How Much Massage Is Adequate For Neck Pain - Study Finds Out

Your neck pain has been around for more than a week and it is slowly beginning to become a cause of worry. Somehow you have managed to work throughout the week and now you can no longer tolerate this situation. You have heard from your friend that massage can work wonders for neck pain. But you still have niggling doubts: does it really work? And how much massage is necessary to attain positive results?

Now, the researchers at the Group Health Research Institute in the US have found out that massage of a particular duration is highly efficacious against neck pain.

The research

In a study published in the journal Annals of Family Medicine, researchers have looked at 228 participants between the age group 20 and 64. These people were then separated into six groups and given regulated massage for several weeks. The purpose of the study was to find out the correct duration of massage needed to attain the best possible result.

The findings

The researchers assessed the different groups on neck functioning and pain perception. It was discovered that people who got 1 hour of massage 3 times a week showed the most positive signs. This study further discovered that people who did get massage felt better compared to those who were not assigned any massage. The researchers concluded that people who get moderate massage were likely to experience improvements in neck function and reduction in pain sensation.

How massage helps reduce pain

The effectiveness of massage in addressing the problem of pain was known since the time of Hippocrates, the great Greek physician. In ancient times, massage was used to bring relief to injured soldier and overworked statesmen. Thus, it can be said that modern medical science is rediscovering and verifying the benefits of this ancient practice. Massage helps to bring relief from pain by temporarily increasing blood circulation around the affected bones and muscles. It also allows the muscles and ligaments to relax. This means that the affected muscle groups gain a fresh supply of nutrient-rich blood while in a relaxed state. This enormously helps the natural repairing and healing processes of the body.

Is massage an alternative to medicines?

Sadly, massage is not the panacea. If you are indeed suffering from neck pain, then you need to consult a pain specialist. Tell the doctor that you are thinking of getting massage. Let the doctor advice you on the type of massage. Research has shown that massage is most effective when it is used to compliment correct medication. Thus, you should see massage as an aid to health and as a way of speeding up recovery.

By Dr. Shabtab Khalid

Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

Note: Through the synergistic combination of Classical Homoeopathy, Ayurvedic-Unani Formulations and Internationally Acclaimed Advanced Physiotherapy, Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution aims to eradicate joint pain, counter the process of degeneration and promote bone health. The protocol is at once scientific, effective as well as safe. To avail treatment at Zilaxo, call on 1800 419 6607 (Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 98304 26607.

www.zilaxo.org