Which is the Best Massage for Lupus and Why?

A journey with lupus disease is very challenging as it accompanies various physical and emotional symptoms. It’s said that there is no permanent cure for lupus. That’s why people suffering from lupus look for alternative therapies to manage its symptoms and improve their quality of life.

One of those therapies is massage therapy. Today, it has gained huge popularity among lupus patients. But, the thing is that all massage therapies are not suitable for managing lupus symptoms.

In this blog, we will discuss the best massage for lupus and its impacts the lupus symptoms.

A brief about Lupus Disease 

As a complex autoimmune disease, lupus affects multiple body organs and systems. The immune system becomes more active in lupus patients. And this overactive immune system attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation, pain, and other serious symptoms.

Every lupus patient suffers from different symptoms. Some of the common symptoms are:

  • Fatigue
  • Joint pain
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Skin rashes
  • Cognitive difficulties

The Benefits of Massage Therapy for Lupus

Massage therapy offers a holistic approach to lupus symptom management. It provides physical as well as psychological benefits.

Pain relief- Lupus causes muscle and joint pain. Massage therapy promotes relaxation and reduces tension in the affected areas, alleviating pain effectively.

Improved circulation: Lupus impairs blood flow, leading to cold extremities and increased fatigue. Massage therapy enhances circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and removing toxins.

Stress reduction: Living with a chronic illness like lupus can be stressful. Massage therapy induces relaxation, which reduces anxiety and depression. The therapy regulates cortisol, the stress hormones, impacting positively the immune system.

Enhanced flexibility and range of motion: Lupus causes stiffness and limited mobility in joints. Specific massage techniques, target these areas, promoting flexibility and restoring range of motion.

Improved sleep quality: Many individuals with lupus experience sleep disturbances. Massage therapy promotes relaxation and helps regulate sleep patterns, leading to improved quality of sleep.

The Best Massage for Lupus

Swedish massage: This gentle, full-body massage technique involves long, flowing strokes, kneading, and circular movements. It promotes relaxation, reduces muscle tension, and improves circulation.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage: This specialized massage technique focuses on stimulating the lymphatic system, which eliminates toxins and waste from the body. It reduces swelling and edema, common symptoms in lupus patients.

Myofascial Release: This technique targets the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs. Myofascial release releases tension and restrictions in the fascia, improving flexibility and reducing pain.

Craniosacral Therapy:  The focus of non-invasive craniosacral therapy is the craniosacral system. This therapy manages symptoms like headaches and leads to complete relaxation.

Reflexology: Reflexology involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears that correspond to different organs and systems in the body. This massage technique alleviates pain, improves circulation, and leads to proper well-being.

Conclusion

Each person’s experience with lupus is unique, and a customized approach to massage therapy is essential for maximizing its benefits. With the right technique and a skilled therapist, massage can become a valuable tool in managing the challenges posed by lupus, offering relaxation, pain relief, and improved well-being.

Understanding Sciatica and the Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage Therapy

Throughout the world, millions of people suffer from sciatica. It is characterized by pain that travels down the legs from the lower back, frequently making daily activities uncomfortable and challenging. While various sciatica therapies are available, deep-tissue massage therapy is becoming a popular substitute that can significantly reduce pain and other symptoms.

Describe sciatica

The sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the feet, is the body’s longest nerve. Sciatica may develop from irritation or compression of this nerve. Numerous conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and even pregnancy, might contribute to the illness. Pain radiating from the lower back is a classic symptom of sciatica.

Deep Tissue Massage Therapy: An Overview

The deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue are the focus of deep tissue massage therapy, which uses forceful pressure. In order to exert pressure on particular body parts, the massage therapist will utilize a range of methods, such as kneading, stripping, and friction. Adhesions and scar tissue, which can significantly contribute to discomfort and inflammation, can be broken apart with the use of this pressure.

What Deep Tissue Massage Therapy for Sciatica Can Do for You

Deep tissue massage can assist to relieve pain by lowering inflammation and boosting blood flow to the injured area. Targeting the exact muscles and tissues that are contributing to the discomfort, the massage therapist will strive to relieve tension and promote healing.

