Remedial massage works in several ways that researchers have studied for years. It can ease pain by relaxing tight muscles and influencing the nerve signals sent to the brain, support circulation, shift stress hormones such as cortisol and serotonin, and help reduce muscle inflammation after exercise. Research is ongoing, but here is what we know, and what it means for a session at Needa Massage in Rockingham.

Most people who see a professional remedial massage therapist already know it works for them. They walk in feeling less than their best and walk out feeling much better. What fewer people know is the science behind how and why it helps.

How does remedial massage relieve pain?

Remedial massage can ease temporary pain from exercise, tension headaches and other mild ailments, and it can also help with the discomfort of conditions that cause chronic pain. Research suggests the hands-on work relaxes tension in painful muscles, joints and tendons and may help reduce inflammation, which together can bring overall pain relief.

Studies have also found that massage can affect the pain messages travelling to the brain. By stimulating different nerve fibres, it can compete with the signals from the pain receptors, so less pain is felt. If you want the basics first, see our guide to what remedial massage actually is.

Does remedial massage improve circulation?

Remedial massage has been linked to increased blood flow and circulation. Applying pressure to the muscles stimulates blood and lymph flow, which supports your body’s overall circulation. Good circulation matters because poor circulation is associated with a range of health problems, and it is one reason muscles can feel heavy, tight and sore.

How does remedial massage affect serotonin and cortisol?

Studies have shown that remedial massage can change levels of two key hormones, serotonin and cortisol.

Serotonin, sometimes called the “happy hormone”, is a chemical and neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, memory, appetite and many other key functions. Cortisol comes from the adrenal gland and helps your body control blood pressure, metabolism and the “fight or flight” stress response.

Massage has been linked to an increase in serotonin, which is associated with reduced pain and anxiety, and to a decrease in cortisol, which drives your stress response. The healthdirect massage guide covers what massage may help with in more detail.

Can remedial massage reduce muscle inflammation?

Athletes have long reported that massage helps with muscle inflammation and recovery, which has prompted a string of studies. Recent research suggests that at a cellular level, massage can reduce muscle inflammation while also supporting the growth of mitochondria, the parts of your cells that produce energy. If you train regularly, our sports massage treatment is built around recovery.

So is remedial massage backed by science?

Remedial massage is still a topic of ongoing research, and not every effect has been fully pinned down. But the evidence so far is encouraging, and it points to real benefits for a large and varied group of people, from desk workers with tight shoulders to weekend athletes. How often you book matters too, which we cover in how often should I get a massage.

Book a remedial massage in Rockingham

Ready to feel the difference for yourself? Mark offers remedial massage in clinic and through our mobile service.

Call Mark on 0419 933 897, contact us, or book a session online. We look after clients across Rockingham, Warnbro and Baldivis, in clinic or through our mobile massage service.

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