How can massage help you recovery from an injury?

1. Massage Creates an Entry Point for Movement 

Exercise is the foundation of most physical therapy plans. But when pain or stiffness makes movement difficult, massage can provide a critical starting point. By reducing pain and improving movement tolerance, massage opens the door to exercises that support recovery. This is especially helpful for those managing sciatica or chronic back pain, as it helps ease into movement without irritation. 

2. Massage Helps Rewire Chronic Pain States 

Chronic pain, such as lingering discomfort from a years-old car accident, is often less about physical damage and more about how the nervous system interprets danger signals. Massage works by providing sensory information that helps the body reassess these signals. For conditions like sciatica or chronic back pain, this can reduce sensitization and help the nervous system “recalibrate” its response. 

3. Massage Provides Relaxation for Stress Relief 

Injuries and pain often come with high levels of stress, fatigue, and anxiety. Massage therapy can significantly reduce state anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep quality. This is particularly valuable for people whose back pain or sciatica is exacerbated by stress. A relaxed body is better equipped to heal and handle the demands of daily life. ‍

Maximizing the Benefits of Massage and Exercise 

Combining massage with movement creates a powerful duo for injury recovery and pain relief. While massage helps you feel better in the short term, movement ensures those benefits last. If you’re looking to reduce back pain, ease sciatica, or simply improve your range of motion, consider scheduling a massage and following it up with a personalized exercise plan. 

Ready to take the next step? Book your massage at our St. John’s clinic here or call us at (709) 793-7993 to find a time that works for you. 

The Momentum Health Team 

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