How Often?
How often should someone come in for a massage? That seems to be the million dollar question that I get asked all the time. And the answer is? Well…hmmm, it depends on all sorts of things and, really, there are other questions that need to be asked in order to get an idea as to what the answer is.
SO HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU HAVE A MASSAGE? Let’s break this down into other questions that can help answer it.
What are your goals for getting a massage? Pain management, preventative or otherwise?
- Preventative—If you have no major aches and pains or no recent trauma, then at a minimum, one time a month is best.
- Pain Management—This could apply whether you have chronic pain or pain issues on a short term basis or even just intermittently. When we experience pain, our bodies tense up everywhere not just in the area of pain. If you are getting massage to help with pain management, receiving massage on a weekly basis for a minimum of 4 weeks and then taper off to every other week until you gt to a point where the pain has decreased in intensity and frequency or is completely gone.
How long are you pain free after your massage? People with chronic pain know what it is like to be in constant pain and when they find something that helps to alleviate their pain without taking additional medications, it is a bonus for them. If you are pain free for a week after your massage, then I would recommend massage weekly.
How hard are you on your body? You might think that someone that works in construction is much harder on their body than someone who works at a desk all day. Each and every person, regardless of their profession, is hard on their body. Each and every profession has its own set of muscular issues. Construction work—low back pain, shoulder and neck pain. Desk/computer work—carpal tunnel, neck and shoulder pain. The question that you should ask yourself, regardless, is how does your body feel at the end of your work shift? Pay attention to your body at the end of each work day, that will help you pinpoint where you are experiencing muscle tension. Getting massage every other week is recommended unless you have some chronic pain issues, then once a week.
How do you cope with everyday stresses? Let’s face it, living in our society today just about everything we encounter on a daily basis can be stressful. Seems there is a deadline for everything. Stress takes a tremendous toll on your body. It can disrupt your sleep, it can cause headaches, stomach issues and general aches and pains throughout your body. Massage is a wonderful way to help with stress without turning to medications. Every other week is recommended here.
You’re too busy and stressed for a massage? (Yep, I have heard all of the excuses). Taking time out for yourself, especially when you’re so busy and stressed is a perfect way to help you be more productive and focused.
Unless you recently had a trauma to your body, you didn’t just wake up one day and have all of these aches and pains. Your body has been trying to get your attention for quite some time. This has now become your norm, all these aches and pains.
Your body is a creature of habit, the more frequently you do something or receive a treatment, the better it responds. Therefore, the more often you receive a massage, your muscles will have a chance to relax and your body will begin to adjust to your new norm, with the goal of eventually being pain free again.
This, however, doesn’t happen with you just coming in every 6 months or whenever the pain gets so bad you can’t stand it anymore. Making a committed effort in helping your body heal itself is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and your loves ones. Regularly receiving massage is an wonderful investment in yourself and the returns you will receive are endless.
My challenge to you: Take some time right now and pay attention to your body. Where are you feeling tension and tightness? Do you have a headache? Does your low back hurt? How about your neck and shoulders? These are the little reminders that your body is sending you to help you remember to take care of yourself. Massage is a perfect way to help alleviate the aches and pains of your busy life. Take time now and call me for an appointment (317) 372-1988.