4 Benefits of Shoulder and Neck Massage

The function of massage therapy is not just to relax. Here are 4 major therapeutic benefits of neck and shoulder massage, which can reduce muscle tension and relieve daily stress.

In daily life, we subconsciously exert pressure on our bodies. Signing checks, clicking on computer mice, driving, and even using mobile phones can cause tension and stiffness in the neck and shoulder muscles.

Parents often feel neck and shoulder pain while holding their children. Postpartum mothers are particularly prone to injury because hormonal changes during pregnancy cause ligaments and joints to relax. This repetitive strain injury may worsen and lead to lazy posture, putting more pressure on the neck, shoulders, and back.

Applying pressure to the muscles around the neck and shoulders can help reduce muscle tension and relieve daily stress. The function of massage therapy is not just to relax. Here are 4 therapeutic benefits of neck and shoulder massage:

1. Relieve muscle soreness
Massaging sore areas of the body can promote blood flow and increase oxygen levels, helping to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Massage can release endorphins - an amino acid that can serve as a natural painkiller for the human body. After massage, due to the removal of accumulated lactic acid that causes muscle stiffness, your range of motion will also be improved.

2. Helps alleviate migraines and eye fatigue
Massage is a natural alternative method that has no side effects and helps alleviate headaches and migraines. It helps alleviate muscle spasms, promote blood circulation, and thus reduce head pressure. A study found that patients with persistent migraine significantly reduced their headache pain through regular neck, shoulder, and head massage therapy.

3. Improve positive emotions
Massage is not only beneficial for your body, but also improves your mood! We have anxiety symptoms in our shoulders and neck. Research has found that participants receiving massage therapy have increased levels of serotonin and dopamine. When our body relaxes, our nervous system also relaxes. Our heart rate will decrease, and our breathing will also decrease. Massage is an effective way to readjust our body. Some companies provide regular massage therapy for their employees as it can alleviate their stress and improve overall job satisfaction.

4. Enhance the immune system
Regular massage can increase white blood cells and lymphocytes, which are crucial for resisting diseases and infections. It activates the lymphatic system, responsible for filtering and removing harmful substances from the body, thereby making your body strong and healthy.