The thought of visiting a spa evokes feelings of pleasure and relaxation as a client lies on the table while the therapist caresses the skin with scented oils. However, it also has multiple health and wellness benefits. One such benefit is its application to the treatment of bone and joint inflammations.
Massage Therapy for Arthritis
Massage therapy is effective on people with a stiff spinal cord, which is a form of inflammation that affects the spinal joints. Gentle pressing of the muscles around the joints causes them to relax and reduces stiffness that causes excruciating pain. Experts note that massage therapy relieves pain by counteracting the tight hold of the joints by muscles, which is a major source of discomfort.
Health experts also recommend massage therapy for other types of joint pain because it is a noninvasive way of reducing inflammation. Indeed a recent study revealed that massage triggers the release of anti-inflammation compounds, which cause relaxation. The researchers noted that full-body massage could relieve arthritic pain because it stimulates relaxation. They advise arthritics to apply moderate pressure because it stimulates neurotransmitters to signal the release of serotonin. This is the hormone that induces relaxation and sleep.
Most Effective Techniques for Joint Pain
Swedish massage: It is effective against joint pain due to the kneading, long strokes, and varying pressure applications. The different movements allow for both deep and light pressure, which is great for stimulating blood circulation.
Hot stone massage: It is a technique which involves the placement of a warm stone on the back while the client is laying on a table. The therapist will also knead muscles with hands to improve heat transfer. The heat soothes muscles and tissues to stimulate relaxation.
Lymphatic massage: This refers to a form of a detox therapy which involves the use of light strokes to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluids in the blood. It is especially effective on people with osteoarthritis because it drains excess fluids released by the inflamed joints.
Shiatsu: This is an Asian technique which involves touching pressure points to relieve pain in different parts of the body. The areas targeted depend on the type of pain and parts affected. The therapist may stretch limbs and apply pressure on the joints to relieve pain.
Deep tissue massage: It involves applying intense pressure on both surface and deep muscles and tissue. The technique seeks to relieve deep tension and pain in the body. It reduces joint pain by stimulating blood circulation and the release of relaxation hormones.
Myofascial release: It is a technique which relaxes muscles by manipulating the tissues that connect them to the nerves and blood vessels. The therapist stimulates relaxation by gently pressing the skin around major joints, such as the ankles, hips, and knees.