Pain Management and Massage Therapy

By Kimberly Boler
Pain Management and Massage Therapy

Massage therapy helps decrease pain by relaxing muscles, improving blood flow, and reducing stress, which all work together to relieve discomfort and tension in the body.


How Massage Eases Pain:

  1. Relaxes Tight Muscles – When muscles are tense or knotted, they can cause pain. Massage helps loosen them up, making movement easier and reducing stiffness.
     

  2. Improves Blood Flow – Massage increases circulation, which brings more oxygen and nutrients to sore areas, helping them heal faster and reducing inflammation.
     

  3. Releases Endorphins – These are the body’s natural painkillers. Massage triggers the release of endorphins, which help block pain signals and create a sense of well-being.
     

  4. Reduces Nerve Compression – If tight muscles press on nerves, they can cause pain, tingling, or numbness. Massage eases muscle tightness, taking pressure off the nerves.
     

  5. Lowers Stress and Anxiety – Stress can make pain worse. Massage promotes relaxation by reducing cortisol (the stress hormone) and increasing serotonin, which helps improve mood and pain tolerance.
     

  6. Reduces Inflammation – Certain massage techniques can help decrease swelling and inflammation, especially after an injury or surgery.
     

What Types of Pain Can Massage Help With?