In cases of nerve damage, massage therapy may be a beneficial treatment option for relieving symptoms and improving overall health. If you experience tingling, numbness, or pain in some areas of the body, massage therapy can help alleviate these symptoms. The main goal of massage is to encourage muscles to relax, soften, and lengthen. If the soft tissues are causing the nerves to compress, massage can cause them to relax and ease the painful pressure on the nerve.
It is important to tell your doctor that you are trying massage therapy and follow any standard treatment plans you have. Additionally, if a massage therapist suggests using other alternative medicine practices (such as herbs or supplements, or a special diet), it is best to talk to your regular health care provider first. The idea behind connective tissue massage is that restriction in one area of the body can adversely affect other areas of the body. While massage therapy won't “fix” a herniated disc or similar problem, it may bring relief in the meantime.
Professional sports teams often employ professional sports masseurs and athletes may privately employ them as well. Medical massages are performed by professionals with a strong background in pathology, illness and injury, and in the contraindications of specific massage techniques related to various medical conditions. Deep tissue massage penetrates deep into muscles and connective tissue to release chronic aches and pains; its purpose is to reach the fascia below the surface muscles. The purpose of practicing massage is to improve overall health and well-being of the recipient.
Deep tissue massage uses slow movements, direct pressure, or friction that are applied along the muscles with the fingers, thumbs, or elbows. For example, straining the muscles and tendons in the wrist can put pressure on the median nerve and cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Massage therapy appears to have few serious risks if performed by a properly trained therapist and if appropriate precautions are followed. For a pinched nerve in the lower back, a deep tissue massage might provide more relief than a standard Swedish massage.
In this post, we'll provide professional information about pinched nerves, along with when and how massage therapy can alleviate your symptoms.
