Massage Mimics the Effect of Pain Killers at Molecular Level

Massages are good for you: a shoulder rub mimics the effect of pain-killers at the molecular level. Massage also promotes the growth of new mitochondria, the energy-generating "power plants" in cells, according to scientists at McMaster University in Canada.
A soothing massage does more than relax aching muscles, scientists have discovered.

It reduces inflammation at the molecular level, mimicking the action of pain killing drugs, research suggests.

Massage also promotes the growth of new mitochondria, the energy-generating 'powerplants' in cells. Read more

12 Massage Styles to Help You Conquer Tension

We know a massage feels good, but it can have a host of therapeutic benefits, too.

We all need to be kneaded. And in this time of economic stress, taking the time for self care is of utmost importance. Whether you choose to give your shoulders some shiatsu love or treat your feet to the pressure and release of reflexology, read through our list of hands-on bodywork techniques and figure out which one is for you. Cheaper--and faster--than a vacation, body work can quickly release your tension and leave you calm and refreshed. Indulge your muscles--they will be thankful! Read more

Five Surprising Benefits of Massage

We know a massage feels good, but it can have a host of therapeutic advantages, too.

The newest cure-all may be an ancient one: simple touch. The Chinese have been using massage for all kinds of medical conditions for centuries. Now, Western research is confirming that massage isn't just for muscle pain. One of the most surprising findings: massage may help premature babies gain weight. When Tiffany Field, a professor of pediatrics, became a new mother, she massaged her premature infant daughter and was so impressed with the results she later founded the Touch Research Institute (TRI) at the University of Miami School of Medicine. Massage, it turns out, may boost immunity and help people with a range of conditions from premenstrual syndrome to high blood pressure. It also seems to help soothe pain from arthritis, burns and even surgery. Here are five surprising facts about massage from the research findings at TRI and elsewhere that you can put to use: Read more

How Massage Therapy Can Help Your Migraines

A migraine headache is not only painful and distressing, but can also disrupt your life if it stops you from working or going about your daily routine. It can be difficult to focus or concentrate when you have a headache; relief from the pain is sometimes the only thing you can think about. Steve Ross and Olivia Rosewood explain how massage therapy can be used to relieve the pain of migraine headaches.

I have been a massage therapist for 15 years, and I love to help dissolve pain. I believe that joy, freedom, strength, and mobility are normal states of being for humans -- anything that deviates is the body shouting for help. Pain, vomiting, dizziness -- not to mention irritability -- are just a few of the symptoms I've heard about from clients who suffer from migraines. There is no worse feeling in the world than not knowing how to help. Dreaded, unpredictable, and even demobilizing in some cases, I felt so relieved when a study was published with real findings on the effect that massage can have on relieving migraines. Read more