Increased Mobility: The muscles and tissues that surround the sciatic nerve can become tight and inflamed, limiting movement and making it difficult to perform daily chores. Deep tissue massage can help these tissues become more flexible and expand their range of motion.

Reduced Stress: People with sciatica can feel anxious and irritable as a result of their condition. Deep tissue massage can help patients unwind and reduce tension, which helps them better manage their symptoms and improves their general well-being.

Better Sleep: Since sciatica discomfort can disturb sleep, it may be difficult to get a decent night’s sleep. Deep tissue massage can help with relaxation and pain alleviation, allowing people to get the sound sleep they need.

Non-invasive: Deep tissue massage therapy provides an alternative to medication and surgery for treating some conditions. People that favor all-natural, non-invasive therapies may find this to be an especially tempting option.

Long-Term Relief: By addressing the underlying reasons for the illness, deep tissue massage treatment can provide long-term relief from sciatica pain whereas medications can only offer short-term relief. The likelihood of sciatica flare-ups can be decreased and general health can be enhanced with regular massage therapy sessions.

Customized Therapy: Deep tissue massage therapy can be customized to meet the individual needs of each client. The massage therapist will work with the client to develop a treatment plan that addresses both their particular symptoms and goals in order to give the best possible therapy.

Conclusion

Deep tissue massage for sciatica is a safe and effective way to alleviate sciatica pain. Deep tissue massage, which concentrates on the deeper levels of muscle and connective tissue, can considerably reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, it can improve mobility, reduce stress, and promote calm. Whether used alone or in conjunction with other treatments, deep tissue massage can help patients with sciatica better control their symptoms and improve the quality of their lives.

Things You Should Know Before Going for Couples’ Massage

Although you may have only witnessed couples getting massages on TV shows, the truth is that couples’ massages are a commonly sought-after wellness activity. These types of massages, often referred to as romantic couple massages, involve the use of oils and aromatherapy to create a serene and intimate atmosphere.

The main benefit of couple massages is that they enhance affection and comfort levels between partners. Furthermore, couples’ massages are not only advantageous for your relationship, but they are also a great way to introduce yourself to the world of massages, particularly if you are a first-timer and would prefer the company of your significant other.

If you are planning to schedule an appointment for a couples’ massage in Philadelphia, keep some important things in your mind.

Know the tips to prepare for a couples’ massage 

  • Schedule your massage in the evening after high-endurance activities, like a long day at work or an intense workout, to help you unwind and destress. This will be the perfect end to a high-stress day and you’ll likely find that you won’t have the desire to do anything physically strenuous after your session.
  • Shower beforehand for a clean and comfortable experience for you and your masseuse. This also helps the massage lotion to be better absorbed by your skin. Basic hygiene is important and you don’t want to make this an uncomfortable experience for yourself or your masseuse.
  • Eat a light meal before your massage, and avoid heavy or rich foods that may make you feel uncomfortable during the massage. It’s important to give your stomach time to digest any food before lying on the massage table. If you can’t calm those hunger pangs, opt for a light salad with some protein.
  • Leave your phone behind to fully disconnect and enjoy the experience. The point of getting a massage is to relax, unwind, and enjoy your time away from the hustle and bustle of your work life. This is your time to focus on yourself and your partner.
  • Try to be in a good mood and avoid discussing any sensitive topics that may lead to tension between you and your partner. This is a treat for both of you and bickering before the actual massage will take away from the positive experience. The tension between couples makes for tense muscles. Leave the drama at home and enjoy the experience.

Know the ways to make the most out of the couples’ massage 

  • Before booking a couples’ massage as a surprise for your partner, make sure they’re comfortable with the idea. Not everyone is familiar with this type of massage, so it’s important to check if they’re willing to proceed.
  • Discuss with your partner if you want to talk during the massage, or if you prefer to just relax and enjoy the experience. Knowing what to expect can help you both fully immerse at the moment.
  • Focus on your massage and let yourself fully benefit from the health and well-being benefits it provides. Don’t worry about anything else and just allow yourself to unwind and rejuvenate.
  • Consider adding extra treatments to your package to enhance the overall experience. Maximize your time at the spa and make the most out of your relaxing couple massage package.

