Benefits Of Remedial Massage During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is the most beautiful phase in any woman’s life. However, it is also a period of uncertainty, confusion and joyous anticipation. Pregnant women should prioritise their health since they are fostering a new life inside them. In that way, every pregnant woman has a great deal of responsibility. And that is why, if there are any possible ways for an expectant mother to get more energy and health, she is eager to follow them. Those who plan to get pregnant can prepare their bodies by eating healthy foods and taking essential supplements.

There are a lot of changes women go through during those nine months. There is physical pain, emotional changes, and many other discomforts. In addition to that, as the belly expands, so does body weight, which can cause body stress and other related worries in many women.

In any case, such discomforts are usual throughout pregnancy. Health and wellness programmes can help with such concerns. Meditation and pregnancy yoga are examples of mental and physical wellness practices. Pregnant women might benefit from remedial massage therapy also. 

Pregnancy remedial massage, in particular, has its own set of advantages but first, let’s understand what it is.

What Is Remedial Massage?

Remedial massage combines soft tissue massage methods with various physiotherapy techniques. It uses tactile, often intense massage and soft tissue treatments to treat injured, knotted, tight, or immovable muscles.

When Can You Get a Remedial Massage During Pregnancy?

According to the American Pregnancy Association, a pregnant woman can get a pregnancy remedial massage at any time during the nine months. However, there is some risk attached to getting the massage in the first trimester as these are the first months of pregnancy. Therefore, most healthcare providers recommend starting massage treatments as soon as the second trimester begins.

Many types of massages focus on specific issues and full-body relaxation. In general, remedial massage is beneficial for health problems such as:

• Stress-related issues
• Back and neck pain
• Leg pain
• Hypertension or high blood pressure
• Joint pain 
• Flexibility issues
• Headaches
• Postural issues 
• Pain or tightness
• Sore muscles

Main Benefits of Pregnancy Remedial Massage

There are some expected benefits you will get through these types of massages:

• It repairs tissue damage.
• It improves blood circulation throughout the body.
• Helps to increase mobility. 
• Softens tight muscles and cures headaches and joint pain.
• Helps to correct muscular imbalances. 

Usually, a remedial massage can be performed effectively by a highly professional physiotherapist. The remedial massage therapist should have in-depth knowledge of the body and soft tissue treatments.  

Remedial massage differs from full-body relaxation therapies such as deep tissue massage and Swedish massage. Remedial massage provides a therapeutic experience in addition to total body relaxation since it focuses on physiological disorders and their treatments.

In some cases, it may be painful, but it is the fundamental treatment in physiotherapy and many healing sessions. 

Remedial Massage Therapy Techniques

In a remedial massage session, the therapists focus on the area where the problem exists. They will also analyse the body and suggest specific exercises or movements before starting a treatment. 

There are specific techniques used in remedial massage therapy. These techniques may vary depending on the health problem and the part of the body to be treated.

Generally, in a remedial massage, specific techniques are included. They are,

• Deep tissue massage
• Cupping
• Dry needling
• Joint mobilisation techniques
• Hot and cold therapy
• Stretching
• Lymphatic drainage etc

Pregnancy Remedial Massage

You must consult your healthcare provider first if you are seeking relief from remedial massage therapy. Some women will have various difficulties during their pregnancy. Such problems must be addressed before opting for relaxation treatments. Massage therapies are not recommended for women who are experiencing pregnancy complications.

Massage treatments for pregnant women are supported by research since studies reveal that they have proven advantages for the physical and emotional well-being of an expectant mother.

Here are some of the recognized advantages of remedial massage during pregnancy.

1. Remedial Massage for Regulating Hormones

A pregnant woman’s body will experience several hormonal imbalances during her pregnancy. During pregnancy, a woman’s estrogen and progesterone levels may fluctuate dramatically. They can alter the influence of physical functions during pregnancy. Aside from that, hormonal imbalances might also induce mood swings.

Several types of research on this topic have been undertaken. According to them, therapeutic methods such as remedial massages can positively relieve stress and anxiety by harmonising hormones to a certain degree. 

