Scientific research supports the use of massage therapy as an effective approach in pain and injury management, rehabilitation and prevention. It has been found to be more effective in increasing blood flow than moderate exercise. Massage therapy techniques decrease blood pressure and heart rate, making it a recommended treatment for some cardiac and hypertensive patients. Massage therapists use techniques that can act directly on pain receptors, either at a peripheral or central nervous system level. Pain relief can also be obtained by the increase of range of motion and the release of myofascial trigger points. Massage therapy is a low risk and highly effective form of treatment.
Benefits of Massage Therapy Include:
- Muscle relaxation
- Relief of muscle spasm and cramps
- Improved athletic performance and enhanced recovery
- Rehabilitation following muscle injury
- Treatment of immobilized, paralyzed and denervated muscles
- Improved balance, coordination and mobility
- More restful sleep
- Decreased need for pain or sleeping medication
- Increased range of motion
- Increased circulation
- Improved nutrition to tissues and removal of waste products
- Reduced swelling caused by fluid retention
- Improved skin tone and relief of dryness
- Speeds healing from injuries and surgery
- Increased energy
- Improved appetite and digestion
- Helps relieve constipation
- Helps release tension before it's a problem
- Boots immune system
Conditions that may be Relieved by Massage Therapy:
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Back Pain
- Bursitis
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Chronic Pain
- Constipation
- Contractures
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Dislocations
- Edema
- Emphysema
- Fibromyalgia
- Frozen Shoulder
- Headaches
- Illiotibial Band Contracture
- Insomnia
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Jaw Pain
- Migraines
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Muscle Tension/Spasm
- Neck Pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Parkinsons
- Patellofemoral Syndrome
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Pregnancy
- Prolapsed Disc Herniation
- Sciatica
- Scoliosis
- Sinusitis
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Sports/Work Injury
- Sprains/Strains
- Stress
- Tendinitis
- Whiplash
Medical Coverage:
RMTs are primary contact providers; therefore, referrals are not required for MSP coverage of their services. Massage Therapy remains an insured benefit under the Medical Services Plan for those who meet government income guidelines. Most extended medical plans cover 80-100% of massage therapy fees so check your benefits plan with your employer.
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