Knowing and considering these things will help enjoy a couples massage in Philadelphia to the fullest.

The Benefits of Massage as a Complementary and Alternative Medicine

For many years, people have used massage therapy as a complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatment for a variety of physical and mental health issues. It has grown in popularity and acceptance as a non-invasive, all-natural treatment option for a variety of health problems in recent years.

Justin Shelley is a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) in Philadelphia who helps you to improve overall health and well-being. This blog post will discuss the benefits of massage in South Philadelphia as a supplemental and alternative therapy.

1.    Reduces Cortisol Levels and Promotes Relaxation

The potential of massage therapy to encourage relaxation and lower stress levels is one of its greatest benefits. Massage therapy allows muscles to relax and release tension while also reducing cortisol levels in the body, which is a stress hormone. This can help in reducing anxiety levels and enhance general well-being.

2.    Promoting Healing and Reducing Inflammation

Enhancing blood flow and circulation throughout the body is another benefit of massage therapy. As a result, healing and the risk of injury can be promoted and the cells and tissues can get nutrients and oxygen. People who suffer from chronic ailments like arthritis can find it helpful when their circulation is improved because it also helps in reducing swelling and irritation.

3.    Improve Sleep Quality

Massage therapy can support healthier sleep habits and increase the quality of your sleep. This is mainly because of its capacity to encourage relaxation and decrease stress levels. For people with chronic pain conditions, massage treatment can help with pain relief and discomfort reduction.

4.    Easing Pain and Discomfort from Medical Conditions

Many different medical conditions, such as chronic pain, headaches, and fibromyalgia, are known to cause pain and discomfort. Massage therapy is useful in easing these symptoms. Massage helps boost blood flow and circulation to the wounded areas, which helps in reducing pain and promoting healing. Additionally, it can help in easing muscle stiffness and pain by enhancing the range of motion and reducing muscle tension.

5.    Strengthen Your Body’s Defenses

The immune system can benefit from massage therapy as well, which can enhance general health and well-being. White blood cells, which are in charge of fighting off infection and sickness, have been proven to function more actively after regular massage therapy sessions. This can reduce the possibility of getting sick and improve the rate of recovery.

6.    Improve Your Physical and Mental Health

Massage therapy can support a person’s general health and sense of well-being. Regular massage therapy sessions can relieve stress, boost immunity, enhance circulation, and help people relax and deal with pain. This can end up in better overall well-being, including happiness and physical and mental health.

A variety of medical issues can benefit greatly from massage therapy as a complementary and alternative medicine. Massage in South Philadelphia is a beneficial therapy choice for anyone looking for a natural and simple approach to healthcare. Make an appointment with Justin Shelly right now to start enjoying the rewards of life with better posture and less pain.

Fibromyalgia and Massage: The Correct Touch

Every year, more than 3 million Americans suffer with fibromyalgia (FM). Among other symptoms, this chronic disorder produces widespread muscle soreness and heightened sensitivity to stimuli, which frequently result in pain and make it difficult to fall asleep. There are many different forms of treatment, but some recent study suggests that massage therapy may be able to ease some of the discomfort.

Yet, because FM is a complicated disorder, working with FM clients is similar to dealing with clients who have other chronic or pre-existing health issues in that you need to have a deeper understanding of how the condition affects the client and when massage therapy can be beneficial. In the sections that follow, you’ll learn more about FM, what the most recent research has to say about it, and how massage therapy can help patients cope with some of its symptoms.

What is Fibromyalgia?

A illness called fibromyalgia is characterised by widespread and painful muscles. Fatigue, tension headaches, issues with cognition, and irritable bowel syndrome are a few more symptoms that are frequently linked to FM.

Curiously, despite the fact that one of the disorder’s main symptoms is muscle pain, more research on FM is beginning to point towards the fact that it is essentially a central nervous system disorder. More specifically, contrary to what was previously assumed, evidence now supports the notion that FM is a disease of the pathways in the central nervous system that process pain. 1 Stephen Perle, professor of clinical sciences at Bridgeport University, said research have demonstrated a link between stressors and FM. For instance, fMRI research has revealed that individuals with FM have brain activity in regions that are typically exclusively affected by painful stimuli.