As part of the research, a few pregnant women were given massage therapy twice a month. The findings were quite positive, with an evident drop in stress hormones like norepinephrine and cortisol and an increase in feel-good hormones such as dopamine and serotonin.

2. To Get Rid of Swelling and Edema

When pregnant, your body retains more water than usual. Throughout pregnancy, it occurs quite often. The blood vessels will have reduced circulation, especially in the last phases. The uterus will exert pressure on the blood vessels, causing edema. This condition creates pain and makes the body less mobile.

Remedial massage treatment stimulates the muscular tissues and aids in relaxing by lowering swelling. Your lymphatic system will be energised as a result of this massage therapy, resulting in the removal of excess fluids and wastes from the body. Thus, massage treatment aids in resolving such difficulties.

3. Reduces Nerve Pain

The foetus develops inside the abdomen as the pregnancy proceeds, resulting in steady weight growth. The expanding belly will put a strain on the back and pelvic regions.

During pregnancy, nerve pain, particularly sciatic nerve pain, is persistent. As a result, pregnant women may experience acute discomfort in the concerned areas. The nerve inflammation is lessened by remedial massage treatment, which alleviates pain. Massage treatments are the most secure and natural method of pain control.

4. Helps in Maintaining Posture

Massage assists moms-to-be in maintaining appropriate posture and dealing with the changes brought on by the developing baby. It also helps to increase muscle tone and flexibility, allowing moms to carry greater weight.

Massage can thus help both the mother and the baby in better aligning themselves and preparing holistically for safe and straightforward delivery.

5. Reduces the Chance of Premature Birth

According to several research findings, remedial massage therapies positively impact the risk of premature birth.

6. Reduce the Baby’s Stress Hormones

Massage treatments help the mother and the baby. Massage treatment benefits the infant within the womb because it helps balance hormone levels. According to clinical studies, infants delivered to moms who received massage treatment had lower cortisol levels and improved neonatal outcomes. Remedial massage can also help infants grow weight.

7. Helps Pregnant Women Sleep Better

Melatonin hormone and serotonin compounds are responsible for human sleep quality. Massage therapy will activate these hormones and control their production. This aids pregnant ladies in achieving healthier sleeping patterns.

Because of the many health benefits of remedial massage therapy sessions, it is a good idea to schedule such sessions during pregnancy. But once you have decided, you need to find the best place for therapy.

Healing massage can be performed at home or in a massage parlour. Whatever the case, it is critical to find the ideal therapist. The therapist must have extensive expertise and a proven track record. The therapist must be fully informed of the patient’s medical problems.

Tips For a Successful Remedial Massage

• The pregnant woman should not have any serious health problems. In case of serious health conditions, and if the patient is under medication or bed rest, they should refrain from these therapies.
• Certain oils are not recommended as they can induce uterus contractions. This may lead to further complications. If the therapist uses aromatic oils such as rosemary, oregano, thyme, sage, etc., one should ensure the patient is not allergic to such oils.
• The body of a pregnant woman is sensitive in certain places. Parts of the body, such as the wrist and ankle, have special pressure points. Activation of these pressure points can cause contraction of the uterus. Therefore, these points should be avoided.
• During the massage, the therapist should not put pressure on the belly. The pregnant woman can opt for a side-lying position with belly support.
• The therapy should be discontinued if the patient feels discomfort or overheating sensations during the massage session.
• Pregnant women with the risk of miscarriage, diabetes, high blood pressure etc., should avoid taking remedial massage therapies.
• Massage therapy should be avoided if you have skin infections, wounds or eczema.
• If you are opting for a massage centre, choose a hygienic one. The massage place must have the proper equipment for performing therapies. During pregnancy, the body is sensitive enough to catch infections so it’s best to avoid any possible risk.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is a beautiful time, but it also has its downsides. Fortunately, massage treatment is a safe and effective way to relieve these symptoms without using over-the-counter medications. Properly performed, curative massage in pregnancy is a natural treatment without side effects. So get a recommendation from your doctor and choose the best therapist. With proper care and preparation, you can have a pleasant pregnancy.