Pregnancy massage, otherwise known as prenatal massage, has been proven to offer numerous physical and emotional benefits. The body makes some dramatic changes in a very short time. These include weight gain, postural changes and an influx of hormones. So it’s not surprising that most pregnant women get a few aches and pains along with general feelings of stress and fatigue. Pregnancy massage can help to relieve all of this and more. This can help you to get a good night’s sleep when you need it most.
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Pregnancy Massage For Lower Back Pain
As a massage therapist, one of the most common complaints during pregnancy I hear is lower back pain or sciatica. This is due to your growing baby affecting your centre of gravity, leading to muscular strain and discomfort. This puts pressure on muscles that are having to work in a way they weren’t really designed for. The result is lower back pain which can lead to pressure on the sciatic nerve that runs down your leg. This is known as sciatica and is especially likely if you already had lower back issues to begin with.
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Pregnancy Massage For Upper Back And Shoulder Pain
Although upper back and shoulder pain can occur during pregnancy, they are less likely to be from postural issues. Instead the general stress and anxiety of aches and pains, your changing body and increasingly interrupted sleep are probably the cause. If left untreated this can lead to headaches and even migraines. And the cause is tension in the muscles of your shoulders and neck extends across your scalp and forehead.
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Pregnancy Massage For Hormone Regulation
Pregnancy causes changes in the release of many hormones, notably one called Relaxin(1). This hormone is responsible for relaxing your muscles so that you are flexible enough for giving birth. But it can also cause pain in some or all of your joints. Massage increases circulation and has an overall anti-inflammatory effect that can help to reduce the discomfort.
Pregnancy massage also lower stress hormones such as cortisol which commonly rise during pregnancy. This can help reduce anxiety and depression, improve mood and increase sleep quality. It also stimulates the release of serotonin and endorphins which promote an overall feeling of relaxation and wellbeing.
Other Benefits Of Pregnancy Massage
Increases Blood Flow – Blood volume can increase up to 60% during pregnancy and massage improves blood flow back to the heart. It also increases blood flow to the uterus and placenta.
Removes Toxins – Increased blood flow from massage provides more nutrients to mother and baby. It also stimulates the lymphatic system which helps to remove toxins from the body.
Helps Ease Many Common Issues – Stiffness, tension, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, heartburn, acid reflux, varicose veins, hip pain, constipation, IBS and more.(2)
Important
If you are in any doubt, please check with your doctor before you book a pregnancy massage. Especially if you are experiencing any complications.
Book A Mobile Massage
If you’re looking for a massage in york and would like to book please contact me on 07713 250352 or email david@massageinyork.co.uk. Includes sports massage, deep tissue massage and Swedish massage. For more information on booking click here