As a result, central nervous system involvement may account for why FM patients are frequently hypersensitive to stimuli other than only mechanical pressure or touch. Further details are offered by Dr. Michael Schneider, an Associate Professor at the University of Pittsburgh and the creator of numerous studies on FM: The typical fibromyalgia sufferer, according to him, “simply isn’t sensitive to touch and can’t succumb to mechanical pressure.” “They don’t take heat and cold very well, are sensitive to light and sound, [may have] various chemical sensitivities, and multiple food allergies.”

Who Develops Fibromyalgia?

It is more convoluted than that, but the short answer is that women are significantly more likely than males to acquire fibromyalgia. The risk that someone may get FM is unknown, however genetics and personal trauma appear to be associated factors. The study of genetics is rather simple. Typically, FM runs in families.

But trauma is a little more complicated. Although one does not necessarily lead to the other, there appears to be a connection between FM and post-traumatic stress disorder. An exceptionally high prevalence of prior mental, physical, and/or sexual trauma was linked to the beginning of FM symptoms, according to a 2001 study including 600 FM patients. 2 The connection between personal trauma and FM may be that trauma frequently leads a person’s limbic system to go into overdrive, leading to the central nervous system hypersensitivity, according to Schneider’s evaluation of the FM study literature. 1 While working with individuals who have FM, keep in mind that not everyone has suffered trauma, but you should be prepared for it. “There’s a high association with trauma, and people need to be aware of that when they’re treating these patients,” says Schneider.

Treatment for Fibromyalgia

As there is no single medication or therapy that may completely cure fibromyalgia or even alleviate all of its symptoms, many FM sufferers choose a variety of strategies to manage their condition. You should conduct a comprehensive intake and understand how any medications they are taking may effect the massage therapy session because the majority of people will probably be taking medication that has been given by their primary care physician. Keep in mind that these clients’ ability to better manage the main FM symptoms depends on them practising self-care. Focus instead on how massage therapy can benefit them, such how it can help them sleep better or reduce stress.

Some patients might also practise acupuncture, yoga, or other complementary therapies in addition to massage treatment. Schneider observes significant advantages from combining conventional and unconventional therapies. “A collaborative approach is better for treating these folks,” he claims.

Massage Therapy and Fibromyalgia

More and more studies are demonstrating that massage therapy—out of all the alternative therapies available—really helps people with a variety of medical issues, including fibromyalgia. A 2011 study found that massage therapy decreased FM patients’ sensitivity to pain at tender spots while also reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality. 3 Another 2014 study that systematically examined nine prior studies on massage treatment and FM revealed that it immediately helped patients with the symptoms of pain, anxiety, and despair. 4

The same study found that massage therapy works best when applied to soft and connective tissues because doing so increases muscular flexibility and modifies local blood and lymph circulation. 4

Myofascial release has been demonstrated to be moderately useful, but there isn’t an one approach that is more effective with FM than others. 5 According to Rhode Island-based massage therapist Joseph Swinski, who frequently works with clients who have chronic disorders like FM, “to new massage therapists who would like to work with FM clients, I would urge them to load their proverbial tool box with as many modalities as they can. “There is no one solution that works for all when working with the FM population.”

It will be crucial for many customers to apply the proper amount of pressure, thus it’s crucial to communicate with the client effectively before and during the session and make adjustments as needed. Keep in mind that these clients probably won’t be able to handle deep pressure. “If they’re hypersensitive, the idea is that you’re going to have to go really light with them and kind of coddle that client,” says Schneider. This concept applies to every element of the massage treatment. He continues, “Talk to them in a quieter voice; that person’s going to adore the dark room with some great calming music.”

