When should have a massage?

The question "when should I get a massage" is very common here at Athens Massage Center. There are 2 answers, the short one is that you can massage as often as you like. 

The most complete answer is that the frequency of massage depends on your individual needs, the type of massage you choose, and your goals.

Massage once a week or every 15 days would be ideal but not realistic for every person. 

In many people this frequency sounds high but you must remember that:

a) The effects of the massage work cumulatively. As you repeat massage sessions, the benefits increase and strengthen over time. So if the second is delayed then we will have lost the benefit of the first.

b) A chronic problem is not solved in one visit. It took a long time for the problem to develop and it stands to reason that just one hour of massage will not save the situation.

Types of massage and ideal frequency

There are generally no standard guidelines for the number of massages you can have, but a massage therapist or your doctor can suggest a frequency of treatments that will work best for your needs. For example:

Massages to treat an injury are more common, compared to a treatment or relaxation massage.

The frequency and duration of the massage will depend on the type of massage and the area you want to target. Let's look at each type:

How often should I have a Lymphatic massage

Lymphatic massage is used to drain the lymph nodes after some surgery and is well known for its many benefits on the body. It can also be used for cosmetic purposes such as for example the treatment of cellulite and general improvement of the skin.

You may need this massage daily at first (especially after surgery), but over time, you can do it two or three times a week.

Facial lymphatic massage

If you are going to do lymphatic massage for cosmetic purposes such as to treat cellulite or facial lymphatic massage to strengthen and regenerate the skin of the face then you should do it every two weeks or once a month. But if you have swelling, stretch marks, or other skin disorders, you may need to apply it more often. 

How often should I have Sports Massage

Sports massage, also known as Deep Tissue Massage, is a massage method primarily used to treat problems related to the musculoskeletal system, such as sports injuries.

The frequency of the sports massage depends on the reasons for use, which are: 

a) the treatment of pain

b) sports performance improvement and recovery

Pain management

If massage is to be used to relieve pain from an injury, it is likely to be used once or twice a week. After some time, the frequency will be reduced to one session a week or every second depending on the opinion of the therapist.

For chronic conditions, one massage treatment per week is recommended depending on how your body responds. If the pain returns in a few days, then you should definitely see your massage therapist again.

Sports performance improvement/ recovery

Sports massage is very common when training for an event such as a marathon or other intense sporting activity. Weekly massage or can help you get in the right shape and help speed up muscle recovery.

This massage is used before the competition as a warm-up of the muscles helping to prevent injuries while at the same time allowing flexibility to increase performance. It is also carried out after the end of the sport, helping the muscles to recover faster. Post-exercise soreness/stiffness will be greatly reduced by restoring blood flow to tight muscles.

It takes 48 hours for the system to balance after a deep massage, so a gap of at least two days between massages is ideal.

So the frequency of sports massage it depends on the training program, however regular massage can help maintain range of motion, flexibility and muscle health.

Είναι πολύ πιθανό να νιώσετε pain after massage και πιο συγκεκριμένα μετά από 24 ώρες αλλά αυτό είναι απολύτως φυσιολογικό κατά την αθλητική μάλαξη.

How often should I have swedish massage

Swedish massage is known as classic or full body massage. Most people choose it as a way to relax and rejuvenate. So the frequency ranges from a few times a month to a few times a year. Some prefer to do Swedish massage when they feel tension, pain or stress, while others incorporate it into their routine as a way to pamper and relax.

The frequency changes according to the situation and the point of need of the person

Massage can be an effective method for relieving specific painful symptoms or reducing stress and anxiety. It is also useful during pregnancy. The frequency you need may vary depending on your needs. For example: 

On the back

If you have back pain, 30 minutes of sports massage for 10 days can give you relief. 

In the middle of the back

If the problem is in the middle, then the treatment can last up to 12 weeks. For this condition, the specially designed program, massage for lower back pain is used.

On the neck

If your neck hurts then therapeutic neck massage is what you will need to heal. Studies have shown that this massage has maximum benefit when done for 60 minutes every two or three times a week.

During pregnancy

A 2010 study found that regular, light massage at home - mobile massage performed by a partner or a massage therapist can contribute to a healthy state of mind and reduce leg and back pain.

A weekly 30-minute massage from a professional at home can be enough to reduce anxiety and stress as well as the physical symptoms of pregnancy.

Precautions

Massage may not always be the safest activity if you have certain medical conditions. You should be careful if you have:

• broken or broken bones
• a bleeding disorder
• open wounds or burns
• osteoporosis
• other serious medical conditions

See in detail: Which body parts or areas we do not massage and when it is prohibited

Ask a therapist or your doctor about when you should do it!

There are many types of massage and they have different frequencies, which largely depend on your individual health needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for relaxation and wellness, or dealing with specific health issues, the bottom line is to understand your body. 

Consult a professional massage therapist to determine the best frequency and type of massage that will work for you. Ultimately, massage is a valuable practice that can enhance your health and quality of life if applied correctly and according to your personal needs.