Are body massages truly healthy for you? Experts weigh in
Are you a massage enthusiast, booking appointments every few months to unwind and release stress? It's time to consider the true benefits of massages. A recent study published in the 2022 National Health Interview Survey revealed that 8.5% of Americans use massage for overall health. But are they worth the hype? Let's explore the physical and emotional advantages of this ancient practice.
Physical Benefits
Massages offer more than just relaxation. As Rocco Caputo, a touch therapist at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, explains, they help individuals reconnect with their bodies. This connection triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a state of calm. A 2023 study in JAMA found that massage significantly reduced long-term pain for advanced cancer patients. Another study in Pain Medicine (2025) reported that veterans who received weekly massages for 12 weeks experienced improved pain management, particularly in lower back pain. Interestingly, a 2014 study in Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation discovered that leg massages after leg press exercises enhanced blood flow in the arms, indicating that massages can positively impact the entire body.
Emotional Benefits
Massage therapy is more than a luxury; it's a mood booster. Dr. Carla Kuon, an associate professor at the University of California, San Francisco, explains that massages increase endorphin release, the body's natural painkillers. Studies in Nature Human Behaviour (2024) and OAsis (2016) support this, showing that positive touch reduces anxiety and depression and enhances mental well-being. Participants in these studies reported increased body awareness, which can boost motivation and resilience.
Who Should Get a Massage?
A 2018 study in Global Advances in Health and Medicine found that massages effectively alleviate distress, tension, anxiety, fatigue, and improve sleep. Participants also reported a heightened sense of wellness. If you're seeking mental or physical relief, a massage therapy session could be just what you need. In today's fast-paced world, where everyone is chasing success, a massage can provide a much-needed escape and a gift to yourself, offering a moment of tranquility in the midst of chaos.
Note: This article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or changing your routine.
