Massage is one of a range of natural approaches to treat an array of illness and disease; including endometriosis. Natural therapies are increasingly appreciated for their holistic approach and lack of side effects, and are now utilised alongside or in place of traditional medication.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where the lining of the uterus migrates to nearby tissues and organs, and begins growing there. This causes tenderness, pain and even bleeding for a sufferer, who are typically women of child bearing age. There is no known cause of endometriosis, but hormonal discrepancies; particularly a surplus of oestrogen is thought to be a factor in the condition. Oestrogen is responsible for the growth of the lining of the uterus. Other triggers may be hereditary factors and environmental toxins. Endometriosis is typically treated by surgery, which removes the tissue from areas it has colonised; as well as hormone treatment to stabilise this aspect of the condition.
Massage
Massage is an ancient healing tradition that has been used by a diverse array of cultures for centuries. This includes Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and the Ayurvedic tradition of India. Simply defined massage can be described as the manipulation of the muscles and tissues of the body for therapeutic effect. This has the effect of releasing toxins and muscular tension from the muscles, while stimulating the hormone and immune systems. Some common types of massage include:
Aromatherapy – essential oils are used to enhance the massage experience
Deep tissue – focused on the deep layers of muscle and tissue
Reflexology – massage of the soles of the feet to effect healing
Remedial – centred on injured or damaged muscle, but also to effect overall healing
Shiatsu – pressure massage combined with stretching
Swedish – a gentle massage, utilising soft strokes
Thai – massage that utilises stretching and various positions
The benefits of massage are varied and can include:
- Reduced muscular tension
- Improved circulationIncrease in the production of feel good hormones such as endorphinImproved mental alertness; and
- Decrease in tension, anxiety and depression
Massage for Endometriosis
Massage therapy is best administered by a qualified massage therapist. They will assess your condition and symptoms, and devise a program suited to this. For the treatment of endometriosis, massage techniques are aimed at pain relief; as well as manipulating the area around the reproductive organs to stimulate fertility and ensure optimum function.
Find out about other effective natural endometrios treatments.
Find a massage therapist in your area on the pages of this site.
Originally published on Sep 29, 2010
