By: Coco Ang, PT
People have been enjoying massages for centuries. In fact, tales of its effectiveness dates back to the Egyptians and the medical texts of ancient China.
Today, massage therapists all over the world manipulate tissues to provide deep relaxation that help promote healing. With the skilful application of pressure, massage therapists help in the treatment of injuries.
Even though the popularity of massages is increasing by the day and its positives being advocated, there are still misconceptions about how they work. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths about massage therapies.
Myth 1: Massages Are The Same Wherever You may Go
That’s a fairly common misconception. There are different types of massages and each of them target different goals. For example, a Swedish massage uses long, gentle strokes with circular movements and kneading that help relax and energize. Sports massages are similar to Swedish massages and use the technique of kneading and vibrations but are designed as per the needs of athletes.
Deep tissue massages on the other hand use even slower and deeper strokes to the underlying layers of muscles and connective tissues to both prevent and recover from injuries and improve range of motion.
The type of massage offered varies from case to case and is often customized to the needs of the client.
Myth 2: Massages Are Only Good If You Want To Pamper Yourself!
This couldn’t be further from the truth. Regular massages can help relieve symptoms of stress and anxiety by helping the body relax. Massages can help the body heal from injuries and speed up rehabilitation.
In fact, some studies even indicate the effectiveness of massages in lowering and managing blood pressure.
Myth 3: Good Massages Should Hurt The Next Day, Otherwise They’re No Good!
While deep tissue massages may cause some people to feel a little bit sore the next day, it’s also normal to not experience any pain at all. Soreness is not the only indication of a good massage.
Myth 4: The Only Cure For A Migraine Is Lying Down In a Dark Room, Not A Massage
Evidence suggests that massage therapy is effective for treating headaches in general as well as for migraines. Stimulating certain pressure points in the neck, shoulders, head and face can help release stress and interrupt the pain signals being sent to the brain. This helps alleviate symptoms of headaches and migraines.
Myth 5: Don’t Interrupt The Therapist
Massages are not typically painful. You may experience some discomfort when the masseuse is trying to release a knot in the muscle tissue but if the pain persists, you should let the massage therapist know.
Looking for a massage therapist?
Sports & Exercise Medicine Institute clinics are greater Toronto area based sports medicine, physiotherapy and massage therapy clinics that offer a wide range of services such as sports medicine physicians, massage therapists, personal training services and more.
To learn more about us, get in touch with us by calling at 1-844-223-7364. Our services are offered in the greater Toronto area at Sheppard, St. Clair and Thornhill.
