Helping Hands: The Health Benefits Of Massage

A good massage therapist will do more than just rub your tired muscles; he or she should also be paying attention to signs of certain health concerns you may have, and should also be adjusting their technique according to your own particular needs. In many ways, a massage therapist should be considered a part of your healthcare team.

Note some secrets about your body that your massage therapist might know, and how to use this information for better overall health.

1. If your poor posture is damaging your spine or muscles

Proper posture is necessary for protecting the muscles of the back and even around the hips, as these muscles work overtime and begin to get worn and tired when you're not holding yourself upright as you should. When you don't practice proper posture, these muscles will overcompensate for the job that other muscles should be doing, and in turn you may be stiff and sore. Your spine might also be out of alignment as it becomes accustomed to be curved and bent.

A massage therapist will recognize these things as he or she does a visual inspection of your back and works your muscles. They may note excessive tension around the lower back or that your spine is not as straight as it could be. Noting this can allow you to make adjustments to your posture so you alleviate this pain and tension.

2. If stress and tension are beginning to take a physical toll

Most people experience some form of stress and tension but it doesn't always affect them physically. However, your massage therapist will know if your shoulders and neck are stiffer and tighter than usual, something you may not even realize.

When a person is under stress they may tense up those muscles as part of readying for a confrontation or simply because they are not able to relax, but they may be accustomed to the feeling and not notice it. Your massage therapist can tell you if this tension is actually even causing damage to your muscles so you can address your stress and do what you can to relieve it.

3. If you're dehydrated or not getting certain nutrients in your diet

When you're dehydrated, your skin may become waxy and dry. If you're missing certain nutrients, your nails may be brittle or your skin may be sallow and pale. Your massage therapist will notice these types of characteristics in your back, hands, and even your hair. Alerting you to these can ensure that you get enough water and take a vitamin supplement if necessary, or make changes to your diet as needed.

Learn more by contacting local resources such as Massage World - Sydney.