Massage therapy is a holistic health care practice that involves the manipulation of soft body tissues, including muscles and connective tissue. It is a popular form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) that is used to treat a variety of conditions, including stress, pain, anxiety, and depression.
There is a growing body of scientific research that supports the benefits of massage therapy. Studies have shown that massage can be effective in reducing stress, improving circulation, relieving pain, and improving sleep quality.
Stress
Massage therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing stress. One study found that massage therapy reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol by up to 30%. Massage therapy has also been shown to improve sleep quality and mood in people who are stressed.
Pain
Massage therapy has been shown to be effective in relieving pain. One study found that massage therapy was as effective as ibuprofen in relieving muscle pain. Massage therapy has also been shown to be effective in relieving pain from headaches, arthritis, and other conditions.
Anxiety
Massage therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety. One study found that massage therapy reduced anxiety levels by up to 50%. Massage therapy has also been shown to improve sleep quality and mood in people who are anxious.
Other Benefits
In addition to reducing stress, pain, and anxiety, massage therapy has also been shown to be effective in improving a variety of other conditions, including:
- Depression
- High blood pressure
- Insomnia
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Cancer
Safety
Massage therapy is generally safe for most people. However, there are some people who should avoid massage therapy, such as people with open wounds or infections, people with cancer, people with blood clots, people with osteoporosis, people with heart disease, people with epilepsy, and people who are pregnant.
If you are considering trying massage therapy, be sure to talk to your doctor first.