal

• Joint and soft tissue mobilization

 

One of the most valuable benefits of any massage is the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system. This brings the client into a sleep-like state and aids homeostasis, or balance, in the body. During this time, deep, diaphragmatic breathing occurs, the digestive system functions more efficiently, and both heart rate and blood pressure are lowered. This also triggers an increase in dopamine (pain relief, eases voluntary movement, encourages clear thinking), serotonin (regulates mood, sleep patterns), and endorphins.

 

Breaking the pain-spasm-pain cycle is another common use for therapeutic massage. The pain-spasm-pain cycle refers to an initial source of pain inducing a muscular response (spasm) and this abrupt response causing more pain, then another spasm and so on.  Massage therapy can interrupt this cycle by reducing muscular tension and increasing circulation. Once the muscle is no longer in spasm or a in a state of hypertension, the cycle stops.

 

 

Those are just a few examples, if you have any questions regarding the possible benefits of massage therapy for any specific or general concerns; feel free to contact me.