The art of massage has been a popular therapy for a very long time, and has been a proven treatment for many health issues. We seem to instinctively know that a neck and shoulder massage will relieve the built-up tension from our day, so it should come as no surprise that massage has become a proven treatment that helps anxiety patients.

The benefits of massage to the physical body are well known and documented. Massage is a regular part of an athlete’s training and recovery from injury; sports teams employ full-time massage therapists who are always on hand at games and training. Doctors already prescribe massage treatment for patients with chronic pain, repetitive stress injury and fibromyalgia pain.

More recently, there has been an increase in the number of health professionals who use massage therapy for their anxiety patients, in conjunction with other treatments. Massage has been shown to work well with, and in place of, prescription medication. Many patients and doctors are opting for the combination of massage therapy, herbal preparations and counseling as a viable alternative to medication.

Massage and anxiety

The muscles of the body react in the same way to anxiety as they do with tension – they contract. Muscles that are held in a state of contraction for an extended time create pain, tiredness and potential injury. The flow-on effect is more anxiety and tension, thus creating a depressing cycle. The massage therapist will work at releasing the affected muscles, causing them to relax and reducing the stress in the patient.

Another effect of massage on the body is the reduced production of stress-producing hormones, which are partly responsible for the anxiety condition in the patient. Scientists are, as yet, unable to explain why this happens, but the proof for many anxiety sufferers is in the relief of symptoms. In seems that regular massage for anxiety patients is effective in lowering levels of stress hormones, and this provides them with on-going relief.

How to find a massage therapist

The doctor or health professional will usually refer you to a specific professional massage therapist, who is fully trained to give the most appropriate massage for the patient. However, these therapists can be expensive and their treatment is not always covered by the patient’s health insurance. Time could be another issue, but once the benefits are realized, most patients find the time for a regular massage.

There are possible alternatives for the anxiety patient. A friend or family member may know some massage or could perhaps learn enough to give a relaxation massage. There are now massage chairs on the market which would benefit the anxiety patient. It is also possible to give yourself a hand or foot massage, including the arms, neck and shoulders, to provide some relief.

It is best if the patient asks their doctor about massage therapy as part of their treatment, remembering that it will help them feel relaxed and improve their state of mind.

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