Benefits Of Massage Therapy For Tension And Muscle Pain Linked To Ptsd

[Fraser46]

I have been seeing a massage therapists for a couple of sessions to try and relieve the muscle tension and pain that I experience in my back, neck and leg muscles. I have had some sessions of deep tissue massage and Swedish massage. I have a session booked for Hot stone massage next week. Has only found massage therapy a good way to deal with tension and muscle pain linked to PTSD?

 

[Meadowsweet]

Yes. I have a lot of problems attaching to my body. I've been sexually abused and as an adult hugs from partners meant having to have sex.

Before I'd ever had a massage, I trained in Swedish massage. So I experienced it first in a safe environment = not alone with anyone, and quite clinical with a teacher looking to make sure it's ok. And also, because I was learning it, I learned that touching in this way is related to the muscles in the body etc.

So I can see it as a safe form of touching. So yes, it's good for tension and muscle pain. And for me, it's also a form of touch that I find safe and nurturing.

 

[mamachick]

Massage has been the best thing for me, unfortunately I can no longer afford. Insurances should consider this treatment, not a luxary.

 

[Leah123]

Yes, since December I have been receiving monthly massages and I find them very helpful for getting a sense of what my body feels like with less stress. The massage helps me reset my stress level almost, lower it, though the feeling does not last too long, I believe it's helping me gradually return to a more calm equilibrium. Also, it's just a way to acknowledge that I need and deserve care and a way to receive tailored touch in an environment that is safe and where I am in charge. I have found it makes it much better to use the same therapist repeatedly, and that it's easier for me to relax with women. I did find once, though, that when I was already triggered, there was just too much stress for me to appreciate the massage and I felt uncomfortable instead, but it's typically not so bad.

 

[Philippa]

So nice to hear people speaking positively about the benefits of massage here. I read so many posts of people who, through no fault of their own and due to sexual abuse are unable and unwilling to allow safe touch to help them relax. I understand why, as it can and does stir up emotional stuff and can also trigger bad memories that need to surface in order to heal, but it's such a shame. As a massage therapist myself I know how much it can really help people, and being the person who helps put them in such a state of relaxation and calm, I find it truly rewarding work.

I also love receiving a massage, but of course it is important to find someone you feel really comfortable with. It's a very vulnerable state to be in and it requires trust. In my experience, more females find it harder to push themselves to actually book for a massage. Women seem to have a harder time feeling like they deserve any kind of self care, and will often put it off in fear of being perceived as selfish...which is a mindset I would very much like to see be thrown on the fire and replaced with something more realistic. It is not selfish to want to give yourself such a nurturing gift as a massage, and if you aren't able to give to yourself, then you won't have much to give to anyone else.

Unfortunately many women don't work this out until they have given more than they have and literally breakdown and make themselves sick. Many males don't have this issue though. They feel deserving of being pampered. Obviously males who have experienced sexual abuse will have similar issues with being touched, and no one should push themselves to do something they are not comfortable with, but human touch is such a necessary thing for greater mental health, that I wish for them to be able to one day overcome what stops them and allow themselves to receive caring touch in a safe environment, when they are ready.

 

[Fraser46]

I do find some relief from massage therapy but it can depend on how I am coping emotionally/psychologically. If I am having a rough time, the therapist says she can feel the tension. Although if I am having a good spell, the massage is more effective. I went for regularly massages before I was attacked and developed PTSD, so I completely trust the therapist. Although at times, I am very nervous and tense about going to the sessions, I do feel some benefits.

 

[Leah123]

if you aren't able to give to yourself, then you won't have much to give to anyone else.

Thanks for the affirming post! Neat that you give massage therapy. My therapist (not massage therapist but psychotherapist) says that "If Mamma's not happy, no one's happy!" and I really find that true. I didn't like the idea of how indulgent it seemed to take time for myself or to spend money on therapy, but... I do find after several months, I think my family's better for it. Between massage, taking more breaks, therapy, etc. I am kinder to them, a little more focused, a little more open. I'm glad for it. :)

 

[Philippa]

Wonderful. That is what makes me feel like it's worth continuing in my profession, when I read posts like this or hear feedback similar. If I can relax someone, so they take that back into their home or community and don't take their stress out on someone else, then I've done my job. If' I can prevent someone abusing their spouse of kids due to pent up stuff that needs to be released, then I've helped in some way.

 

[Britt.f7]

My sister use to go to a chiropractor and now she goes to a massage therapist. She does it as often as she is able to and finds it really beneficial.

Unfortunately, I have a thing about being touched. I have had a couple times where I felt safe, but I think it would be very hard for me to make an appointment. I feel uncomfortable. I think, if you can do it, go for it!

 

[TeaLeaf]

I have had massage done by a massage therapist that specializes in helping survivors of abuse. She is trained in somatic experiencing and has really helped me feel safer in my body and more connected to how I feel physically when I am triggered so I can process things. I can't recommend it enough.

 

[Definitely..maybe]

I was lucky enough lately to stumble upon a groupon for massage and chiropractic services, after talking to them I learned that they do take most insurances and took mine! I was so beyond excited. So an hour long massage + chiropractic service + spinal decompression all comes to $29 for an hour and 45 mins! Plus when they heard about me battering PTSD and being a student who tries to work full time they offered to do two a week for the price of one. I'm ecstatic, little victories! It's my treat after EMDR sessions.

So double check what insurance could possibly cover and check groupon!

 

[KP the nut]

I must look at this. I am in a lot of pain from when I broke my neck. It stiffens and I struggle to turn my neck.