massage

Swedish massage therapy, the most widely used type of massage, is the most common. It uses soft, long, kneading strokes along with light, rhythmic tapping strokes to reach the topmost layers. You may also incorporate movement of your joints. Swedish therapy can relax and energize muscles by relieving tension. This therapy may also be helpful for injuries.

Researchers in Thailand studied the effects of Thai massage on a group of 120 people with nonspecific low back pain. Half the test group was treated with Thai massage and the rest with other conservative management techniques that included joint mobilization (a technique that involves applying pressure), hot packs, and manual stretching to painful areas.

Brush aside any thoughts that massage is only a feel-good way to indulge or pamper yourself. To the contrary, massage can be a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and well-being, whether you have a specific health condition or are just looking for another stress reliever. You can even learn how to do self-massage or how to engage in massage with a partner at home.

Depending on preference, your massage therapist may use oil or lotion to reduce friction on your skin. Tell your massage therapist if you might be allergic to any ingredients.

Ask your doctor or someone else you trust for a recommendation. Most states regulate massage therapists through licensing, registration or certification requirements.

Muscle knots can be very painful, but they can be treated. We discuss your options and when to see a physician.

A massage session may last from 10 to 90 minutes, depending on the type of massage and how much time you have. No matter what kind of massage you choose, you should feel calm and relaxed during and after your massage. Breathe normally throughout your massage.

A 2021 review of 17 studies found some evidence that MLD in early stages following breast cancer surgery may help prevent progression to clinical lymphedema, though it may not provide any benefit for moderate to severe lymphedema.

New research reveals the connection between nature and well-being is more significant than previously thought. Nature provides "intangible…

Cranial sacral treatment is a gentle manipulation and stimulation of the bones of your skull, spine, pelvis and brain that helps to regulate the flow of cerebrospinal water in your central nervous system. It can also lead to deep relaxation.

Studies have found that people who receive Thai massage test lower on measures of psychological stress following treatment.

The idea behind cranial sacral therapy is that gentle manipulation of the bones in the skull, spine, and pelvis, can help the flow of cerebrospinal fluid in the central nervous system. It can also produce deeply relaxing results.