The Benefits of Remedial Massage
What is remedial massage?
Remedial massage is a form of massage therapy, that aims to treat any muscles that are damaged, knotted, tense or immobile. A massage therapist uses various techniques and pressures to locate and promote healing of the affected muscles. By doing this, a remedial massage holistically treats the entire body by managing the source of discomfort to alleviate the cause of the problem along with the symptoms experienced. Although it Is often stereotypically perceived as a luxury, remedial massage is a targeted treatment plan and has a range of therapeutic benefits for those who are suffering with injured or aching muscles.
How does remedial massage work to relieve pain?
Not only is it useful to repair damaged muscles, remedial massage is an effective treatment in reducing the severity of chronic issues like sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, labour pain and even tension headaches. In fact, remedial massage works by balancing the length, tone and tension of the soft tissue to promote a functional joint position and mobility. Doing this can also help reduce spasms and muscle cramps and promotes the regeneration of the tissue. The massage also increases the blood flow which allows for the improved circulation of oxygen and nutrients around the body and improves lymphatic drainage or swelling, particularly in the affected area. Therefore, this assists in removing blockages, damaged cells, scar tissues and adhesions that are a result of injury or chronic pain.
What are other benefits of remedial massage?
More so, remedial massage has proven to have a positive effect on the endocrine or hormonal system. When we experience pain or stress which can be attributed to an injury or chronic issues, the stress hormone cortisol is increased. The relaxing nature of the massage therefore helps to lower the cortisol levels resulting in reduced stress and pain. Stress hormones have also been linked to a weakened immune system which can be improved with massage therapy to lower cortisol and therefore boost immunity.
Remedial massage also promotes an increase of serotonin and dopamine, which helps improve an individual’s mood, again leading to lower levels of stress and therefore pain. It is believed that lower levels of cortisol and higher levels of serotonin and dopamine also help reduce anxiety and enhance concentration, sleep and energy levels.
Remedial Sports Massage
Remedial massage is also extremely beneficial for athletes and active individuals. As remedial massage aims to repair soft tissues that are damaged, knotted or impaired, which can all occur through strenuous exercise and sporting activities, the techniques involved help enhance recovery and minimise the healing time. It also aims to improve the muscle function, therefore leading to improved athletic performance.
There are numerous proven benefits of remedial massage. Our remedial massage therapists at Spinal and Sports Care have a thorough understanding of anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology to develop suitable treatment plans for individuals suffering from chronic pain or soft tissue injuries. It is recommended that remedial massages should be performed consistently to promote healing and allow for improved mobility and function of the affected area. It will alleviate pain associated with chronic conditions and prevent them from being problematic. For more information on remedial massage at our Castle Hill, Wetherill Park and Parramatta locations, contact us on (02) 9683 1110 or book an appointment online.