The Role of Massage in Pain Management

The Role of Massage in Pain Management

Do you struggle with nagging aches and pains? If so, have you ever considered the impact that massage could have on your well-being?

Massage therapy has long been recognised for its effectiveness in managing pain associated with various conditions. Research has shown that massage can provide relief for individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and lower back pain (Cherkin et al., 2011; Perlman et al., 2020). It has also been found to be beneficial in reducing pain and improving function in individuals with chronic neck pain (Leaver et al., 2020).

How massage supports pain relief

One of the key advantages of massage is its ability to promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension, which can help alleviate pain caused by muscle stiffness and tightness (Moraska et al., 2008). Additionally, massage has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals produced by the body (Field et al., 2010). This can contribute to a decrease in the perception of pain and an improvement in overall well-being.

What’s better?  A masseuse or a massage chair?

While many people love the experience of going to a massage therapist for that personal, hands on experience, Massage chairs offer a convenient and accessible way to experience the benefits of massage therapy for pain management, any time you need it. Unlike traditional massage therapy sessions with a masseuse, massage chairs provide on-demand relief in the comfort of your own home or office, time and time again. They offer a range of massage techniques, including kneading, tapping, rolling, and shiatsu, which can be customised to target specific areas of pain (Hernández-Reif et al., 2001).

Another advantage of massage chairs is their ability to provide consistent pressure and intensity, which may be difficult to achieve with manual massage. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic pain conditions who require regular and reliable pain management techniques (Field, 2014).

Furthermore, massage chairs offer a cost-effective alternative to regular visits to a massage therapist. While the initial investment in a massage chair may be higher, thanks to handy and easy payment options, it can ultimately save you money over time, compared to the recurring costs of professional massage sessions.

In conclusion, massage therapy, whether delivered through traditional methods or massage chairs, plays a valuable role in pain management. Its ability to reduce muscle tension, promote relaxation, and stimulate the release of endorphins makes it a versatile and effective option for individuals seeking relief from chronic pain conditions.

Thinking of trying a massage chair?  Why not pop into one of our retail, flagship or experience stores and try it out for yourself!  You’ll love it.

References

Cherkin, D. C., Sherman, K. J., Kahn, J., Wellman, R., Cook, A. J., Johnson, E., … & Deyo, R. A. (2011). A comparison of the effects of 2 types of massage and usual care on chronic low back pain: a randomized, controlled trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, 155(1), 1-9.

Field, T. (2014). Massage therapy research review. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 20(4), 224-229.

Field, T., Diego, M., & Hernandez-Reif, M. (2010). Moderate pressure is essential for massage therapy effects. International Journal of Neuroscience, 120(5), 381-385.

Hernández-Reif, M., Field, T., Krasnegor, J., Theakston, H., & Hossain, Z. (2001). High blood pressure and associated symptoms were reduced by massage therapy. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 5(4), 297-306.

Leaver, A. M., Maher, C. G., Herbert, R. D., Latimer, J., McAuley, J. H., & Jull, G. (2020). A randomized controlled trial comparing manipulation with mobilization for recent onset neck pain. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 101(3), 443-450.

Moraska, A., Pollini, R. A., Boulanger, K., Brooks, M. Z., & Teitlebaum, L. (2008). Physiological adjustments to stress measures following massage therapy: a review of the literature. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 7(4), 409-418.

Perlman, A. I., Ali, A., Njike, V. Y., Hom, D., Davidi, A., Gould-Fogerite, S., … & Katz, D. L. (2020). Massage therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled trial. Archives of Internal Medicine, 172(9), 9-22.