Frequently asked questions about massages

by

in

How does a massage work?

Massage helps stretch out muscle fibers that have gotten tight or short because of bad posture. It also loosens up tense muscles, which lets fresh oxygen flow into the muscles and helps get rid of waste through the bloodstream.Massage also wakes up the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the part of your body that helps you feel calm and relaxed. Plus, it makes your body release chemicals that make you feel happy and joyful.

What massage is best for managing stress?

The best type of massage to help you feel less stressed is one that works with the parasympathetic nervous system. This part of your body helps you calm down by relaxing your muscles, slowing down your heart rate and breathing, soothing your mind, and lowering the amount of adrenaline your body makes.A Swedish massage is a great choice because it uses gentle, slow movements that help your body relax. Any other massage technique that uses long and slow strokes can help, too.Here’s a helpful tip: before your massage, write down everything that’s worrying you or making your mind feel crowded on a piece of paper. Then, put the paper away, like in your bag or purse, and let yourself fully relax and enjoy the massage.

Can massage help with weight loss?

There are a lot of things that play a part in losing weight, but the two most important ones are exercise and eating healthy. A lymphatic drainage massage can help your body get rid of toxins, but it won’t make a big difference if you’re not also eating well and working out. Other types of massage can help you feel better in different ways, but they won’t get rid of fat.

Can massage help with neck pain?

Definitely! No matter what’s causing your neck pain, the muscles are going to be tight, filled with waste, and shortened. Massage helps loosen up the tightness, improves blood flow to get rid of waste, and stretches out the muscle fibers.

How can I massage my feet?

The best way to give your feet a massage is by using a soft therapy foam ball. This kind of ball is gentle on the soft tissue and bones of your feet. Harder balls, like lacrosse balls, can be too tough and uncomfortable.Here’s how to do it: put the therapy foam ball under the arch of one foot. Press down for 30 seconds, then let go. Next, move your foot side to side over the ball for another 30 seconds. After that, imagine a line going from each toe to your heel. Roll the ball over each line five times.The massage should feel good, not painful. If it hurts, adjust the ball around your foot until it feels better.

Can a massage pinch a nerve?

No, massage can’t pinch a nerve. Things like tight muscles or bones being out of place can pinch a nerve, but massage doesn’t do that. In fact, massage actually helps by loosening up tight muscles and can even relieve pressure on a pinched nerve.

Are massage chairs good for you?

Yes! But make sure you’re getting the massage from a licensed massage therapist who’s well trained. You can tell they know their stuff if they’ve taken extra classes for chair massage. Chair massage feels great on your neck and back, and the best part is you get to keep your clothes on.

Are massage guns good for you?

Yes! All massage guns are great tools for easing muscle tension and pain, loosening up the fascia, and boosting blood flow. Just be sure to use the gun on your muscles, not on your bones. It’s a good idea to check out an anatomy chart so you can see where the muscles connect and get the most out of your massage gun. I use mine on almost all of my clients, and they love it!

When should a massage not be allowed?

You shouldn’t get a massage if you have an open wound, a fever, a contagious sickness, a broken bone, or if it’s been less than 6 weeks since you had surgery.

Need further assistance?

Need help finding the answers you need? Contact me for more information and to schedule an appointment