There aren't set rules for how many massages you can have, but your general practitioner (GP) or massage therapist can suggest how often and how long would be good for you. Typically, If you're getting massage therapy for an injury, you might need more frequent massages. You can have a massage less often if your goal is pampering or relaxation.
As massages have become essential for soothing sore muscles and calming busy minds, many people wonder how frequently they should get a massage.
For this reason, we decided to round up different massage techniques as well as their recommended frequency and duration. This will help you determine the type of massage you’ll need to target a specific area or address a specific issue.
How often should you get a full-body massage?
How often and how long you should get a massage depends on the type and area you're targeting. Studies about massage frequency and duration have already been done and results are available. You can ask your massage therapist how often you should come to help with your needs.
Here are some types of massage to think about. Picking the right one can help you figure out how often you need treatment.
Full-Body Massage
A full-body massage, often known as Swedish massage, is for relaxation. You can get this relaxation massage occasionally, every few weeks, or monthly to de-stress and feel more centred.
At our Melbourne massage shop, we offer a full-body Thai massage. For this particular technique, you can have sessions either once a week or once a month. It's best to speak with our licensed massage therapist about how often you should get one, depending on your specific needs.
Sports Massage
A sports massage aims to improve circulation, enhance tissue elasticity and reduce muscle tension. It is particularly effective in relieving tight muscles, which can otherwise restrict flexibility, heighten pain and contribute to future injuries.
If you're active in sports or with a physically demanding job, think about scheduling sports massages every two weeks. It's advisable to allow 24 to 48 hours of muscle recovery between each session.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage uses slow, strong strokes to reach deep muscles and tissues. It's an excellent massage therapy for treating muscle damage from injuries.
One study found that performing deep tissue massage for 30 minutes every day for 10 days helps reduce back pain.
For pain relief, you might want to consider getting deep tissue massages daily, a few times a week or a few times a month. Our experienced massage therapist can suggest how often and how long you should get one based on your health condition.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
This massage is excellent for draining lymph nodes after surgery or being affected by a medical condition. It helps the fluid in your lymph nodes move and releases any build-up.
Initially, you might need this massage every day, but as time goes on, you can try it two or three times a week. A lymphatic drainage massage should only be performed by a professional massage therapist.
With the aim of stimulating the lymphatic system, our experienced massage therapists here at Siam Soul use gentle, rhythmic movements without applying too much pressure on the vessels. They will make sure you have a painless and deeply relaxing massage experience.
Scalp Massage
A scalp massage is quite relaxing and might lower your blood pressure and heart rate. A study in Korea found that women working in the office experienced these health benefits from 15 to 25-minute scalp massages twice a week for 10 weeks. A regular scalp massage could help you feel calm and improve your overall outlook.
Pregnancy Massage/Prenatal Massage
A prenatal massage is a therapeutic massage specifically designed for pregnant women. It helps ease common pregnancy discomforts like back pain, joint pain, swelling and muscle tension.
A 20-minute, weekly massage performed by a professional may be enough to lessen anxiety, stress and physical symptoms of pregnancy. We usually suggest pregnancy massage sessions lasting 60 to 90 minutes, based on the client's preferences and needs.
At Siam Soul, our massage therapists are trained to adjust their techniques for a pregnant woman's changing body, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.
Massage Frequency and Duration for Certain Health Conditions
Massage can help ease specific painful symptoms or reduce stress and anxiety. For pain relief, you might need more frequent massages. Alternatively, less frequent but regularly scheduled massages can be beneficial for your mental health.
Neck Pain
Massage can provide short-term relief for neck pain, and having frequent massages may be most beneficial. A study discovered that receiving a 60-minute massage two or three times a week showed more benefits for neck pain compared to a 60-minute massage once a week or a few 30-minute massages weekly.
Back Pain
Getting a regular massage might help with your back pain. One study found that doing a deep tissue massage session for 30 minutes every day for 10 days reduces back pain. The GPs now recognise massage as a treatment for low back pain that lasts up to 12 weeks.
Anxiety and Stress
Having a massage once or twice a month may help relieve anxiety and stress. A 2018 study found that 66 percent of individuals seek massages for relaxation and stress management.
You might want to go for a 60-minute relaxation massage. This could reduce your cortisol levels by 30 per cent and increase serotonin levels by 28 per cent, promoting relaxation and enhancing your mental well-being.
What are the Benefits of Massage?
Massage makes you feel really relaxed and calm by making your brain release chemicals called endorphins. These chemicals give you a good feeling. Massage also lowers stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which helps your immune system stay healthy.
Here are other massage health benefits:
Helps with pain management
Provide stress relief
Heighten mental alertness
Increase joint mobility and flexibility
Reduce anxiety and depression
Reduce muscle tension
Improve recovery of soft tissue injuries
Improve skin tone
Improve circulation
Stimulate the lymphatic system
Promote relaxation
Special Considerations Regarding Massage Therapy
Massages may not be safe for everyone.
Especially if you have specific health conditions such as:
Bleeding disorders
Open wounds or burns
Broken or fractured bones
Cancer
Osteoporosis or other serious medical conditions
Use caution and speak with your GP if needed.
Before getting a massage, especially during pregnancy or if you have a history of blood clots, consult with your doctor. Prenatal massage specialists can ensure the safety of pregnant individuals. If you have blood clot concerns, discuss them with your GP to avoid potential risks. Additionally, if you experience pain during a massage, stop the session and seek medical advice.
How Often Should You Get a Massage? Speak with a Professional at Siam Soul
If chronic pain or a health issue is impacting your life, talk to our massage therapists about how often you should get a massage. They can help create a plan that suits your needs and health condition.
Regular massages performed at our clinic can help reduce pain and enhance your overall well-being. Want to get started? Schedule a consultation today!
FAQs
Is it Okay to Combine Two Types of Massage?
A massage therapist can mix different methods based on what you like. For instance, they might combine a hot stone massage with gentle Swedish techniques for better blood flow or use deep tissue methods to ease muscle spasms and joint pain.
Are there any areas of the body you should avoid massaging?
Yes, certain body areas should be treated with care or avoided during a massage, especially if you have specific medical conditions or concerns. Avoid massaging areas with injuries, varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis, infections, tumours, or pregnancy abdomen. Also, be cautious around bony areas and joints.
When is the best time to get a massage?
It's advisable to have your massage after exercising. If a massage tends to make you feel sleepy, scheduling it later in the day allows you to go home afterward. Alternatively, if you prefer not to disrupt your day, consider getting a massage early in the morning.
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