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massage Menopause self care

Massage & Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause

Musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause refers to a cluster of joint and muscle symptoms that occur in association with hormonal changes during menopause. These symptoms can significantly affect quality of life and may be mistaken for other conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia.

Key Features of Musculoskeletal Syndrome in Menopause:
  • Joint pain and stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
  • Muscle aches (myalgia).
  • Back, neck, and shoulder pain.
  • Generalized fatigue and reduced flexibility.
  • Increased risk of osteoporosis and reduced bone density, contributing to pain or injury.

These symptoms are largely due to the decline in estrogen levels, which affects:

  • Joint lubrication
  • Collagen production (important for tendons, ligaments, and cartilage)
  • Inflammation regulation

How Massage Therapy Can Help:

Massage therapy offers both physical and psychological benefits that can greatly support menopausal women with musculoskeletal symptoms:

1. Pain Relief

Massage helps release tension in muscles and joints, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the release of endorphins—natural painkillers.

2. Improved Circulation

Better blood flow promotes healing, reduces muscle fatigue, and improves the delivery of nutrients to joints and tissues.

3. Enhanced Flexibility and Range of Motion

Techniques like myofascial release and passive stretching improve mobility and reduce stiffness.

4. Reduced Stress and Cortisol Levels

Menopause can increase anxiety and stress. Massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering cortisol and supporting hormonal balance.

5. Improved Sleep

Better sleep supports muscle recovery and reduces pain perception. Massage helps reset circadian rhythms and ease insomnia common during menopause.

Contact Emma Duncan, LMT to discuss how massage therapy can help you feel better!

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massage Massage Tips Sports Massage

Pickleball Injury? Massage Therapy Can Help

Welcome to the most addictive sport on this side of the universe. For a sport that’s so new, it’s got a surprising number of players hopping, limping, and even groaning in pain.

Pickleball isn’t just fun and games; it’s causing some real aches out there. But before you hang up your paddle, let’s dive into what’s going on and how massage therapy, can help prevent and treat pickleball-related injuries.

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massage Massage Tips self care

Older Adults Relieve Pain & Stress with Massage

Massage therapy has been used for thousands of years as a natural way to reduce pain, promote relaxation, and improve overall well-being. As we age, our bodies undergo significant changes, leading to increased muscle stiffness, joint pain, and other health issues. Massage therapy for older adults can be a valuable tool to manage these age-related conditions and improve their quality of life.

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massage self care

Headache Types & How To Relieve Pain

The throbbing pain of a headache can be so debilitating. Headaches can occur for a variety of reasons so let’s explore the different types of headaches, how to prevent them, and how massage therapy can help relieve them.

Categories
massage self care

Recover from Travel with Massage Therapy

Traveling is one of the most exciting experiences we can have in life. It exposes us to new cultures, landscapes, and ways of life. However, the journey to and from our destination can be physically exhausting, leaving our bodies feeling sore and tired.

That’s why getting a massage after traveling can be one of the best things you can do for your body.