The Unique Role of Massage Therapists in Pain Reduction

Based on the evidence, massage therapy can provide significant improvement for pain, anxiety and health-related quality of life for those looking to manage their pain. Pain affects life, quality of life, and work. In many people, pain medications can have unpleasant side effects.

Considering the number of people reporting pain and its effects on quality of life, and with pain medications not necessarily being the best option, people have become interested in examining other methods of pain relief.

Pain is multi-dimensional and may be better addressed through an integrative approach. Massage therapy is commonly used among people seeking pain management and research has generally supported its use.

It is not unusual for some chronic pain to be related to musculoskeletal restrictions and/or immobility. In cases where mobility restrictions are a source of chronic pain, massage can be beneficial as an adjunct to a person's management

Massage therapists are in a great position to help people reduce their pain and enjoy better quality of life, even when pain is present.

Studying pain science is like studying anatomy and physiology—it helps us understand how to adapt our work to be more effective.