We all know that massage can improve overall health and wellbeing at all stages of life. However, more studies are showing just how beneficial it is for women going through menopause. Today we will explore some of the clinical studies and their findings.
Peri-Menopause/Menopause
Peri-menopause is the first stage of menopause. This is the time of hormonal changes, where symptoms may occur and menstruation is irregular. Menopause refers to the time after which 12 months has passed without a period.
Common symptoms for this time include:
- Irregular periods or skipping periods
- Periods that are heavier or lighter than usual
- Hot flashes (a sudden feeling of warmth that spreads across your body)
- Vaginal dryness
- Urinary urgency
- Sleep problems
- Changes in mood like irritability, depression or mood swings
Fortunately, alternative therapies are becoming more popular for alleviating symptoms. For example, there are numerous studies that show a strong link between a well-functioning lymphatic system and a reduction in symptoms.
A 2017 study in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science explored the effects of lymphatic drainage on women experiencing typical menopausal symptoms including water retention, mood swings, insomnia and fatigue. It found that after a single lymphatic massage the stress-related hormones cortisol and DHEA were significantly reduced with positive mental and physical effects being reported by participants.
Other benefits of lymphatic drainage for menopausal women can include:
- Improved circulation
- Enhanced quality of sleep
- Reduced fatigue
- Heightened mental alertness
- Increased joint mobility and flexibility
- Promotes healing of soft tissue injuries
- Stimulation of the lymphatic system
- Massage can also lower blood pressure and body temperature which may help with reducing symptoms such as hot flushes and foggy head.
Relaxation and Swedish massages are also reported to improve stress levels, sleep quality and overall mental health. Our team can incorporate a range of techniques into your treatment plan for best results.
Post-Menopause
There have also been studies into the benefits of massage for postmenopausal insomnia. Insomnia is highly prevalent and affects between 28% and 63% of postmenopausal women.
Through acting on the somatic, autonomic and central nervous system, massage promotes improved visceral functioning and re-establishes homeostasis. A study tested this using volunteers who were submitted to sixteen one-hour sessions of massage twice weekly and evaluated on psychological and physiological parameters.
The Sleep Diary showed that all of the participants fell asleep more rapidly, presented a gradual improvement in quality of sleep and awoke feeling better. However, a follow-up survey 12 months later revealed that while some participants had improved sleep during the massage treatment period, their insomnia returned. This is why regular treatment is recommended by our team for ongoing results.
Book yours appointment now!
If you are going through the stages of menopause, speak to the Massage One team about the best treatment plan for you! Book here.
