Thai massage incorporates techniques that involve deep tissue pressure, as well as yoga-like stretching. It is scientifically proven to have benefits such as relief from joint pain and improved mobility.
1. Offers Pain Reduction
Research has proven that Thai massage can offer relief from pain for certain ailments. For example, the stretching of the body, which occurs during Thai massage, can be beneficial to those suffering from back pain.
One study evaluated the efficacy of Thai massages and joint mobilization, a manual therapy that allows passive movement of joints to increase motion range and alleviate discomfort.
The study showed that Thai massage was just as effective as joint mobilization for alleviating disability and pain in the short-term for those suffering from persistent lower back pain.
Another study examined the impact of Thai massages on the myofascial syndrome (MPS). The condition is defined by muscle pain that can be temporary or chronic. It can be both local and referred, which means that the pain can be located in a different area than the area from which it originates.
The study revealed that Thai massage could have positive effects on those who suffer from MPS and have complaints in their upper back area. Thai massage also reduced myofascial pain in the entire body.
2. Can Help Reduce Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can be a difficult issue that has multiple reasons and risk factors. But research has shown that Thai massage can help with some cases of chronic pain.
A study in 2024 found that Thai massage can ease the pain of people suffering from chronic pain for a period of 15 weeks. Further research is required to understand the mechanism behind this effect, and to determine the long-term potential effects on the long-term effects of Thai massage for chronic pain.
3. Could Improve Mental Health
Similar to other types of massage that are used, Thai massage can make people feel calmer and emotionally at peace.
Studies have found that it could also affect mental well-being. For instance, studies have discovered that Thai massages help ease depression, anxiety, and stress, and help improve sleep.
4. May Improve Muscle Function After Strokes
Thai massage can be helpful for those who have suffered from strokes. One example is a study that looked at the effectiveness of physical therapy versus Thai massage to treat patients who suffered a stroke.
The study concluded that Thai massage was as effective as physical therapy when it comes to alleviating muscle spasticity (muscle stiffness) and enhancing the overall function of muscles. Thai massage was able to enhance the health of the patients.
5. Could Help Relieve Urinary Tract Symptoms
Certain studies have demonstrated that Thai massage can help ease symptoms associated with certain urinary tract problems.
A study focused on urinary tract issues for older patients with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), which occurs when the prostate gets larger and causes urinary problems in the form of pressure, discomfort, and pain.
The study showed that Thai massage reduced symptoms, and it was comparable to a drug called Tamsulosin that is commonly prescribed for urinary tract problems due to prostate cancer.
What Distinguishes Thai Massage?
Thai massages are a classic type of massage therapy that has been used in Thailand for thousands of years.
It is believed that the practice originated in India in the days of Buddha, and it spread across Asia, which is where it developed into what is now known as Thai massage.
Thai massage is regarded as the most well-known alternative medicine that is practiced in Thailand. It is recognized and controlled under the supervision of the Thai government. Several studies have revealed evidence of obvious health and wellness benefits.
How Does Thai Massage Vary From Other Types Of Massage?
Thai massage has some similarities to Western methods of massage, like Swedish massage. For instance, the massage Therapist uses their hands to massage and press against the skin, and also to relax tight muscles.
Contrary to Western massages, Thai massage also involves stretching and manipulation of the body. This includes moving the body in yoga-like positions. Therapists also use their body weight in order to provide pressure therapeutically.
In addition, unlike Western massage, in which massages typically take place on a table, in Thai massage, the massage is performed on a mat placed on the floor.
In different forms that massage is performed, the individual who is treated may take off their clothing while they are massaged. In Thai massages, however, the client remains clothed.
What Are The Techniques Used?
Thai massages are based upon the notion that the body is composed of 10 major energy lines known as Sen lines. These lines are the way energy circulates and flows through the entire body. It is believed that if the flow of energy gets restricted, body discomfort or discomfort may result.
Thai massage is focused on releasing and opening energy from these energy lines by utilizing three primary methods:
- Deep pressure massage
- Manipulation of energy lines with the body’s actions
- The stretching of joints and muscles
What Happens During The Course Of A Thai Massage Session?
If you’re planning to have the first time to experience a Thai massage, the experience is likely to be different than an American-style massage.
Things to Wear
In a Thai massage, you’ll put on your clothes. You’ll likely be requested to wear loose, comfortable clothes like the ones you wear to yoga classes.
Where It Will Take Place
The massage will begin sitting on a mat laid flat on your stomach. Your massage practitioner will move across different areas of your body, gliding across the different energy paths (sen line) in your body.
Shoulders to Feet
The massage therapist will usually begin with your feet and work their way up each leg. The massage will continue to your shoulders, torso, hands, arms, and legs.
While the massage therapist works throughout your body, they’ll apply gentle pressure using their hands and the weight of their bodies. They’ll also move your body in yoga-like postures and stretch your joints and muscles.
Every Four Sides
The therapist might shift you to your left and right side, massaging both sides before turning you to your stomach. The therapist will repeat the massage of the shoulders to the feet.
The whole process generally takes around 90 minutes; however, it can take up to two hours.
Are There Any Risks To Beware Of?
The dangers of Thai massage have not been extensively examined. However, it is generally regarded as safe and is widely used in Thailand.
However, there have been a few instances where people had adverse reactions following or during a Thai massage.
One example is that a study from 2015 revealed that a patient suffered an intense heart attack following receiving the Thai massage. It’s not known whether the heart attack was directly triggered by the treatment.
The movements of Thai massage could trigger your heart to increase, which can cause cardiovascular problems. This is why certain experts suggest against a Thai massage if you suffer from an issue with your heart.
There’s also the possibility for the Thai massage to strain or pull muscles or cause spinal injuries, but it is unlikely in the event that the therapist does the massage in a safe manner. It isn’t certain what Thai massage could affect pregnant women or the fetus.
When Should a Doctor be Consulted?
It is important to consult with your doctor prior to getting a Thai massage, particularly when you’re suffering from health issues.
Be sure to locate a Thai massage practitioner who is certified and trained. You can inquire about the background of the therapist and experience, or ask a physician to recommend.
