Introduction

Massage used to be available only at high-end spas or health clubs, and some people viewed it as a luxury for the wealthy. Now massage is widely available and viewed as an important tool in promoting mental and physical health.

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Massage is increasingly being offered along with standard treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations. If you have never tried massage, read on to learn about its many benefits.

 

A common misconception about massage is that it's only part of a spa day and intended for pampering yourself. While this may be true for some people, it is most frequently a tool for stress reduction and pain relief.

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Some specific conditions that massage can help include:

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Physical benefits

For most patients, massage therapy is an important part of specific medical treatment plans to help them return to daily activities. For example, massage therapy is helpful after joint replacement surgery or injury.

 

Physical benefits of massage include:​​

 

 

 

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Mental benefits

Massage also has many mental health benefits. Even people who are focused on the physical benefits say they feel less stressed after getting a massage.

 

Other mental benefits include:

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After a massage

It's common to feel relaxed, tired, or even sore after a massage. This is because your muscles are being worked by the massage therapist. After a massage, it may feel like you completed a workout. 

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Some people think that massage must hurt to help. But a massage doesn't need to be painful to be effective. Occasionally you may have a sensitive spot in a muscle that feels like a knot. It's likely to be uncomfortable while your massage therapist works it out. But if it becomes painful, speak up!

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Source: Mayo Clinic Health System