Everyone needs effective ways to relax, unwind and manage stress levels. The health benefits of a massage have been widely accepted and embraced in Western cultures. Many people are realizing the profound health benefits of a Swedish massage. It has proven to have mental, emotional, and physical benefits that make a huge difference for people who need relief. In this blog, we’re going to delve into what Swedish massage is and what its various therapeutic benefits are.
What is a Swedish massage?
Swedish massage is a specific type of massage therapy that focuses on relaxation. The technique is carried out by a massage therapist who targets muscles through a series of techniques that include friction, gliding, strokes, and kneading. Swedish massage is also known as classical massage and is one of the most popular types of massage therapies throughout the world. Many other types of massage therapy have branched from this particular technique.
As you have probably guessed, this practice has its origins in Sweden. It was developed by a Swedish physician and athlete who merged Chinese medical massage techniques and sports medicine and came up with a unique treatment to address sore muscles, increase flexibility and improve overall health. Swedish massage techniques usually involve the use of oil or cream as a lubricant. Stretching is also part of the technique and helps elongate muscles.
Benefits of Swedish massage
Massage therapy is widely known as a technique that is beneficial to one’s health. Swedish massage is no different and offers a range of benefits that may have you scrambling to book an appointment with one of our massage therapists.
Swedish massage benefits include:
1. May reduce lower back pain
Lower back pain affects many people and can significantly interfere with everyday life. Whether your lower back pain is due to an injury or a medical condition, relief may be closer than you think. While more research is needed to make a solid claim that Swedish massage does reduce lower back pain, one study suggests that a Swedish massage was helpful in reducing lower back pain experienced by nurses. It is important to note that Swedish massage may not be the best solution for chronic lower back pain.
2. May treat neck pain
Got neck pain? Similar to lower back pain, Swedish massage may provide temporary relief from neck pain. To experience long-term relief, a patient is encouraged to book multiple sessions.
3. May treat shoulder pain
If you’re experiencing pain in your shoulder due to strenuous activity or other causes, having regular Swedish massage sessions may help relieve your pain short term. This may reduce your reliance on pain medication and allow you to be more comfortable.
4. May treat fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia can be debilitating and for those who suffer from the condition. If you are one of the many women with this condition, you know how important it is to find relief for your pain. A Swedish massage can help alleviate fibromyalgia pain and also treat anxiety and depression that may accompany the condition.
5. May treat headaches
Millions of people suffer from headaches that interrupt their daily activities and make even the most basic tasks difficult. For people who experience migraines, it’s not uncommon to spend hours in a dark, quiet room. While the effect of a Swedish massage on headaches has not been studied extensively yet, some research suggests that a weekly Swedish massage may reduce the intensity and occurrence of migraines.
6. May treat anxiety
As mentioned above, massage therapy has a positive effect on your overall health and can help manage stress. In addition to stress, anxiety is another condition that can be alleviated through regular Swedish massages. However, if you suffer from anxiety, we encourage you to speak to your doctor about treatment options that can be used in tandem with your Swedish massage sessions.
7. May lower blood pressure
There are a number of factors that can cause an individual to develop high blood pressure. There are various treatment options to help keep your blood pressure under control. Studies on Swedish massages show that they may help decrease blood pressure caused by anxiety.
8. May improve sleep quality
Getting a good night’s sleep can be difficult, with many people having to rely on medication to help them go to sleep. Since Swedish massage helps you relax, regular sessions may promote a better sleep pattern and reduce restlessness.
9. May treat PMS
PMS symptoms can range from mild to severe. Whether you experience minor discomfort or crippling pain during your cycle, having regular Swedish massages may ease the pain and provide a more comfortable period.
10. May treat symptoms of depression
With massage therapy proving to be an excellent way to promote relaxation and elevate your mood, a Swedish massage may be effective in improving your symptoms of depression.
11. May provide cancer symptom relief
Cancer treatment is often effective in eliminating cancerous cells from the body but can bring a lot of pain and weakness throughout the body. Using massage therapy to address the pain and fatigue caused by cancer treatment has shown to be helpful in many patients.
12. May improve circulation
One of the reasons why some experts recommend massages during pregnancy is because massages improve circulation in the body, which benefits both mom and baby.
Who benefits from Swedish massage?
Swedish massage may be beneficial to anyone looking for short-term pain relief and relaxation. It is understood to be a safe way to alleviate pain and discomfort in combination with other pain management strategies.
So if you are dealing with any type of pain, fatigue or anxiety, a Swedish massage can help ease your pain and discomfort.
Can you get a Swedish massage if you’re pregnant?
Generally, massages are safe for women who are pregnant. However, it’s important that you seek medical advice from your doctor prior to scheduling a Swedish massage.
Be sure to hire a qualified massage therapist because there are certain precautions that must be taken to ensure the safety of you and your baby.
Contact Us
Don’t allow pain to interfere with your daily activities. Get a Swedish massage to help you relax and address pain. Newmarket Health & Wellness Centre is here to help you improve your health physically, mentally, and emotionally. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about the scientific benefits of massages. Call our office to schedule your next Swedish massage.