Flexibility is also a key ingredient to success when working with people with FM. “The most important thing I could hope to impress on a new massage therapist working with a client with FM is to be patient, not in a hurry and as observant as possible during the actual session,” says Erika Crisafulli, a massage therapist with the Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital in Fort Worth. “Be compassionate. We all know what it is like to deal with physical ailments that we cannot get a hold of on our own.” Crisafulli knows this better than most, as she herself has had to deal with symptoms of FM. “Trying to control the symptoms so you can still live a full life is challenging, but not impossible if you are willing to help yourself,” she says. “It is so important to practice what you preach. If I don’t take care of myself, how in the world can I take care of my clients, something I love to do so much?”

After a massage treatment appointment, it’s a good idea to follow up with a client; this may require waiting a few days. After your first massage, you might need to adjust your strategy, advises Swinski. “I get in touch with my clients as a result following the massage. I reassure them that we can try different strategies if the outcomes are not what we had hoped for on their next appointment. You should remember that clients with FM will have various needs. Listen carefully and be prepared to modify the massage therapy session as necessary because what works for one person may not work for another.

Despite the complexity of FM, research indicates there are numerous ways massage therapy might make patients feel better. Massage treatment is demonstrating genuine potential in assisting people in better managing FM symptoms, from improved sleep to decreased stress.

Related: An Evidence-Based Guide to Fibromyalgia for Massage Therapists | 2 Credit Hours

Does Your Client Really Have Fibromyalgia?  

The process of receiving a fibromyalgia diagnosis can be drawn out and challenging for many people. Yet, overdiagnosis is a growing issue because FM is a complicated, poorly understood disorder.

Dr. Michael Schneider, an associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh and the author of numerous studies on FM, observed that the condition was frequently used as a blanket diagnosis in a paper titled Differential Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia Syndrome published in 2006. The study finds that there is an issue with the existing conceptual paradigm of FM, which views all individuals with unexplained broad pain as belonging to one grandiose illness.

You can run against customers who were possibly misdiagnosed due to the complexity of FM diagnosis. What does that entail for massage therapists who treat FM patients? The fact is that massage therapy can be successful even when a client has received a wrong diagnosis, but massage therapists must allow the client take the initiative.

The question then becomes: Is the massage beneficial or not? If that client comments, “Oh, I feel terrific after that first massage,” when they return the following week for another treatment. Wonderful, let’s do that again,” Schneider adds. What’s the difference if the patient expects to receive temporary relief, and they do? They continue to receive aid.

References

1. Michael J. Schneider, DC, PhD, David M. Brady, ND, DC, and Stephen M. Perle, DC, MS (2006) Differential diagnosis of fibromyalgia syndrome: Proposal of a model and algorithm for patients presenting with the primary symptom of chronic widespread pain. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2006 Jul–Aug;29(6):493-501.

2. Walen HR, Oliver K, Groessl E, Cronan TA, Rodriguez VM. Traumatic events, health outcomes, and health care use in patients with fibromyalgia. J Musculoskelet Pain 2001;9: 19–38

3. Castro-Sánchez, A.M., Matarán-Peñarrocha, G.A., Granero-Molina, J., Aguilera-Manrique, G., Quesada-Rubio, J.M., Moreno-Lorenzo, C. (2011). Benefits of massage-myofascial release therapy on pain, anxiety, quality of sleep, depression, and quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011:561753.

4. Li Y.H., Wang F.Y., Feng C.Q., Yang X.F., Sun Y.H. (2014) Massage therapy for fibromyalgia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. 2014 Feb 20;9(2):e89304. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0089304. eCollection 2014.

5. Castro-Sánchez, A.M., Matarán-Peñarrocha, G.A., Granero-Molina, J., Aguilera-Manrique, G., Quesada-Rubio, J.M., Moreno-Lorenzo, C. (2011). Benefits of massage-myofascial release therapy on pain, anxiety, quality of sleep, depression, and quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011:561753.

How Massage Can Ease Sciatic Pain

There are millions of individuals suffering from sciatica worldwide. As the biggest nerve in the body, the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated, it causes this condition. The hips, lower back, legs, and feet can feel pain, numbness, and tingling due to this medical condition.

Although there are many sciatica treatments accessible, massage therapy is one of the best ways to treat the signs and symptoms of the condition. Justin Shelley, a trained, licensed, and certified massage therapist in Philadelphia, offers world-class sciatic nerve massage that will significantly benefit your sciatica. In this blog, we’ll discuss how massage can reduce sciatic pain.

