4 Benefits of a Shoulder and Neck Massage

In our daily routines, we are subconsciously putting stress on our body. Signing a cheque, clicking the computer mouse, driving on the road or even using the mobile phone can cause muscle tension and tightness in our neck and shoulders.

Parents often get neck and shoulder pain from carrying their baby. Mothers in the postpartum stage are especially vulnerable to injuries because hormonal changes in pregnancy have left the ligaments and joints looser. This repetitive strain injury is likely to get worse and can lead to a slumped posture, putting more tension on the neck, shoulders and back.

Applying pressure on the muscles around your neck and shoulders helps to reduce muscular tension and ease day-to-day stress. A massage therapy can do more than just relaxation. Here are 4 therapeutic benefits from getting a neck and shoulder massage:

1. Recovery of muscle soreness

Massaging on sore areas of the body encourages increased blood flow and oxygen which helps to soothe pain and reduce inflammation. Massage release endorphins – an amino acid that works as the body’s natural painkiller. After a massage your range of motion will also improve due to the removal of build-up lactic acid which causes stiffness in muscles.

2. Helps reduce migraines and eye strains

Massages are a natural alternative, without side effects, that helps headaches and migraine pain. It promotes relieving muscle spasms and helps better blood circulation which reduces pressure in the head. A study found that patients with ongoing migraines experienced a dramatic reduce in headache pain with regular neck, shoulder and head massage treatment.

3. Improve positive moods

Not only your body will benefit from massages, but your mood elevates too! We carry anxiety symptoms in our shoulders and neck. Studies found an increase in serotonin and dopamine levels in participants who had massage treatments. When our body is relaxed, so is our nervous system. Our heart rate lowers and so does our breathing, massages are a useful way to realign your body. Some companies offer their employees regular massage treatments because it lessens employee stress which improves overall job satisfaction.

4. Strengthens Immune System

Regular massage increases white blood cells and lymphocytes, which are vital for fighting off illnesses and infections. It activates the lymphatic system, which is responsible for filtering and removing of harmful substance in the body, thus making your body strong and healthy.