Remedial massage and pregnancy: What you need to know
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it often brings physical discomforts and emotional stresses as the body changes to support new life. Remedial massage offers a gentle, effective way to alleviate pregnancy aches and enhance well-being. In this comprehensive guide to pregnancy remedial massage, we'll explore how this therapeutic touch can nurture both mother and baby.
What exactly is remedial massage?
Remedial massage is a therapeutic practice that focuses on treating musculoskeletal issues and promoting overall physical well-being. It involves a range of techniques, including deep tissue massage, stretching and trigger point therapy, tailored to address specific areas of discomfort and tension within the body. During pregnancy, remedial massage therapists will adapt these techniques to cater to each woman's unique needs.
Unlike a general relaxation massage, remedial massage aims to identify and alleviate the root causes of pain and dysfunction, incorporating a holistic approach that considers posture, movement patterns and lifestyle factors. By enhancing blood flow, reducing muscle tension and encouraging the body's natural healing processes, remedial massage can effectively relieve pain, improve mobility and restore balance to the body.
Is remedial massage safe during pregnancy?
Remedial massage can be a crucial part of an expectant mother’s pregnancy care journey. It’s safe and beneficial during pregnancy when performed by a trained and experienced therapist who understands the specific needs of pregnant women. It is essential to seek out therapists who have expertise in pregnancy massage and are aware of the anatomical and physiological changes that occur during pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new therapeutic treatment during pregnancy to ensure it aligns with your individual health needs.
Do I need to tell my massage therapist I'm pregnant?
It’s crucial to inform your massage therapist if you are pregnant, especially if you are seeking remedial massage or any type of bodywork. Pregnancy brings significant physiological changes that affect how massage should be administered. A trained therapist needs to adapt their techniques and positioning to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the session.
What are the precautions for massage during pregnancy?
Remedial massage therapists with prenatal massage experience will implement several precautions to ensure the safety and comfort of pregnant clients:
Client assessment: Before the massage, the therapist will get to know you. When you book your remedial massage at Papaya Clinic, we’ll send you a form so you can tell us anything you’d like us to know before the session. The more you share about your concerns, pains, background and pregnancy status, the more we can tailor the session to your unique needs.
Positioning: The therapist may use supportive cushions or pillows to help the client comfortably lie on their side or in a semi-reclined position. This helps alleviate pressure on the abdomen and ensures optimal comfort throughout the session.
Avoiding certain areas: The therapist will avoid applying deep pressure to areas such as the abdomen. Gentle, soothing strokes and light pressure techniques are typically used to ensure safety and avoid discomfort.
Monitoring client feedback: Throughout the massage, the therapist will regularly check in with the client to ensure they are comfortable and adjust techniques as needed based on feedback.
A common myth is that massage therapists and physios modify or avoid techniques like deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy for pregnant clients. In reality, we safely use these techniques for expectant mothers every day.
What are the benefits of remedial massage during pregnancy?
Pregnancy remedial massage offers several benefits for expectant mothers:
Pain relief: Remedial massage helps alleviate common pregnancy discomforts such as lower back pain, sciatica, pelvic pain and leg cramps by targeting tense muscles.
Stress reduction: Pregnancy can be emotionally taxing, and remedial massage promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety levels and enhances overall mood through the release of endorphins.
Improved sleep: By reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation, remedial massage can help improve sleep quality, which is often disrupted during pregnancy.
Enhanced circulation: Massage techniques increase blood and lymphatic circulation, which can reduce swelling in the hands and feet and promote better overall circulation for both the mother and baby.
Preparation for labour: Pregnancy massage studies suggest that regular prenatal massage may help prepare the body for childbirth by promoting muscle relaxation and flexibility in the pelvic area.
Supports posture: As the body changes during pregnancy, remedial massage can help maintain better posture by addressing muscular imbalances and tension.
Emotional support: Remedial massage provides a nurturing touch that can enhance the mother's emotional well-being and connection with her changing body and baby.
What stage of pregnancy can you get a massage?
You can generally get a remedial massage throughout all stages of pregnancy, from the first trimester through to the third trimester and even during the postpartum period. Your trusted massage therapist will make adaptations as your pregnancy progresses. There are many benefits of late-stage pregnancy massage, so don’t feel like you’re too late!
How often can you get a remedial massage when pregnant?
How often you get a remedial massage during pregnancy can vary depending on individual needs and circumstances. Generally, it's recommended to consult with your healthcare provider and your massage therapist to determine the most suitable schedule based on your specific pregnancy and health status.
If you are experiencing significant discomforts such as back pain, sciatica or muscle tension, you may benefit from more frequent massages. Some women find relief with weekly sessions or every other week. For general maintenance and relaxation purposes, you might choose to schedule massages less frequently, such as once a month.
Keep in mind that your own comfort level and response to remedial massage therapy services can influence how often you choose to receive treatments. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly. Your remedial massage therapist, especially one experienced in prenatal massage, can also offer recommendations based on their assessment of your needs and how your body responds to treatment.
Remedial massage at an integrated health clinic
At Papaya Clinic, we take an integrated and holistic approach to women’s health services. If needed, our remedial massage therapist will refer you to our women’s health physio, naturopath or other healthcare professionals, making your treatment part of a holistic plan. By integrating massage therapy with other holistic treatments such as physiotherapy, nutritional guidance, and emotional support services, integrated women’s health clinics provide a well-rounded approach to promoting maternal health and well-being.
No matter what you visit us for, every session at Papaya Clinic factors in your whole body - inside and out - and is tailored to individual needs. If you’re looking for pregnancy remedial massage in Sydney, book an appointment at Papaya Clinic today.
