For most adults, having a massage is a wonderful means of relaxation after a long, tiring week at work. It is commonly thought of as kneading of body parts, depending on the style and the rhythm used by a masseuse. It is considered to be a rejuvenating method. However, did you know that getting your body kneaded, rubbed or pressured is not designed solely for adults alone? While most people think that children’s body may be too vulnerable to undergo kneading, children can actually acquire numerous benefits out of a masseuse on a regular basis. Another problem commonly faced by parents is finding time to give their children a healthy rubdown.
Massage Health Benefits
There are numerous types of body work rubdown techniques used in present times but all of them provide the same benefits for most people. These benefits include a reduction in recovery time after an injury, promotion of healing, alleviation of pain, increase of energy as well as promote relaxation. It is also beneficial for people who are suffering from a variety of musculoskeletal predicaments including strains, sprains, osteoarthritis, low back pain and fibromyalgia. It is also known to help decrease the symptoms of depression in patients suffering from chronic constipation, sleep disorders, low self-esteem as well as chronic fatigue syndrome. These are not just claims, mind you. There are numerous clinical trials supporting the efficacy of massage in these health problems. In fact, a study has shown that kneading on the deep tissues can help decrease blood pressure in as much as 10.4 mmHg in systolic pressure and 5.3 mmHg in diastolic pressure. Another study has found that a good rubdown can help relieve the pain associated with chronic back pain sufferers compared to conventional treatment such as acupuncture and pharmacological methods. Newborns that are rubbed by their mothers tend to bond better, cry less, and become more active, sociable and alert. Children who are diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), cystic fibrosis, diabetes, bulimia, autism, atopic dermatitis/eczema and rheumatoid arthritis are also benefited by a good rubdown.
One of the best ways to get a massage is to buy a massage chair so that you can use it at home. There are many shiatsu massage chairs available but always ensure that you read reviews before purchasing as each one will have different types of features. Massage chairs may seem expensive at first, but you should think of them as an investment in your health. Also, in the long run, you will actually save money as a quality massage session can cost over $100 whereas a good quality chair will cost just $1000 – something that will be recouped after only 10 uses or 10 week if you normally have a massage every week.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Massage?
Typically, undergoing kneading or rubbing from a certified masseuse is deemed to be safe. However, there have been complaints of pain and rare side effects brought about by a tremendously forceful rubdown method. Nevertheless, there are certain medical conditions wherein patients are contraindicated from undergoing massage therapy. These include people who are suffering from kidney failure, phlebitis (infection of the superficial veins), cellulitis (infection of the soft tissue), bleeding disorders, heart failure, blood clots in the lower extremities and contagious skin conditions. Pregnant women should also look for a masseuse who is certified to giving rubdown techniques specified for pregnant women. People who have diabetes should also have their blood sugar levels checked before undergoing a massage. Although a good rubdown can be helpful in regulating blood sugar levels, it can have a harmful effect if the sugar in the blood is extremely low.
While massages may be a time for relaxation, it is important to ensure that there are no negative side effects that may occur afterwards. Check for a certified masseuse and don’t get a massage when you have any of the listed medical conditions.