During holidays and relaxation times, our bodies need healing. Many people are looking for ways to relax their bodies, relieve tense muscles, and seek overall health care. There are many questions about the differences between the two relaxation methods: "Thai Massage" and "Physical Therapy." Which type of massage is better? Today, B-healthy will help you understand the differences, so you can choose the one that suits you best.
What is Thai Massage?
Thai Massage is an ancient Thai medical science that reflects the cultural essence of Thailand since the Sukhothai era. There may be various beliefs about Thai massage, but the art of Thai massage involves the use of massage techniques, applying pressure on specific points using hands, feet, arms, elbows, knees, and feet during the massage. The masseuse will press, squeeze, twist, pull, warm, and apply fragrant herbal compresses to relax the tense muscles from stress and provide treatment for various pain and discomfort symptoms.
Benefits of Thai Massage
- Stimulates blood circulation by applying pressure on specific points to provide oxygen to various parts of the body.
- Relieves pain and relaxes tense muscles, creating a sense of relaxation and comfort with the scent of herbal massage oils.
- Reduces stress-related headaches and migraines. Research has shown that those who received Thai massage 9 times in 3 weeks experienced a decrease in headache symptoms.
- However, if you have severe headaches, body pain, or other abnormal symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor before treating with Thai massage.
These symptoms can be relieved by Thai massage
The main purpose of Thai massage is to help relax muscles by using techniques such as applying pressure on specific points, massaging, and stretching muscles. B-healthy recommends you check your symptoms, and if they are as follows, choose Thai massage as the suitable massage method for you:
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Pain and discomfort from work or daily routines
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Seeking relaxation from stress
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Wanting to rejuvenate the body after exercise or traveling
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Experiencing minor muscle tension or pain
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Postpartum body recovery massage, a popular Thai traditional medicine technique called "Yu Fai"
Recommended massage parlors by B-Healthy, click here.
What is Physical Therapy?
Many people think that physical therapy is suitable only for the elderly. In reality, physical therapy can be done at any age for those with health problems that require body rehabilitation, such as stroke patients, injured athletes, or post-operative patients. Physical therapy can also be applied to the general population who want to relieve muscle tension, from mild to chronic pain levels.
Physical Therapy (PT) is a science that aims to restore and enhance the body's capabilities through various medical techniques that require the expertise of professionals throughout the treatment process. Physical therapy does not focus on medication or surgery; instead, it involves adjusting behavior and using appropriate physical therapy equipment for specific symptoms. It emphasizes prevention, treatment, and addressing abnormalities in muscles. There are several methods in performing physical therapy.
Benefits of Physical Therapy
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Rehabilitation and addressing body performance issues
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Reducing chronic pain and correcting muscle abnormalities without using medication
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Preventing muscle atrophy and contracture in bedridden patients
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Improving body balance
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Strengthening muscles
These symptoms call for physical therapy
The main purpose of physical therapy ranges from treating chronic pain to severe illnesses, requiring specialists in rehabilitative medicine and physical therapists for disease diagnosis and treatment design that aligns with the symptoms and causes of the illness. Before undergoing physical therapy, it is essential to choose the appropriate treatment for your body, as physical therapy offers a more comprehensive approach than traditional Thai massage.
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Experiencing chronic pain or severe muscle pain that affects work and daily life
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Injuries from playing sports, such as inflamed tendons, ankle sprains from sports activities, or injuries from chronic exercise, which require assessment before treatment, as well as proper self-care methods
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Referred by a rehabilitation doctor or other health expert for physical therapy treatment
In conclusion, Thai massage and physical therapy are vastly different health care options. Thai massage is a relaxation method based on ancient Thai techniques, while physical therapy involves the use of equipment and technology to rehabilitate the body, requiring health assessment and treatment by specialized professionals.
B-healthy recommends two options for you to choose from, so you can make an informed decision about the most suitable health care course for you. If you are still unsure, feel free to chat with our admin for advice. We are more than happy to provide consultation and recommend a course that best fits your needs.[Click]
Reference,
WebMD, Benefits of Thai Massage
Healthline, 6 Science-Supported Benefits of Thai Massage
MedicalNewsToday, What are the health benefits of Thai massage?
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pradit Prateepavanich, Massage for Health
Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Alternative Medicine Unit