Massage Therapy for Stress Relief and Much More
Experts describe massage tips you can try on yourself to ease headaches, back pain, and to help you relax.
By Susan Seliger
WebMD Feature
WebMD Feature
Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD
Few experiences rival a full-body massage for stress relief. Word on the health benefits of massage therapy for stress relief has spread. In 2006, 39 million Americans — one in six adults — had at least one massage, according to a nationwide survey by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA).
“Americans are looking to massage for much more than just relaxation,” says Mary Beth Braun, President of the AMTA. “Massage therapy can be effective for a variety of conditions, including arthritis, lower back pain, insomnia, headaches, anxiety, circulatory problems, and recovery from a sports injury.