Massages are not just enjoyable, but they are also beneficial to our health. Massage therapy is offered in clinics, hospitals, airports and even different businesses. If you want to know more about the health benefits that massages can give, then read on.

Massage means rubbing, pressing and manipulating the skin, muscles, ligaments and tendons. Massages can come as a deep pressure or more a light stroking. I had my best ever massage at a luxury resort in Tasmania last year, and now I’m obsessed. There are several different types of massages available like these:

Deep tissue massage: This is a technique that uses slow forceful strokes in order to reach the deep layer of muscle and tissues. This works well for muscle injuries from sports.

Sports massage: This one is used for those playing sports to help prevent and treat injuries

Swedish massage: This is a lighter gentler way of massaging where long strokes are used, and amore kneading movement is given with vibrations and tapping to help energize you.

Trigger point massage: This is a massage focuses on the areas of the body with tight muscle fibres. These can form with overuse and injuries.

What are the benefits to getting a massage?

Massages are actually considered a part of integrative and complementary medicines. It is now offered in conjunction with the basic treatments give for different medical conditions. Studies that were carried out show that massages are a very effective treatment for reducing high levels of stress and muscle tension. There needs to be more research carried out to prove the other benefits however many people have said that massages are beneficial for:

• Headaches
• Anxiety
• Fibromyalgia
• Digestive disorders
• Insomnia caused by stress
• Soft tissue injuries 
• Sports injuries
• Myofascial pain
• Sports injuries

Going beyond those types of conditions and diseases people tend to get massage as it gives them a strong connection and offers a form of comfort. Remember that massage is a body treatment that you can get at a luxury day spa, and they should not be used instead of medical care. If you have an injury or suffering from a disease, ensure you check with your doctor before going and getting a massage.

What are the risks involved?

While there are benefits available from getting a massage there is also risks involved that you need to be aware of. If you have any of the following speak to our doctor first.

• Fractures
• Bleeding disorders
• Currently taking blood thinners
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Osteoporosis

There are pros and cons with getting massages so ensure you seek advice from a medical professional before getting a massage or if you are currently pregnant.

Some massages can make you feel sore when you wake up the next day. This should however not be extremely uncomfortable. If you think you are not feeling right after the massage let your doctor know. Sometimes problems can arise from too much pressure during a massage. If care is taken and you get a massage done by a trained and experienced professional then sit back, relax and enjoy the feeling of being pampered. Massages can be incorporated into a special time with your partner for a more sensual experience with massages.