Both Thai and Swedish massages have been reported to be beneficial in alleviating chronic low back pain.
Thai massage
is a non-pharmaceutical means of reducing back pain, and it has many health benefits, from reducing stress to relieving muscle tension. Below, we look at five health benefits of Thai massage. The stretches of a Thai massage can help to relieve excess stress on the skeletal structure, including the spine, and soothe the lower back.The combination of gentle massages and stretching in this technique relaxes and lengthens tense muscles, removing pressure from the back and allowing the muscles to re-align properly, relieving pain. Additionally, Thai massage can improve the circulation of fluid in the joints or synovial fluid, reducing friction between the joints. Brain scans of people who received Thai massage treatments showed more relaxation and much less anxiety than people who underwent physical therapy treatments for the same conditions. This is because Thai massage is based on the idea that energy moves through the body along predictable lines or pathways known as the senses.
In one study, researchers used a Thai massage program combined with wand exercises to study the effects on people with knee arthritis. In several small studies involving patients with chronic headaches, researchers found that Thai massage reduced the intensity of migraines and tension headaches. A randomized trial examined the effects of Thai and Swedish massages on people experiencing fatigue. The results revealed that Thai massage increased energy and mental stimulation, while Swedish massage was more likely to improve relaxation and sleep.
Relaxation combined with the energizing and invigorating effects of Thai massage help people feel mentally and physically restored. It's ideal for those who can't get a deep tissue massage, such as anyone with fibromyalgia or people who are recovering from an injury. Recent research has revealed that Thai massage is associated with many health benefits, such as improved circulation, improved range of motion and reduced stress levels. However, people who have cancer, are pregnant, or are recovering from surgery should not have a Thai massage due to its physical intensity which could cause health complications or worsen pre-existing injuries.
