In the last few years, there has been a rapid increase in spas, health clubs and facilities offering specialised massages. You are likely to find one near you – be it Thai, Balinese, remedial, deep tissue and so on. You no longer need to travel the distance to access them.
Massages are not just a leisurely activity. The positive physical and mental impacts of having massages are widely known, so more and more people are now using massage for medicinal purposes.
Medicinal massage therapy is highly effective for increasing mobility in the joints, blood circulation and lowering muscular tension and pain. If you have not previously undergone a medicinal massage treatment, read on to find out whether it is the appropriate course of treatment for you.
What is Medicinal Massage Therapy?
Medicinal massages are offered in tandem with corresponding medical treatments to support faster recovery. Much like massages in general, it involves applying pressure and stroking soft tissues across various parts of the body to relieve symptoms of orthopedic, cardiovascular and stress inducing conditions.
While it fosters relaxation and overall wellbeing, medicinal massages are result-oriented. The course of the treatment depends on the adversity of the health issues and is recommended by the therapist, such as the duration, technique and pressure.
For instance, in post-injury rehabilitation – massage therapy may be undertaken for a set period to help the patient recover mobility in the affected joint.
In integrative medicine, medicinal massages are becoming popular and are a much sought after treatment for pain and stress relief.
Medicinal massage therapists are trained to work with specialists and medical professionals to devise and deliver a rehabilitation plan.
Some of the health conditions commonly treated by medicinal massage therapists include:
- Anxiety, depression, sleep disorders
- Post-injury/operative recovery
- Sports/gym injuries
- Pain and nerve pain referral
- Digestive & gut issues
- Fibromyalgia
| Medicinal Massages | Leisure Massages |
|
|
Benefits of seeking Medicinal Massage Therapy
In addition to treating a wide range of health conditions, medicinal massage therapy has many underlying benefits. The patients often experience amplified physical and mental health outcomes towards the end of their treatment.
Using diverse techniques and varying pressure, medicinal massage therapists work towards activating different pressure points. Each pressure point serves a unique function, such as:
| Physical Health Benefits | Mental Health Benefits |
|
|
Are there any side effects to taking Medicinal Massages?
During or after the first few sessions, you may experience slight soreness – which is common. Medicinal massages therapists work the muscles similar to how it happens during a workout. Therefore, you may even experience tiredness and dizziness afterwards.
Contrary to popular opinion, massages don’t need to hurt in order to be effective. If the pain persists and you continue to feel uncomfortable as the treatment progresses, it’s important to inform your massage therapist.
Massage therapists are equipped to work with a wide variety of movements. Therefore, if your condition does not improve or worsens during the treatment – you should raise it with the therapist so they can try an alternative technique for your condition.
Overall, massage therapy is reliable and safe, whether for a heart condition or to improve your sleep – it is definitely worth trying.
Massage Therapy at Rural Northwest Health
At Rural Northwest Health in Horsham, we offer highly specialised massage care. Our therapist is professionally trained and experienced to work with you to achieve the desired health outcomes.
To book an appointment with our medical massage expert, contact us at 03) 5396 1285 or email intake@rnh.net.au. Please note, referral from the GP is required to request massage therapy at Rural Northwest Health.