Beneficial Effects of Massage

There are various techniques of hands-on massage. Massage can stretch and loosen muscle and connective tissue. It stimulates the flow of blood and lymphatic fluid, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the muscle and taking toxins and metabolic waste products away. The release of muscle tension can help to alleviate aches and pains associated with sitting at a computer or driving. The release of endorphins during a massage treatment also helps to give us that ‘feel good’ factor. It is particularly effective in the treatment of sciatica and carpal tunnel syndrome as well as in the treatment of sports injuries or injuries caused through accidents. Back pain is something from which many people suffer; massage can help relax the back muscles and so reduce pain and stiffness and increase mobility.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the restriction of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. The symptoms can range from severe pain to tingling in the finger tips. There are various causes of this, including swollen tendons which restrict the nerve, or scar tissue which reduces the amount of room for movement. In both cases massage is very effective in alleviating the symptoms and can remove the causes.

Sciatica

Piriformis syndrome is usually referred to as sciatica. The piriformis, which rotates the hip, is very close to the sciatic nerve. If this muscle is tight or in spasm it can press against the sciatic nerve causing pain to radiate down the legs. Massage can release the spasm in the muscle and help ease symptoms.

Sports Injuries

Pulled muscles, muscle stiffness and over-use injuries can all be helped with an arsenal of remedial massage techniques. Regular massage can help to spot potential problems before they become injuries.