By Kirsten Kvaale, RMT
Anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions.
Although research in this field is limited, massage has been suggested to promote a general sense of relaxation and can stimulate the release of mood-boosting hormones.
While massage therapy probably won’t cure anxiety or depression, it can be used to alleviate the physical symptoms that often accompany the disorders. RMT’s can lead their clients through different breathing techniques and create a safe space in their treatment room that can help reduce feelings of anxiousness. Depression is often accompanied by fatigue, restless sleeps, muscle aches, and joint pain, all of which can be addressed by a knowledgeable Massage Therapist.
RMT’s spend a great amount of one-on-one time with their clients in order to fully address and understand their concerns. For some, just feeling heard is enough to begin the healing process. An RMT will work with their clients to understand their discomforts, establish goals, and create a treatment plan specifically for that unique individual. The treatment room is a safe space to open up about any questions or concerns, and the client is in full control of what goes on during their massage.
Swollen hands, feet, and ankles.
Registered Massage Therapists are trained in manual lymphatic drainage. Swelling of the extremities may be caused by lymphedema, an accumulation of lymphatic fluid due to a disruption in the lymphatic system.
A few conditions that may benefit from MLD are chronic venous insufficiency, lipedema, fibromyalgia, pregnancy, post-surgical procedures, and many more. A manual lymphatic drainage treatment maintains a superficial pressure in order to avoid collapsing the vessels the fluid is attempting to move through. This can have a very beneficial relaxation effect and the visual reduction of swelling may be noted after just one treatment.
Constipation and other gastrointestinal conditions.
Many clients are hesitant to bring up gastrointestinal issues to their RMT because they think it isn’t relevant during a massage. However, RMT’s have extensive knowledge of the GI Tract and techniques that promote digestion and motility. During an abdominal massage, the client is covered from the chest up and the waste down, leaving only the abdomen undraped. The Massage Therapist will check in throughout the treatment to ensure their client’s comfort is maintained.
Registered Massage Therapists in BC are trained to understand, assess, and treat a variety of conditions. If you think massage can be beneficial to your health, contact a local RMT or speak with your doctor. Many clinics have student or intern massage therapists who are able to treat at a discounted price. This is a great option for those wanting to try massage therapy for the first time or those wanting to save some money while also supporting the learning of a soon-to-be RMT.
