Benefits of massage
Massage is generally considered part of complementary and alternative medicine. It's increasingly being offered along with standard treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations.
Studies of the benefits of massage demonstrate that it is an effective treatment for reducing stress, pain and muscle tension.
While more research is needed to confirm the benefits of massage, some studies have found massage may also be helpful for:
Anxiety
Digestive disorders
Fibromyalgia
Headaches
Insomnia related to stress
Myofascial pain syndrome
Soft tissue strains or injuries
Sports injuries
Temporomandibular joint pain
Beyond the benefits for specific conditions or diseases, some people enjoy massage because it often produces feelings of caring, comfort and connection.
Despite its benefits, massage isn't meant as a replacement for regular medical care. Let your doctor know you're trying massage and be sure to follow any standard treatment plans you have.
What is massage?
Massage is a general term for pressing, rubbing and manipulating your skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Massage may range from light stroking to deep pressure. There are many different types of massage, including these common types:
- Swedish massage. This is a gentle form of massage that uses long strokes, kneading, deep circular movements, vibration and tapping to help relax and energize you.
- Deep massage. This massage technique uses slower, more-forceful strokes to target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, commonly to help with muscle damage from injuries.
- Sports massage. This is similar to Swedish massage, but it's geared toward people involved in sport activities to help prevent or treat injuries.
- Trigger point massage. This massage focuses on areas of tight muscle fibers that can form in your muscles after injuries or overuse.
Pavana Massage is owned and operated by Elizabeth T. Swift. Liz Swift graduated from Mount Ida College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science. After working as a Veterinary Technician at referral hospitals in New Hampshire she decided to pursue a career in Massage Therapy. She studied and received an advanced degree in massage and body work from Palmer Institute of Massage Therapy after which she practiced within a chiropractor’s environment for several years.
Liz then decided to further her education and combine her vocations - her love for people, horses and the benefits of massage therapy. She studied under Jo-Ann Wilson and received certification in the well-respected Meagher Method of Equine Sports Massage.
Liz enjoys her work with horses, bringing relief to individuals who have common injuries, as well as, those with more complex problems.
Please call today to receive your first introduction to massage.