How It Works

The goal of massage therapy is to encourage relaxation and relieve tension by manipulating the body’s muscles and soft tissues. For thousands of years, this method has been used to address a range of ailments, including sciatica. By focusing on the muscles and tissues that surround the sciatic nerve massage can help to reduce the pain caused by sciatica. The following is how it works:

1. Targets Tension in Surrounding Muscles:

Sciatica pain is commonly caused by tight muscles around the sciatic nerve. Massage therapy helps reduce this tension by providing pressure to the affected area. By releasing the knots and tightness in these muscles, massage can help to lessen pressure on the sciatic nerve and thus decrease discomfort.

2. Encouraging Endorphin Release:

Natural painkillers called endorphins are created by the body. Sciatica pain can be reduced by massage therapy, which can encourage the release of these feel-good chemicals.

3. Relaxing the Mind and Body:

Stress can make sciatica symptoms worse because anxiety and tension make muscles tighter and exacerbate pain. Relaxation and stress reduction are two benefits of massage treatment that can help with sciatica symptoms.

4. Enhancing Blood Flow:

Massage therapy can also help to reduce pain and promote healing by increasing blood flow to the affected region. The pain and suffering related to sciatica can be reduced by increased circulation by helping to flush out any toxins or waste products that can be contributing to it.

5. Correcting Posture:

When the sciatic nerve is under more pressure due to poor posture, symptoms of sciatica can increase. Massage treatment can improve posture by releasing the muscles that lead to poor alignment. By assisting with proper posture, massage therapy reduces pressure on the sciatic nerve and the associated pain.

Conclusion

Massage therapy is an efficient way to treat sciatica. Finding a massage therapist who is knowledgeable, skilled, and prepared to handle sciatica sufferers is essential. A therapist with knowledge of the condition, Justin Shelley can create a therapy strategy specific to your needs and help you get the relief you need. Consider including massage therapy in the treatment plan for your sciatica and make an appointment with Justin Shelley to improve your overall quality of life.

5 Compelling Reasons to Book a Couple’s Massage in Philadelphia

If you are planning a relaxing getaway with your spouse or friend in Philadelphia, consider booking couples massage to enjoy peace of mind and relaxation. A massage therapy session can help you and your massage partner unwind and make the most of your break or vacation. These days, a lot of couples and friends book a couples massage for a special experience. Couples’ massages in Philadelphia are highly recommended as they provide an opportunity to spend quality time together while getting relief from physical tension and mental stress.

Here are five reasons why you should choose to get a couples massage:

  1. You Are Celebrating a Special Occasion.

Consider celebrating a special occasion, such as an anniversary or birthday, with a couples massage in Philadelphia. This unique experience provides you and your partner or friend an opportunity to relax and bond, leaving you refreshed and ready to enjoy the rest of your planned activities.

  1. You Want to Give a Pleasant and Fun Surprise to Your Partner or Friend.

A couples massage can be a wonderful surprise gift for a special occasion or simply to show your partner how much you care. Planning this spa experience is always worthwhile, as it allows you to enjoy the many physical and mental benefits of massage therapy together. So, surprise your loved one and treat yourselves to a relaxing day with a couple’s massage.

  1. You and Your Partner Want to Try Something New and Enjoyable.

Discovering new experiences with your partner can be exciting, whether you’re exploring local attractions or planning a trip to Philadelphia. Trying a couples massage for the first time can be a great way to share a relaxing and rejuvenating experience together. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, you might want to consider booking a couple’s massage with a licensed massage therapist in Philadelphia.

  1. You and Your Spouse Want to Find an Escape from Daily Life.

You don’t necessarily need a specific reason to book a couples massage. It can be a great way to spend quality time together and escape external distractions. A massage experience like this promotes relaxation and positivity, which can help you both achieve a stress-free and contented state of mind.

