In most countries, massage therapy is considered to be a part of complementary and alternative medicine, and isn’t thought of as a necessary part of treatment. However, the physical and mental benefits of massage therapy have been proven time and time again.
Studies conducted by top scientists have shown that massage therapy is be a helpful non-drug approach to reducing and managing pain. Studies have also investigated other aspects of massage therapy, exhibiting positive results in treating and preventing repetitive motion disorders and targeting sensory pathways to strengthen muscles and joints.
In some cases, massage therapy is also deemed medically necessary by a qualified physician, and can be eligible for insurance coverage. Let’s take a look at some health issues where massage therapy is classified as medically necessary:
Sciatica
The sciatic nerve is a bundle of several nerve roots that go all the way from the lower back to the back of the thighs and the lower leg and foot. Sciatica is a condition where the sciatic nerve is either pinched or irritated, causing considerable pain to the patient.
Massage therapy can alleviate sciatica by loosening the muscles, preventing irritation or pinching. And finally, the release of endorphins that massage therapy triggers provides relief from the throbbing pain or burning sensation associated with sciatica.
Rotator Cuff Injury
The rotator cuff is an important part of the shoulder joint, and is made up of muscles and tendons. It can be easily injured due to tightness of space within the shoulder joint and the repetitive motions the shoulder is subjected to. The most common reason for rotator cuff injuries is sports activities that involve high-velocity movements.
Massage therapy loosens the muscles and increases the blood flow, reducing the inflammation within the muscles and tendons. It also minimizes the formation of scar tissues by helping the repositioning of torn fibres, allowing for proper healing.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Issues
TMJ refers to two joints that connect the skull and the jawbone. Issues relating to TMJ have been known to affect a large number of people. Common causes include whiplash, chronic stress, postural issues, and Bruxism.
The symptoms indicating TMJ issues can range from chronic pain to muscle spasm around the jaw, head, and neck area. Massage therapy is often recommended to provide significant relief to these areas. It helps in relieving pain from sore muscles while restoring balance and improving the function of the muscles.
Contact Our Massage Therapy Experts In Toronto!
Sports & Exercise Medicine Institute is home to a team of leading doctors and massage therapists in Toronto. The sports medicine and physiotherapy clinic offers professional medical diagnoses and effective treatment options for debilitating illnesses, Repetitive strain injuries, sports injuries, concussions, and post-surgery traumas.
Our services include sports massage therapy, shockwave therapy, and non-surgical neck and shoulder pain treatments.
Contact us now to schedule an appointment!
