Vibration therapy is a common technique used by both massage therapists and electric massagers. Most massage chairs and massage cushions include a vibrational massage setting that can either be for a whole body massage or just localized. The technique involves a shaking and jostling movement. It improves body muscle health and increases the flexibility of movement. So here is how it works and the benefits of vibration therapy.
How It Works?
As we’ve mentioned already vibration therapy can be of two types: targeting the whole body or a specific area.
During whole-body vibration treatment, the client has to stand, sit or lay down on a machine with the vibrating platform. For localized massage, the therapist can either use a vibrating device or perform it with hands. So, for example, you can place a vibrating device to your calves or thigh muscles and it will transmit the vibrations to your body. Also, the therapist can use the palm or the heel of the hand and while maintaining continuous contact with the body, carry out sliding movements over your skin.
The vibrations can have different direction and intensity. You can either choose the settings on your massage chair or ask your therapist what you’d prefer. Some devices only do vertical movements, while others can go up and down and sideways.
Vibration Therapy Benefits
Relaxation. The vibration movement relaxes your muscles, calming your body and mind. It produces happy hormones endorphins and pain reducing neurochemicals. The vibration stimulates blood flow, loosening tight muscles and promoting a body-wide sense of relaxation. The vibrations can also stimulate sensory receptors, soothing the nervous system. The pleasant tingling sensation enhances your relaxation.
Pain relief. Vibrational massage therapy helps you combat aches and pains in your body without using medication. During the massage your body releases pain-reducing chemicals, such as encephalin. It also creates a numbness in the painful area and with this, it dulls the sensation of pain. Vibration massage also helps against painful stiffness around joints. It increases blood circulation, oxygen and nutrients to the joints, aiding in their healing and increasing their flexibility and range of motion.
Muscle strength. A few studies have shown that vibrational therapy can be beneficial for stimulating bone formation and bone strength. It also has a positive effect on muscle strength. Your muscles are forced to hold a certain position on the vibration plate for a particular length of time. This stimulates muscle activity and enables contraction of muscle motor points. So regular massage will increase muscle mass and strength. Moreover, this will increase muscle endurance, so you’ll have easier recovery after physical training.
Stimulates circulation. The rhythmic contractions of vibrational massage therapy encourage blood circulation. It stimulates the production of both red and white blood cells. The enhanced circulation also improves the metabolic system, promoting quicker removal of waste products from the body.
Increases flexibility. Maintaining good muscle flexibility is important for keeping a full range of motion. The vibrations increase oxygen blood flow to joints and muscles, aiding in improving their flexibility.
Aids in losing weight. Massage therapy, including vibrational massage, is known to be an effective way of losing weight. It works by increasing your metabolic rate and strengthening your muscles, toning your body and aiding in burning fat. However, to see real weight loss results, massage needs to be combined with a good healthy diet and physical activity.
Risks of Vibration Therapy
Vibrational therapy may not be appropriate in some instances, particularly if the person has any pains or injuries. It can be unsafe for people with certain health conditions due to the intensity of the therapy. A high intensity of the massage can worsen these conditions. So it’s best to consult your doctor before choosing vibrational massage if you have any of the following:
- Lumbar injuries.
- If you are taking blood thinning medication.
- If you’re pregnant.
- If you have chronic back pain or any injuries.
- If you have cardiovascular disease.
- If you have an advanced stage of diabetes.
So as you can see there are quite a few vibration therapy benefits, from whole body relaxation and pain reduction to strengthened muscles and improved posture. Keep in mind that there are a few contraindications for the massage but otherwise, it’s a great way to tone your body and make yourself feel healthier.