Almost everyone experiences sore muscles and could use some relief from the tension that builds up in our bodies over time. Whether you sit in front of a computer all day, stand in a classroom, or train as an athlete, you put a strain on your body throughout the day. And if you live with chronic pain, you really understand what it feels like to crave some release.
So, how can you sooth your muscles and improve your health? Medical treatments can seem serious or expensive, but you may be uncertain of a holistic approach. Here is some valuable information on remedial massage and how it could benefit you and your body.
What is a remedial massage therapist?
Remedial massage is a form of massage therapy that works on damaged muscles. It can be an effective treatment against issues involving tendons and bones as well. If you suffer from an identified medical problem, remedial massage could be beneficial. This treatment is common among athletes and often referred to as sports massage, but it is not limited to performance athletes.
You can rest easy knowing that remedial massage therapy is performed by a qualified remedial massage therapist. They will spend time getting to know you and the specific issues you face. Together, you can develop a treatment plan to target knotted or damaged muscles and tendons. While remedial massage is typically used as a therapeutic tool, it can be very relaxing sometimes.
People who experience chronic pain can also benefit from consistent remedial massage sessions. Impaired or even immobile muscles can be targeted through this type of treatment and offer some relief to your everyday life. Managing chronic pain is actually one of the major functions of remedial massage therapy.
Sessions for remedial massage therapy are usually offered in 30, 45, 60 or 90-minute blocks. Shorter massages can target a specific area of the body or muscle group. If you are experiencing a range of issues, longer sessions can cover multiple areas. Your remedial massage therapist may suggest frequent sessions at the beginning to work out any problems and then decrease frequency as these issues resolve. If you have chronic pain, regular sessions can help you find relief for longer periods of time and maintain your normal level of activity.
What is the difference between a Physiotherapist, Chiropractor, and a Remedial Massage Therapist?
Now that you know a little more about remedial massage therapy, you may be wondering how it compares to other forms of treatment and massage. Three of the major health care professionals in therapy are physiotherapists, chiropractors, and remedial massage therapists. One or all of these treatment options may be right for you at some point in your life. It is important to understand what each form of massage treats so you can find the proper care to recover from your health issues.
Physiotherapists focus much of their attention on restoring function after a disease or injury. Like a remedial massage therapist, a physiotherapist will assess your condition and determine a plan of treatment. This type of therapy can help reduce swelling and improve your range of motion, especially if you have been injured. Physiotherapists use hot or cold packs, manual therapy, movement training, and other similar tactics to improve mobility and range of motion. Patients with permanent disabilities can work with a physiotherapist to optimize their range of motion and the possible functions they can perform. This type of massage treatment is usually reserved for patients recovering from serious injuries or loss of mobility.
Chiropractors focus on the proper alignment of the body. Their attention is mainly on the musculoskeletal structure and a lot of chiropractic treatments work on the spine. Patients can seek chiropractic treatment to avoid back surgery or strong medications for spinal issues. If you suffer pain in your bones or connective tissues, a chiropractor can help ease your pain. Spinal manipulation is the biggest piece of chiropractic therapy because it can help restore mobility after traumatic events such as a fall or poor spinal support.
While physiotherapists and chiropractors focus on very specific issues, remedial massage therapy is a broader form of treatment. Your doctor may recommend physiotherapy if you need to reduce swelling or restore function after an accident or injury. If you feel your spine is out of alignment or you suffer from frequent back pain, a chiropractor may be your answer. However, remedial massage therapy can address these issues and provide a general level of comfort and relief to a wide range of patients.
Remedial massage benefits
If you are still unsure about remedial massage therapy, it can help to understand the variety of benefits this form of treatment can provide. Results of remedial massage therapy will vary by each patient and their specific needs. Benefits of remedial massage therapy can include:
- Stimulate blood supply
- Increase mobility in joints
- Encourage the repair of damaged tissues
- Correctly position bones
- Ease sore muscles
- Stabilize weak or damaged muscles
- Decrease headaches
- Resolve abdominal pain
- Improve lower back or sciatic pain
- Treat whiplash
- Heal injuries associated with sports
- Reduce muscle cramps
- Lessen the symptoms of arthritis
- Manage chronic pain
- Decrease recovery time for injuries
- Heal scar tissue left from surgery
- Improve the flow or drainage of lymph fluid for cancer patients
- Relieve jaw pain
- Treat pain from plantar fasciitis
In addition to the many health issues and ailments listed above, remedial massage therapy can address the everyday aches and pains most of us face. People who are dealing with a particularly stressful time or situation can find relief for tense muscles. Professionals who hunch over their desk or sit for long periods of time can work out knots that form in their neck and shoulders. Also, teachers, construction workers, and other professionals who stand for extended periods of time can heal sore legs and feet.
Is remedial massage therapy right for you?
Athletes are obvious candidates for remedial massage therapy, but they are not the only ones who can benefit from this type of treatment. Anyone who suffers from pain caused by repetitive and taxing tasks can find relief in remedial massage therapy. Patients interested in managing chronic pain can improve their range of motion and everyday functions. In fact, there are very few people who would not benefit from remedial massage therapy.
You can book a session with a remedial massage therapist and discuss your specific health issues. They will provide a recommended treatment plan and you can decide if this type of massage therapy is right for you. There is very little risk associated with remedial massage therapy, so it is safe for most patients to try. However, do not be alarmed if you experience sore muscles for up to 72 hours after your session. Your massage therapist is likely working deep within the tissue to provide long-term relief and sooth muscles and joints.
Your remedial massage therapist went through an extensive training process and has extensive knowledge in the fields of pathology and physiology. Remedial massage is one of the few types of massage therapy that is highly regarded in the medical community and considered truly effective.
Be sure to communicate with your therapist before, during, and after your massage session. It is crucial that you let them know if any type of treatment is particularly painful or uncomfortable. You should also let them know which techniques provided the most relief. This information will help them tailor the session to meet your specific needs and provide a better overall experience.
How to find a remedial massage therapist
If you are looking for a remedial massage therapist, it is important to check their training background. Avoid “pop-up” clinics that appear temporary. Your therapist should be registered with an accredited association, which requires extensive training. Australia’s Association of Professional Therapists is one example of an accredited association for massage therapists.
Remedial massage therapy is actually quite popular in Australia, so you might be overwhelmed with possible therapists or clinics. If you are looking for a remedial massage therapist in Australia or want to know more about the therapy, you should contact Ryan Aziz at Ziztherapy. Ryan is a trained and highly experienced remedial therapist who started Ziztherapy in order to provide tailored health and recovery solutions.
At Ziztherapy, Ryan provides each client with a unique treatment plan and no two patients are ever the same. Each session is carefully and thoughtfully planned with your needs in mind. Whether you have a specific health issue or a desire to generally reduce pain and sore muscles, Ziztherapy is your answer. Stop waiting for pain relief and take action! Schedule your first remedial massage therapy session with Zizthearpy today.