The Positive Effects Massage Therapy Has on Depression and Stress

Life is stressful, demanding, and difficult. At the same time, injuries and accumulated physical ailments can take a toll on our bodies; we often begin to see the repercussions of that as we grow older. We are often faced with challenges—personal, professional, and spiritual—that take our bodies and emotions through wild ups and downs. 

Major and chronic depression is a serious condition affects around 16. 2 million Americans and can have true health consequences if not treated or tended to. Every case is different and should be treated on a case by case basis, but massage therapy has seen some positive effects on people who are suffering from a bout of depression or persistent stress in their lives.

Both of these conditions can lead to tension in the muscles, poor diet, poor exercise regimens, and more; all of this contributes to one's overall state of health and wellness. Research even suggests that stress can be a cause of some medical conditions and illnesses. That’s why finding ways to mitigate stress and take care of our bodies is vital in the maintenance of our health.  

What is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy refers to the practice of manual movement of soft body tissue to enhance a person’s well-being. Soft body tissues include muscle, connective tissue, tendons, and ligaments. 

Some of the Benefits from Massage Therapy

While massage therapy is not a cure-all for any physical and mental illness or disorder, it has proven benefits across the board. Massages have been used in ancient cultures like China for more than 3,000 years.  Many ancient practitioners of massage therapy will argue that the method based on touch will help in the release of hormones and the creation of an emotional connection. Practitioners of the modern and contemporary study of massage therapy see some similar effects. Here are a few of the benefits:

• A 60-minute massage can lower cortisol—the hormone produced when stressed. 
• Serotonin production sees a boost after a massage and this can help with pain reduction. 
• Massage therapy helps individuals find clarity and relaxation. A massage therapy specializes in releasing tension in the muscles and encouraging the ease of tension in the tense parts of the body. 
• Encouraging the relaxation of muscles, tendons, and ligaments in areas that may be experiencing inflammation. 

According to the National Institute of Health and a study they conducted on massage therapy for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), the treatment was effective in various of the controlled groups involved in the study. The study showed that all groups had improved by the end of the treatment and maintained their gains after 26 weeks. The reduction of depression and anxiety was consistent and showed similar patterns. 

For Back Pain, Massage Therapy Can Be Effective 

Massage therapy can also be effective in reducing back pain and easing some of the tension builds up in patients with back problems. People that suffer from back pain can see a reduction of swelling and inflammation. 

Call a Trusted Clinic and Ease the Tension
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Whether you have tension due to stress, depression, or chronic back pain, massage therapy can be a great way to alleviate some of that tension in the body and mind. The release that patients see after a therapeutic massage can improve your overall health and help you face the day with confidence and strength. Call Southwest Chiropractic today and schedule an appointment. Find out how your muscles can work for you.