Do you often suffer from tense muscles, soreness, or injury? Look no further. Remedial massage therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free, and effective way to ease your aches and pains. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at what remedial massage therapy is, how it works, and what its benefits are.
History of Remedial Massage Therapy:
Remedial massage therapy has a long history that dates back to ancient civilizations, such as Egypt, China, and India. It was used as a form of healing and relaxation for emperors and warriors alike. Today, remedial massage therapy is still practiced, and is recognized as a legitimate form of therapy by medical professionals worldwide.
How does remedial therapy work?
When we experience an injury or suffer from muscle tension, the body’s natural response is to protect itself. This results in muscle knots, stiffness, and soreness. Remedial therapy works by using different techniques, such as deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy, to ease muscle tension and improve blood flow to the affected area. This, in turn, helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
How is Remedial Massage Therapy performed?
Remedial massage therapy is performed by a qualified therapist who will assess your condition and recommend a treatment plan. A typical session lasts between 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the severity of the condition. The therapist will use a range of techniques, such as deep tissue massage and joint mobilization, to address your specific needs.
What are the specific techniques of Remedial Massage Therapy?
Remedial massage therapy is a combination of different techniques that work together to release tension in the muscles and promote healing. Some of the most common techniques include deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy, stretch therapy, joint mobilization, myofascial release, and thermotherapy and cryotherapy.
- Deep Tissue Massage: This technique applies firm pressure and slow strokes to reach deeper layers of muscle and fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles). It’s used for chronic aches and pain and contracted areas such as a stiff neck and upper back, low back pain, leg muscle tightness, and sore shoulders.
- Trigger Point Therapy: This technique is specifically designed to alleviate the source of the pain through cycles of isolated pressure and release. In this type of massage, the recipient actively participates through deep breathing as well as identifying the exact location and intensity of the discomfort.
- Stretch Therapy: This therapy involves the therapeutic use of stretching to improve flexibility, enhance physical performance, and prevent injuries. The therapist assists the client in performing a series of stretches targeting specific muscle groups.
- Joint Mobilization: This technique involves the passive movement of specific joints using the skilled application of force, direction, and technique. The therapist uses their hands to deliver a controlled force to a joint, moving it within its passive range of motion.
- Myofascial Release: This therapy targets the tissue that covers and connects the muscles. The therapist uses their hands, knuckles, or other tools to slowly stretch the restricted fascia by exerting pressure.
- Thermotherapy and Cryotherapy: These are thermal agents applied to the body to bring about therapeutic changes. Thermotherapy involves the use of heat to relieve pain and enhance mobility. Cryotherapy, on the other hand, involves the application of cold to reduce inflammation and numbs painful areas.
What is Remedial Massage good for?
Remedial massage therapy has a number of proven health benefits, including improved joint mobility, pain relief, improved recovery, reduced depression and anxiety, improved heart rate regulation, and promotion of relaxation. It is also a non-invasive, drug-free, and safe form of therapy that can be used to complement other treatments.
- Improved Joint Mobility: Remedial massage therapy can increase the range of motion in your joints and improve their flexibility. This is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from conditions such as arthritis or those recovering from surgery.
- Pain Relief: The techniques used in remedial massage therapy can help alleviate pain in various parts of the body. They work by releasing tension, reducing inflammation, and promoting the healing of muscles and tissues.
- Improved Recovery: Remedial massage therapy can aid in speeding up recovery from injuries and surgeries. It does this by improving blood circulation, which increases the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the muscles, facilitating quicker repair and regeneration.
- Reduced Depression and Anxiety: Studies have shown that remedial massage therapy can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. It does this by promoting relaxation and releasing endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine – chemicals in the brain that act as natural mood boosters.
- Improved Heart Rate Regulation: Regular remedial massage therapy can help regulate heart rate by reducing stress and promoting relaxation. This can be particularly beneficial for people suffering from heart-related conditions.
- Promotion of Relaxation: Remedial massage therapy induces deep relaxation by decreasing the levels of stress hormones in the body. This not only helps you relax but also improves sleep quality.
- Non-Invasive, Drug-Free, and Safe Therapy: Remedial massage therapy does not require any use of medication or invasive procedures. This makes it a safe choice for anyone looking for natural, holistic methods to improve their health.
- Complementary to Other Treatments: Remedial massage therapy can be used alongside other treatments, such as physiotherapy or chiropractic adjustments. It can enhance the effectiveness of these treatments by relaxing muscles and improving blood flow.
In conclusion, remedial massage therapy is a powerful and effective way to ease your aches and pains, and promote healing. With its long history and proven health benefits, it is no wonder that more and more people are turning to this form of therapy for relief. If you’re interested in trying remedial massage therapy, make sure to find a qualified therapist, such as the amazing clinicians who are your team at GRMM, who can assess your condition and recommend a safe and effective treatment plan.
