Massage: Just What the Doctor Ordered?

If you suffer from chronic neck pain, I have some good news for you. The National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine has found evidence that therapeutic massage can decrease chronic neck pain.

While this may not seem like news to you, it is one of the first studies that has shown a significant association between massage and pain control. Many people who have been seeing a massage therapist all along may know that it helps their pain, but having a study to back it up confirms that there are therapeutic benefits to this type of treatment. If you never felt like you had a reason to get a massage, well here's your chance!

If you have never had a massage for your chronic pain, here are a few things to consider:

Be sure your massage therapist is an LMT, or a licensed massage therapist. LMT's have extensive anatomical training, and are licensed and certified only after passing a board exam.

Before your appointment, tell your LMT about your medical history. A good LMT will ask if you have any medical conditions, so be sure to include your chronic neck pain, even if you do not have a concerete diagnosis.

Don't be afraid to speak up! If the pressure is too intense, tell your LMT. She will lighten up to make you more comfortable. Most LMT's will ask how you are doing during your massage, but don't be afraid to volunteer this information as needed.

Finally, relax and enjoy yourself. Sure, this is therapy for your neck. But it's also a spa treatment! Why not enjoy the pampering?

Like many complimentary medical treatments, many health insurance providers do not cover massage under your medical plan. But, sometimes the benefits outweigh the cost of treatment. The way I see it, getting a massage is a wonderful way to relax, which can help you cope with chronic pain. Now we know neck massage can actually help reduce your neck pain. Plus, you are doing something enjoyable for yourself. To me, that's a win-win situation.