The Benefits of Therapeutic Massage: What the Research Shows

Therapeutic massage offers more than relaxation—it can ease stress, support postpartum recovery, and help manage chronic pain.
January 31, 2025
Close-up of a massage therapist applying pressure to a client’s shoulder, illustrating the benefits of therapeutic massage for muscle tension relief.

At A Healer’s Hand + The Nest (AHH), we’ve seen firsthand the benefits of therapeutic massage and how it can transform the way people feel in their bodies. Whether you’re navigating stress, recovering postpartum, or managing chronic pain, the benefits of therapeutic massage go far beyond relaxation.

And science backs it up.

Stress Relief That Goes Deeper

Massage therapy helps reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels and increasing serotonin and dopamine, which improve mood and support nervous system regulation.

Supporting Research

Looking for a calming session? Explore our therapeutic massage offerings and book your next appointment today.

Natural Pain Relief Without Medication

From low back pain and fibromyalgia to headaches and arthritis, therapeutic massage helps relieve chronic pain by:

  • Relaxing tight muscles
  • Increasing circulation
  • Releasing endorphins

Supporting Research

Our customized bodywork services — including therapeutic massage and manual physical therapy — are designed to support recovery and long-term pain relief.

Stronger Immunity, Backed by Research

Massage has been shown to support the immune system by boosting natural killer (NK) cell activity and reducing inflammation markers in the body.

Manual lymphatic drainage, in particular, also helps stimulate the movement of lymph fluid — an essential part of immune function — supporting detoxification and reducing fluid buildup that can contribute to sluggishness and inflammation.

Supporting Research

Better Sleep and Nervous System Regulation

Struggling with sleep? Massage therapy can help by calming the nervous system and improving physical comfort, especially for those in recovery or during pregnancy.

Supporting Research

Support rest and recovery with a custom-tailored massage session at AHH.

Boosts Circulation and Lymphatic Flow

Massage encourages healthy blood and lymph flow, helping oxygen and nutrients reach tissues while supporting detoxification.

This is especially helpful for:

  • Post-surgical recovery
  • Swelling and inflammation
  • General fatigue or sluggishness

Explore our lymphatic support services for gentle, targeted relief.

Supporting Research

Supports Pregnancy and Postpartum Healing

Prenatal massage helps reduce swelling, back pain, and other pregnancy-related discomforts. After birth, it can support hormonal balance and physical recovery.

Supporting Research

All of our prenatal and postpartum massage services are provided by licensed professionals trained in safe perinatal care.

Experience the Healing Power of Therapeutic Massage

Whether you’re new to massage or returning after time away, our licensed therapists are here to support your health and healing. Each session is customized to your body, your goals, and your stage of life.

Want to feel better — naturally?

Book your therapeutic massage today and experience the proven benefits of compassionate, clinical bodywork at AHH.