How Does Massage Therapy Work?

Why do massages feel so good? Some consider them luxuries and others consider them necessities. Either way, most who enjoy a good massage will remark at how much more relaxed they are and how good they feel after a massage. Recently scientists have begun to ask the question, “Why does massage therapy work?”

Between July 2017 and July 2018 (as of this date, these are the most recent results), the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) reports:

• 62% of people surveyed claim their primary reason for receiving a massage was for medical or health reasons such as pain management, injury rehabilitation, or overall wellness
• 48% received a massage during the same time period for soreness, stiffness/spasms
• 44% received a massage during the same time period for pain relief/management
• 88% agree that massage can be effective in reducing pain
• 66% had a massage for relaxation/stress reduction during the same time period

These are not insignificant numbers; they are substantial. People’s perception of massage has changed. This begs the question, “Why are we moving away from the old belief that massage is only good for relaxation?”

Here are some of my thoughts, backed by science¹, as to why massage therapy works and how it can help you. 

The latest research shows (on a cellular level) that massage therapy helps the body heal. Even after one session, the body starts responding to massage therapy.

Researchers did blood and muscle tests on individuals before and after a vigorous workout; one group received massage therapy after exercise and the other group didn’t. The ‘after massage’ results surprised researchers. The post-massage blood and muscle tissue showed an increase in a gene responsible for mitochondria development. The mitochondria are known for cell growth and energy production. The lifting and kneading of muscle tissue (common Swedish and deep tissue technique) also was shown to ‘turn off’ genes associated with inflammation. The research also contradicted a long believed idea that massage therapy pushes lactic acid out of muscles.

Why does this matter?

This finally proves that massage therapy is improving recovery time after exercise and injury. This is the kind of research and results that will help educate physicians and the general public that massage therapy is a valid treatment for pain, inflammation, and soft-tissue recovery.

Ready to Try It For Yourself?

I specialize in a fully-clothed massage referred to as Pain Management. That’s nothing more than a buzz term that people identify with but it can be more accurately referred to as “Neuro Fascia Release.” Within the Scope of Practice for a Massage Therapist, I work to release triggers that initiated the perception of tightness and pain. I focus on the root cause of the tightness and pain and within an hour, the results are pretty astounding.

It’s certainly not like any massage you’ve experienced before.

Want to give it a try? Give me a call to schedule at (225) 784 – 2168.

In His Grace,

Cathy