Helping Hands: The Health Benefits Of Massage

Helping Hands: The Health Benefits Of Massage

About Me

Helping Hands: The Health Benefits Of Massage

Susan Lofthouse at your service. I recently retired from a high-stress management position and to the shock of my family and friends, I am making a complete career change. I have just completed the first level of my course to become a qualified massage therapist! Whenever I stayed at resorts, I was impressed by the positive effects of daily massages. I managed to destress and felt healthier. Through my studies, I’ve learnt that there are proven scientific reasons for the improvements to my well-being. Whilst most people enjoy a good massage, I’m sure that there are many people who aren’t aware of the vast range of health conditions that can be treated. I have started this blog to record the journey of my learning and share the knowledge I gain along the way. I really hope it helps you to appreciate the joys and health benefits of massage.

 

Sleeping Your Way To Less Back Pain

24 February 2015
 Categories: , Blog

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If you are vulnerable to back pain, you will know how hard it can be to get a good night of sleep with a sore back. Here are some steps that you can take to help your back pain, with better sleep positions.

Better pillow positions

Many people find that sleeping on their side with a body pillow, or a standard pillow between their thighs, can help reduce back pain particularly where your back pain related in part to hip pain. By raising the top leg, the spine is in better alignment with less pressure on the spine. If you sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees to relieve pressure on your back, and if you sleep on your stomach, try placing a pillow under your pelvis.

In some cases upgrading your pillows to better support your neck can also reduce pressure on your spine, particularly if you sleep with fluffy, non-supportive pillows.

Improve your mattress

If you are sleeping on an old saggy mattress, this can aggravate existing back problems. Mattresses should be replaced every 10 years. Most people find a medium firm mattress the most helpful for back pains. As you get older, you may find you need to replace your mattress more regularly as your body becomes more sensitive

To maximise the life of your mattress, rotate it every two weeks to ensure the wear is even.

Chiropractor assistance

Chiropractor sessions can often temporarily relieve back pain, allowing you to get some sleep, and a chiropractor can work out a long-term plan to fix underlying spinal issues. Chiropractors primarily look to mobilize the joints and relieve pressure, as well as massaging the spinal area. Chiropractors can also advise on massages and stretches you can do at home for pain relief. For more information, contact a business such as Wellsure.

Get 8 hours of sleep

Unfortunately, our pain perception worsens when tired, meaning a poor night of sleep increases your perception of the severity of your back pain. Make sure to leave enough time in bed to get at least 8 hours of sleep, and don't always burn the midnight oil. Make sure to leave bed as a venue for sleeping and do not get into the habit of watching TV or using bed for other activities.

Getting a good night of sleep may not cure your back pain fully, but it can increase functioning and range of movement, allowing you to exercise and participate in your life.