Frequency of Massage Therapy: How often should I get treatments?

A common question I often hear from clients is "How often should I get massage?". There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question and my answer is dependent on a number of variables. There are a few things to consider when deciding what works best for you and your body.

Realistically, if we could all feasibly make it work, I'd suggest weekly treatments to many of my clients. In a perfect world, we would all be receiving weekly massage therapy treatments, and we'd be much happier and healthier for it. But, most of us don't have the means to consider this a viable option, whether it be time or money, or both. If these are not roadblocks for you, I say get as many massages as you desire!

I'd say if you have an active lifestyle, live with chronic pain, deal with high amounts of stress and anxiety, or have a labor intensive job, then it would probably be ideal to keep an appointment routine of approximately every 4 weeks, sometimes more often depending on the case and cause of concern. Variables that may affect this frequency include things such as age, overall health, activity level, pregnancy, and injuries.

Let me also say that there is no wrong amount of times to get a massage. If that means you can only afford 1-2 sessions per year, then I think that you should do what is best for you and your situation. Unfortunately, massage therapy is not often accessible with insurance coverages. However, you can usually use HSA accounts setup through your employer. HSA is an available payment option at my office and probably most massage therapy offices.

To increase the benefits and longevity of massage treatments- and this also goes for those not currently getting regular massage treatments, I highly recommend developing a home maintenance routine that keeps you out of pain and stress as much as possible.

That may include self-massage techniques with or without tools such as a foam roller, trigger point ball, hand tools, hand-held massage guns, etc. Using hot packs and ice packs as needed to treat sore muscles and inflammation. Using a topical cream of your preference such as a magnesium cream, arnica cream, or topical CBD. Keeping a regular exercise routine that includes cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and mobility exercises. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet. Use of meditation and breathing exercises to regulate nervous system and emotional triggers. And, I'd include spending time outdoors and making time for a leisure hobby you enjoy, which I believe is extremely important for mental and emotional well-being.

I truly believe that including consistent massage care into anyone's wellness routine will have an outstandingly positive impact on their overall well-being and greatly improve their quality of life. Whether thats once a week, once a month, or once every few months. This is ultimately up to you as to what you feel works best for you.

Be well, live curiously.

Jenna Threadgill

LMT, CYT

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