Benefits of Massage Therapy through the Female Lifespan

by | May 2, 2022

Moms! Take some well-deserved time to yourself! Fully unwind and feel like yourself again.

Sure, it’s fun to plan a spa weekend with the girls. Who doesn’t love a relaxing massage when you’re on vacation with your significant other? Occasional massage, however, won’t combat the ongoing, day to day stress that causes tension and discomfort, and it won’t counteract the long-term impact of slouched posture, stiff neck and shoulders, repetitive stress and low back pain.

Regular massage, as part of a healthy lifestyle to help keep your body feeling well, is beneficial for the long haul. Here are some specific reasons moms could benefit from massage therapy, at any age or stage of your journey.

Prenatal massage

Research shows that massage can reduce stress hormones in your body and relax and loosen your muscles. It can also increase blood flow, which is so important when you’re pregnant, and keep your lymphatic system working at peak efficiency. Massage also reconnects your mind with your body, a connection that’s comforting if you sometimes wonder if there’s a baby in there or if an alien has taken up residence inside of you. During pregnancy, regular prenatal massage may not only help you relax, but may also relieve:

  • Insomnia
  • Joint pain
  • Neck and back pain
  • Leg cramping
  • Sciatica
  • Swelling in your hands and feet (as long as that swelling isn’t a result of preeclampsia)
  • Carpal tunnel pain
  • Headaches and sinus congestion

Postpartum massage

While postpartum massage may not seem like anything special, receiving one can benefit your mood and speed your healing.

Postpartum massages usually include many of the same techniques and elements of Swedish massage. Women who get a massage after giving birth will likely notice many benefits to their body and mood.

While these are good enough reasons for anyone to want a massage, new mothers in particular should consider massage therapy. Massage offers specific benefits for your health during the fourth trimester. You should always check with your doctor when it is safe to resume massage due to blood clots or other side effects of pregnancy. Benefits of massage for the postpartum mom include:

  • Reduced swelling
  • Improved milk production
  • Hormone regulation
  • Reduced anxiety and depression
  • Better sleep
  • Decreased neck and shoulder tension (which increases with holding, feeding and looking down at baby)

Surprising physical benefits of Massage 

Although a massage is a great way to relax and get away from the stress of the real world, it can also provide women with a range of surprising physical benefits. A massage can boost your immunity, improve sleep, relieve pain and reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). 

Women who experience PMS symptoms such as bloating, cramping, irritability, or mood swings every month, assume they have to suffer through it. Massage therapy is a great way to alleviate these symptoms thanks to improved circulation, reduced muscle tension, and the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine—all of which can help you feel more comfortable in your own skin.

The best way to treat PMS symptoms is to anticipate them and treat them ahead of time. Track your PMS symptoms so you can regularly check-in with how your body feels. Plan your next massage for your next cycle to treat your symptoms before they become overwhelming or uncomfortable.

Massage benefits for Older Women

If you’re over the age of 50 and struggle with arthritis or a decreased range of motion, massage therapy can be beneficial for combatting pain or discomfort.  For example, Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, typically targets joints by breaking down tissue at the end of the bones, causing painful swelling and stiffness.

Regularly including a massage in your wellness routine can decrease inflammation and lower the body’s amount of stress promoting a decrease in your body’s physical discomfort. 

It’s important to remember that you can personalize your massage experience by discussing your symptoms, your pain tolerance, and the desired amount of pressure you’d like to receive with your massage therapist.

There isn’t a “one size fits all” when choosing a massage. Please remember that you can personalize your massage experience by discussing your preferences and goals for your treatment with your therapist. Massage is intended to feel relaxing and comfortable. Take the time to consider which type of massage is right for you. At the clinic, we offer:

  • Swedish Massage
  • Deep Tissue Massage
  • Sports Massage
  • Therapeutic Massage
  • Pregnancy and Postpartum Massage

Could you benefit from massage therapy?

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