  1. You and Your Friend or Partner Want to take a Break from Vacation Fatigue.

If you are traveling with your friend or spouse in Philadelphia, it’s easy for your itinerary to become overwhelming with all the exciting activities planned. Taking the time to relax is essential. You can enjoy a couples massage either at your hotel or by scheduling an appointment with a licensed massage therapist at a massage center, which allows you to take a break from your vacation and spend some peaceful time together.

Most people think that couples’ massage is only for romantic partners. However, this is not true. Couples’ massage is for all those who want to relax and de-stress with someone they care about. A massage partner could be your family, friend, or even colleague. So, if you wish to relax for a while and enjoy some time with someone you love or care about, book an appointment for couples massage in Philadelphia.

How Does Trigger Point Massage Therapy Help in Treating Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that causes widespread pain, tenderness, and fatigue throughout the body. Today, a large number of people are suffering from fibromyalgia.

The exact reason for the cause of fibromyalgia is not yet fully understood, but experts say that it’s related to the way the brain and nervous system process pain signals. The symptoms are widespread pain, tenderness, fatigue, sleep disturbance, cognitive difficulties, headaches, and irritable bowel syndrome.

As there is no cure for fibromyalgia, a combination of treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes is prescribed to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. For physical therapy, doctors commonly prescribe trigger point massage therapy. It works best in managing fibromyalgia symptoms.

In this post, we will discuss how trigger point massage therapy works for fibromyalgia. But, before that, let’s understand what trigger point massage therapy is.

About trigger point massage therapy 

Trigger points are areas of muscles that cause pain and discomfort in other parts of the body. These are often tender to the touch and feel like knots or hard spots in the muscles. These points are caused by a variety of factors, such as poor posture, repetitive motion, overuse, and injury.

Trigger point massage therapy releases tension in these trigger points and promotes healing throughout the body. The massage therapist locates the trigger points in the body and applies pressure to them using various techniques.

Effect of trigger point massage therapy on fibromyalgia

Releases tension in trigger points

By applying pressure on the trigger points during trigger point massage therapy, the therapist releases the tension. This relieves pain and promote relaxation.

Promotes relaxation– Anxiety and stress caused due to fibromyalgia exacerbate pain symptoms. By reducing muscle tension and stimulating the release of endorphins, trigger point massage therapy promotes relaxation. This reduces anxiety and promotes a sense of well-being.

Improves circulation- By promoting blood flow to the affected muscles, trigger point massage therapy improves circulation. The increased circulation of the blood reduces inflammation and promotes healing in the affected areas.

Increases range of motion– The stiffness and limited range of motion caused by fibromyalgia in affected areas lead to serious problems. The trigger point massage therapist improves the range of motion by releasing tension in the affected muscles and promoting relaxation.

Trigger point massage therapy for fibromyalgia 

Trigger point massage therapy is a supportive treatment for fibromyalgia, but it is very beneficial. It enhances the overall result of the fibromyalgia treatment. Most importantly, massage therapy comes with no side effects if all the precautions are followed before and after the session. If you are ready, you will have a massage therapy session and get relief from the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

To get trigger point massage therapy in Philadelphia, come to Justin Shelly. He is a licensed massage therapist. With his various massage techniques, he will help you recover from fibromyalgia soon.

Things You Shouldn’t Believe About Massage Therapy

Just like other services, massage therapy service has some misconceptions prevailing in the industry. And unfortunately, many people believe them and don’t take advantage of massage therapy.

Massage therapies are good for you. Not only do they relax you but treat many of your health problems. Sometimes, massage therapy improves the result of the treatment you are currently undergoing. You feel better as the pain and difficulties associated with the treatment reduce.

Massage is beneficial, so don’t believe the misconceptions. In this post, we will discuss common misconceptions that people have regarding massage therapy.

Misconception 1:

All massage types are the same 

This can never be true. If this is true, then no massage therapist has to spend years learning techniques. They can learn a method and apply it to all their clients. Some of the massage types are Swedish, sports, deep tissue and refresh therapeutic massage.

Just like their names, their techniques and effects are different. For example, a therapist applies a firmer amount of pressure using slower movements in a deep tissue massage but a light to medium amount of pressure in a Swedish massage.

