What are the disadvantages and advantages of massage therapy

Anyone who has ever had a massage knows how much it soothes the muscles and mind. In addition to relaxation, you can also benefit from light therapy. However, there are some drawbacks to massage therapy that patients should be aware of before undergoing a full body session at a massage clinic. The advantages and disadvantages are: 

Benefits of Massage Therapy

Relaxes Muscles:

Massage therapy is used to improve blood and lymph circulation. Tension in the tissues surrounding your muscles is reduced, allowing you to feel relaxed and at ease. Increased blood circulation increases oxygen supply to damaged cells and reduces injury healing time. 

Lowers blood pressure:

According to one study, massage therapy can lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients in just 5 minutes. It is believed that the relaxing effects of massage can help achieve this benefit. 

Reduces pain:

Massage therapy is a common treatment for pain relief. One of the main reasons people seek massage therapy is pain relief. Massage relieves pain by dispersing fluids that cause muscle swelling and tension. It also releases endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving hormones. 

Improves energy levels:

Massage therapy increases blood circulation and removes fluid buildup within the muscles. The result is more energy and stamina to tackle the next day. Studies have shown that massage therapy is associated with increased energy levels in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. In fact, most of them reported feeling more energetic after the massage. 

Reduces stress levels:

It’s no secret that massage therapy is great for reducing stress levels. One study found that just one massage was enough to reduce cortisol (a hormone released when you’re stressed) and mood-related symptoms.

Disadvantages of Massage Therapy

Side Effects:

Side effects associated with massage therapy are rare. However, these may include nausea, headaches, muscle pain during massage, bruising, and possibly bleeding, fatigue, dizziness, mental/emotional distress (anxiety), fainting, and skin irritation. 

Can be expensive:

Massage therapy can be expensive, depending on which therapist you go to and the type of massage you receive. If you have insurance, some of the cost of massage therapy may be covered, but if you don’t have insurance, it can be quite expensive. 

Not always available:

Massage therapy is not always available. Although this treatment is becoming more common, it is not as widely known as other treatments such as medication or surgery. If you don’t live near a doctor, you may have to travel long distances for treatment. 

Time consuming:

Massage therapy can be time consuming. Depending on the type of massage you receive, sessions can last from 30 minutes to two hours. If you don’t have time, this may not be the best treatment for you. 

It can be uncomfortable:

Some people find massage therapy uncomfortable. If you’re not used to someone touching your body in a certain way, it may take some time to get used to it.

Author: MedBlog18 Blog Team

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