08 Apr What Are the Benefits of Vibrational Massage?
A vibrational massage is the type of massage that employs vibrations as a part of its therapy. Performed either by a massage therapist or a massaging machine such as a robotic massage chair, a vibrational massage can either be a whole-body massage or a localized massage. However and wherever performed, one is true of a ‘vibration massage’ it has numerous health benefits.
Traditional vs. Robotic Vibration Massage
A traditional vibration massage consists of a regular massage that is either followed by or combined with vibrations. Generally, a massage therapist would first massage a client and then use a handheld vibrating device to restrict vibrations to a certain body area. For instance, for runners who suffer from tense and achy calf and thigh muscles, a localized vibrational massage can help tremendously by making the muscles contract and relax. Then, there are whole-body vibration massages that can be performed with the same or similar vibrating devices. But in this case, a therapist uses a device on the client’s entire body, going up and down, front and back and even sideways.
When it comes to massage chairs and massage cushions that employ vibrations as a part of their massaging techniques, the results are similar. However, some would argue that a whole-body vibration massage performed by a machine provides a more comfortable and relaxing massage experience. This is because a massage chair or a massage pad is able to produce evenly distributed vibrations all throughout the body, promoting complete relaxation and rejuvenation. And similarly to therapists, the massaging machines are able to provide localized vibrational massages as well. For instance, some of the best foot massagers for runners employ vibrations that target specific leg or foot parts.
The Benefits
When vibrations are transmitted through the body, either by a therapist using a vibrating device, or by a massage chair/pad, the muscles start contracting and relaxing, making the whole body produce osteoblasts, which are cells that synthesize bones. In other words, along with relaxing the muscles and promoting blood circulation, vibrational massages actually increase bone density. This is probably one of the most important benefits of vibration massages, regardless of the technique used.
Besides this, a vibrational massage is able to provide a relief from pain, no matter its root cause. One study conducted by researchers at the Ohio State University Medical Center even suggests that the vibrational massage can be used as a means of pain relief that doesn’t involve medications. This is possible because vibrations create numbness akin to anesthesia in the painful area, while helping relax the tense muscles surrounding it. This is especially useful for joint and back pain, as well as general muscle pain.
Interestingly, a study that was published in NeuroRehabilitation suggests that vibration therapy may have significant benefits for people with Parkinson’s disease. Although short-term, these benefits may help reduce tremors and improve flexibility.
To sum it up, the benefits of vibrational massages are diverse and numerous. If received regularly, they can help you:
- Increase your bone density
- Decrease muscle, joint and back pain
- Relieve stress and reduce its negative effects on the body
- Boost digestive health
- Increase flexibility
- Improve circulation
- Promote relaxation.
Sources:
- What Are the Benefits of Vibrational Massage?, LIVESTRONG
- What Is Vibration Therapy?, Helathline
- The Benefits of Vibration Healing, verywell health