Misconception 2:

Massage therapy is only for pampering

Massage therapy is for pampering but not only for pampering. Other than self-care, massage therapy treats multiple health conditions. For many people, massage is a part of their daily routine as consistency does wonders for health and wellness.

Massage reduces stress by releasing “feel-good” hormones, and helps people with severe headaches and migraines by targeting specific trigger points in the head and neck and others.

Misconceptions 3:

Body should pain the next day 

The effect of massage varies from a person to person. You might not feel the same as your friend after the massage. Some people feel soreness the day after a massage, especially if it is a deep-tissue massage. And some people don’t feel anything.

It’s said that any pain afterward is a good sign. It means the massage is working and it’s beneficial. But, the fact is that pain after the massage signifies nothing. Even if there is no soreness or pain, the massage is effective.

Misconception 4:

Relief from massage is short term 

Massage therapy provides instant as well as long-term relief. You might feel the impact of a massage for days. Sometimes, it’s for the entire life if you take the recommended number of sessions. Everything depends on your objective to take massage therapy.

The repeated sessions of massage therapy train the muscles in the body, keeping them flexible, strong, and pain-free over time. Massage tells the muscles to feel more relaxed and stretched out, keeping them in a relaxed state for longer periods.

Massage is related to your health. So, you shouldn’t take any step without equipping yourself with accurate information. If you have any doubts, ask professionals and not any random person. Also, you shouldn’t have incomplete information. This is more dangerous than knowing nothing.

 

Deep Tissue vs. Lomi Lomi Massage: Which Massage Is Better for Me?

When it comes to massage, it usually depends on what you expect from the massage. People get massages for a variety of reasons, such as they have pain, they want to de-stress, they feel knots in their back, they wish to feel relaxed and calm, they have an injury, etc. To-be mothers and who have delivered their babies also get massages to sleep better, feel a sense of wellness, relax muscles, increase circulation, and enjoy many more benefits. In many cases, people can choose the type of massage they wish; there is no restriction. In other words, it is your choice.

While both deep tissue massage and lomi lomi massage are good, they are different from each in various ways. However, if you need to choose one of them, you might want to know how they are different and what benefits they offer to the massage recipient. Let’s find out.

What is Deep Tissue Massage?

Deep tissue massage involves the use of deep sustained pressure using slow, deep strokes to target your inner muscles and connective tissues. This massage is mainly used to treat musculoskeletal issues, such as back pain, shoulder pain, strains, and even sports injuries. This massage promotes quicker healing by improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation.

Benefits of Deep Massage Tissue

  • Offers relaxation
  • Treats muscle pain
  • Improves stiffness
  • Helps unwind mentally
  • Reduces chronic low back pain
  • Promotes recovery from sports injuries
  • Treats sciatica, tennis elbow, and plantar fasciitis
  • Helps with fibromyalgia
  • Regulate blood pressure

What is Lomi Lomi Massage?

Lomi Lomi massage involves the combination of breathing and free-form instinctive techniques to open energy pathways, release tension, and remove blockages. During lomi lomi massage, your entire body is massaged with long, rhythmic, and sweeping strokes similar to the motion of waves. Different parts of the body are massaged at the same time. It is also called Hawaiian Full Body Lomi Lomi Massage.

Benefits of Lomi Lomi Massage

  • Improve circulation
  • Improve immune response
  • Increase range of motion and flexibility
  • Release the blocked energy
  • Muscle relaxation
  • Improve posture
  • Faster healing
  • Regulate blood pressure

Lomi Lomi Massage or Deep Tissue Massage: Which one should I get?

If you are suffering from chronic pain, sports injury, or other musculoskeletal pain, then deep tissue massage is the best option for you. If you are looking for a way to feel relaxed and calm, lomi lomi massage is a good option for you. However, in the latter case, you can also choose deep tissue massage because it also helps you unwind and feel relaxed.

If you are still feeling confused about which massage is best for you, get in touch with Justin Shelley – a Licensed Massage Therapist in Philadelphia. He specializes in a wide range of massages, including lomi lomi and deep tissue massage and offers massages to people of all ages and genders with a variety of issues. For massage consultation, call now.

 

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