Massage therapy has many known amazing benefits as well as new perks that are being researched. Many people suffer from occasional bouts of digestive disorders or discomfort such as constipation, heartburn, nausea, or bloating. Many others suffer from digestive disorders that are chronic, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, or Crohn’s Disease.
Many of these diseases are accompanied by chronic pain and troublesome symptoms. Digestive orders often have periods where they lurk in the background mixed with periods of active symptoms. While massage therapy is not recommended during a flare-up of an inflammatory condition such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, it can help reduce the likelihood of an attack as part of good self-care. Massage therapy can also help reduce the anxiety, stress, and tension that can be part of these disease and may contribute to worsening flare-ups.
Here are the massage modalities that are used to help those with digestive disorders:
Swedish Massage
Long strokes and gentle kneading movements are applied to the surface muscles to help release muscle tension. This type of massage is known to help remove waste products from various tissues and improve circulation. Swedish massage may help reduce bloating, gas, and constipation by keeping the digestive tract moving. Gentle pressure on the abdominal muscles may help relieve trapped air.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage involves the therapist applying more pressure to the deeper muscles and connective tissues of the body. It focuses on releasing adhesion, or knots or scar tissue. It may be used alone or in conjunction with other massage techniques such as a Swedish massage. Some people find a deep tissue massage too uncomfortable but may be able to tolerate a little bit of deep tissue work. Deep tissue massage may also help to relieve cramping and bloating.
Trigger Point Massage
In trigger point massage, steady pressure is applied to targeted areas. This can help release abdominal muscle spasms and tightness, helping promote blood flow to the area to promote healing. This can help with constipation, cramping, and bloating that cause significant discomfort.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage in which the practitioner uses his or her body weight to apply pressure to acupressure points in your body in order to simultaneously adjust the flow of energy through the meridians in your body. This adjustment in energy flow can help the stalled digestive system to get moving again, bringing you relief from bothersome symptoms.
