Massages: How Often Should You Get One

A physiotherapist in Marrickville has been asked, ”How often should I get a massage.” The short response is to get massages as often as your body demands it. The longer version of the answer considers several factors influencing the frequency, type, and when to get massages. 

Getting a massage every week can help alleviate stress and release tension; however, this may be an unrealistic schedule for healthy but busy individuals with a lot of roles. On the other hand, accident or injury victims can take advantage of massages to relieve pain and aid in faster recovery. For this class of people, regular massages may not just be recommended but essential towards living a healthy life.

What Is Ideal?

The ideal massage frequency depends on the individual, the duration of each massage, the aim of the massage, and the massage type. There are different types of massages, and each one has its distinct characteristics that can influence frequency. To help you draw a better mental image, below are the benefits of massages and the common types of massages, along with their recommended frequency.

Benefits Of Choosing Massage

Massages offer a lot of benefits; however, the key benefits you stand to enjoy from regular massages include: Pain relief Release of muscle tension Stress reduction Lower heart rate and blood pressure

Massage Frequency Based On Massage Type

Lymphatic Drainage Massage: This massage is targeted at the lymph nodes and focuses on draining them. A lymphatic drainage massage is most recommended for patients who have recently undergone surgical procedures or those who suffer from medical conditions that cause fluids to build up in their lymph nodes. This massage can be had daily or between two to three times weekly, depending on fluid buildup. A professional is recommended for this type of massage.

Deep Tissue Massage: This massage often involves forceful yet slow strokes. The aim is to reach a deeper depth and address bigger issues underneath the layers of muscles and connective tissues. Deep tissue massages are not only great for alleviating pain, combating stress, and releasing knots; they can also be used in treating muscle damages. Depending on the injury type, deep tissue massages can be performed daily, a few times a week, bi-weekly, or a few times a month. In most cases, massage therapists can be trusted to recommend the right frequency and duration for each massage session.

Scalp Massage: Scalp massages offer many benefits, including improved relaxation, better blood circulation to boost hair growth, and more. Patients suffering from high blood pressure can also leverage this massage to enjoy lower blood pressure and heart rate. The frequency of this massage depends on personal preferences.

Full-Body Massage: This is often called Swedish massage and focuses on all muscles and connective tissues in the body. A full body massage may be recommended after weeks or months of accumulated stress. This type of massage promotes relaxation, improves sleep quality, aids in relieving stress, and also boosts immunity. Swedish massages can be had weekly, fortnightly, or monthly, depending on personal preference.

Massage Chair: Many people have invested in massage chairs to increase relaxation and sleep quality after a long and stressful day. Massage chairs are instrumental to reducing stress and aches in the joints. A recent study revealed that adults who spend at least 20 minutes in a massage chair would likely enjoy more health benefits. With a massage chair, your massage frequency may jump up. Most people who own a massage chair sit in it every day.

Massage Frequency Based on Conditions Suffered

The frequency of your massage appointment may also be affected by the type of condition you suffer from. Some health conditions require more regular massages compared to others. Below are the common conditions and the frequency of massages required.

Back Pain: People suffering from back pain may find it difficult to stand or sit for a prolonged period. Many also suffer from poor sleep due to the condition. To alleviate the symptoms of back pain, a 30-minute session of deep tissue massage can help. According to a recent study, deep tissue massages performed for an average of 30 minutes for ten days offered significant improvements. The American College of Physicians has also included massages as a treatment modality for low back pain lasting 12 weeks.

Neck Pain: Neck pain can be addressed with massages, whether due to the impact of a car accident or other incidents. Patients suffering from short-term neck pain have been revealed to stand a better chance of healing when massages are performed for 60 minutes, two to three times a week. For mild neck pain, a 60 or 30-minute massage once a week can be helpful.

Anxiety and Stress: Anxiety, stress, and other related mental health problems can be managed with massage therapy. A study revealed that 66% of stressed and anxious people recorded positive results after undergoing massage therapy. To alleviate mental health problems, consider a 60-minute massage from a professional. Be sure to ask for massages tailored to improve relaxation, blood circulation, and stress relief.

Pregnancy: Pregnancy comes with a lot of physiological and hormonal changes. These changes affect the status quo of the pregnant person and may cause them to experience pain and discomforting sensations in their head, knee, shoulder, elbow, lower back, and other areas. Massage therapy can help alleviate this stress. It can also improve blood circulation and boost sleep quality. In a 2010 study, regular light massages were found to improve the mood of pregnant women while also reducing the incidence of leg and back pain.

Cautions

While massages are great for the benefits listed above, it is important to see a physiotherapist or other medical professionals get a full picture of your health status and health condition. Although massages help with pain alleviation, some important medical conditions or injuries that require you to exercise caution and seek professional help include; Cancer A bleeding disorder Osteoporosis Open wounds or burns Broken or fractured bones Other serious medical conditions Pregnant women or those suffering from health complications should see a physiotherapist first before jumping at massages. Physiotherapists are trained professionals who can recommend massage types, frequency, and duration. If you have yet to schedule an appointment with a physiotherapist, visit https://www.movement101.com.au.

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Wolli Creek NSW 2205

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