How do medical massages help treat chronic pain?

At any given moment, millions of people across the country suffer from chronic pain. While some people have found proper treatments that provide some level of pain relief, it’s often not enough. Many find themselves having trouble functioning in daily life.

Many people who suffer from pain have started turning to massage as a routine treatment for relief. Doctors have even jumped into the mix and have recommended massage treatments, particularly medical massages. Today, we’re going to explain the physical and mental benefits of medical massages, and explain what you can expect during a massage session.

What is a Medical Massage? 

A medical massage is a form of massage therapy that’s been prescribed by a doctor. The doctor will usually provide detailed information of the condition and how it should be treated. The massage therapist will take these directions and then create a customized treatment to target the issues that have been outlined by the physician. This targeted type of treatment is tailored specifically to your health needs and will help you recover faster. Treatment typically lasts for several short sessions, depending on the severity of the problem and your physician’s recommendation.

Is a Prescription Required?

Most people tend to think of prescriptions in the form of pills or other types of medication, but yes, a prescription is required for a medical massage. Since a massage therapist isn’t permitted to diagnose a patient, the patient may need to visit a physician for a prescription.

Even though the therapist will follow the doctor’s description, the treatment isn’t limited to any certain type of technique or procedure. He or she will develop a customized plan of treatment that will take the doctor’s recommendations into account. The therapist will also apply their own experience and expertise.

Can Massages Relieve Chronic Pain?

The use of massage for chronic pain has been well-documented for years. In fact, many patients make massage a part of their regular pain management routine. Massages can help decrease inflammation, release muscle tension and soreness, and calm and soothe your nervous system.

All of these factors can help treat both temporary and chronic pain.

Other Physical Benefits of Getting a Medical Massage

In addition to pain relief, getting a medical massage also has other physical benefits. Not only does it help with digestion, but it will also improve your posture, coordination, flexibility, and range of motion. Massages can also relieve headaches, nerve pain, soft tissue strains and injuries, and other physical issues as well.

Emotional/Mental Benefits of Getting a Medical Massage

The best type of treatments are those that help you not just physically, but also emotionally and mentally. Everyone knows that massages are very relaxing. However, many people are unaware of the wide range of non-physical benefits they’ll receive from it. Massage sessions can help to:

  • Lower your stress level
  • Improve your mood
  • Help you sleep better
  • Decrease feelings of anxiety and depression
  • Give you an increased feeling of overall wellness

Specific Conditions Massages Can Help

Although massages are often used to treat general chronic pain and mental/emotional elements, there are certain conditions that they can specifically target. These include medical problems such as digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, post-operative care, TMJ disorders, sports injuries, insomnia, etc. If you have any type of physical or mental issue, speak with your doctor and ask them whether adding a massage routine would be beneficial in treating your chronic pain or condition.

What to Expect During and After a Medical Massage

During the massage, the therapist will lightly and firmly rub and knead your body to increase blood flow to targeted muscles. With this type of massage, the therapist follow a description of the problem, so it’s often more focused than a normal massage. The massage therapist is aware that your muscles may be susceptible to pain because they’re more sensitive, so if you feel discomfort, let them know and they’ll make adjustments.

After your massage is complete, you’ll typically feel more relaxed. You may also feel tired or even a little sore from having your muscles manipulated by the therapist. Depending on the thoroughness of the massage and the areas being treated, it might feel like you just had a full workout.

Some patients report having a headache or nausea. These negative feelings tend to pass in a very short period of time. However, as stated above, if you feel that too much pressure was used, just let the therapist know for the next time.

Contact East West Healing Solutions for a Medical Massages

East West Healing Solutions can assist you with massages, yogaacupuncture, and other techniques that treat physical and mental issues. If you have any questions about our services, call us at (727) 216-3972 today to schedule an appointment.