Massage for Chronic Pain

Millions of people throughout the world battle chronic pain. While many think of it as just some mild achiness or soreness somewhere that comes and goes on a regular basis, those who live with it every day know it is far more than that. Chronic pain can be debilitating and can take a toll on many other aspects of life.

People can experience widespread pain that can affect numerous areas of the body, such as that associated with Fibromyalgia or Chronic Myofascial Pain Syndrome. Others may experience chronic pain more specifically isolated to an area, due to an injury or surgery.

Unfortunately, the medical community still struggles with how to handle chronic pain. Other than surgical repairs to injuries, pain medications, injections, and the like, many chronic pain sufferers are left exasperated and feeling hopeless. But it doesn’t have to be that way. 

Is Massage Therapy An Effective Solution For Chronic Pain?

Did you know that massage therapy and other complementary forms of healthcare are becoming more and more prominent in the fight against chronic pain? For some, the idea of a person massaging their sore body is wonderful, and for others it’s terrifying. They don’t want to experience any more pain than they do already. 

When it comes to massage therapy, there are many types of massage you can choose to treat your chronic pain. If you still haven’t found a solution to ease your pain, it’s definitely worth exploring the many different types of massage. The best way to do this is to set up a consultation with a few different massage therapists in your area. 

Chances are very good that you can find a massage that is tailored to your needs completely. If that means doing the lightest form of pressure possible, that’s what you’ll get. If you want those sore areas “worked out”, that can be done too. 

Communication with the massage therapist is key. If you want more or less pressure, let them know. If a certain area is too painful to touch that day, that’s fine too. It’s all about what you need, what you want, and what is best for you in the long run.

Benefits of Massage Therapy for Chronic Pain

Massage therapy isn’t just a relaxation method for those suffering from chronic pain; there are actually numerous benefits that can possibly help to ease your pain, both short-term and long-term. Beyond the initial relaxing of the body and calming of the mind during a massage, the act of physical touch has been shown time and again in research to have amazing benefits. Stretches and range of motion exercises can help to ease stiffness in the joints and improve movement. Healthy, safe touch causes your body to release several hormones (oxytocin) and neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins) that dull the pain and make you feel better. 

At the same time, massage stimulates your nervous system in a way that can “reset” things on many levels. You’re basically re-training your nerves in how to perceive touch and pain – something that is theorized to be at the heart of chronic pain.

If you’re suffering from chronic pain, or know someone who is, and you haven’t found a solid solution yet, massage therapy would definitely be a good addition to your current treatment plan.

Have a look at our massage rates and packages. If you live in the Palm Springs area, Desert Serenity is your answer for the best massage, spa, and float experience. Give us a call today!