Pregnancy discomfort

Research shows that therapeutic massage offers significant benefits both before and after delivery.

Reports and Studies

A study published in 1999 by the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynecology found that patients who received therapeutic massages experienced reduced anxiety, improved sleep quality, decreased back pain, and overall enhanced moods.

In Boca Raton, Florida, obstetrician Dr. Gail Pezzullo-Burgs has incorporated therapeutic massage into her prenatal care regimen. She has observed that this practice leads to lower anxiety levels and fewer instances of sciatica pain caused by the additional weight of pregnancy.

A 2006 study in the Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences found that massage effectively treated pregnancy-related nausea. In 2009, the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies reported that a six-week combination of massage and psychotherapy significantly improved depression symptoms in 112 pregnant women, compared to those who received only psychotherapy.

In 2009, Infant Behavior & Development reported that women who received massage therapy experienced reduced depression both after 12 weeks of treatment and postpartum. A 2010 review in Expert Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology also noted decreased depression, anxiety, and reduced leg and back pain, leading to less pain medication use and labour that was, on average, three hours shorter.

Conditions

Pregnancy has several physiological and psychological effects on the woman as she carries the baby and sometimes afterward.  Some of the typical complaints include:

• Morning Sickness – Susan Salvo, Ph.D., presented a paper on massage at the 2017 AMTA National Convention. She advised elevating the woman’s body during the massage but cautioned against any rocking or shaking. She also suggested keeping an appropriate container nearby in case of vomiting.
• Heartburn – It has been observed that positioning the body at an incline can help alleviate reflux. Additionally, placing support under the abdomen while lying on the side can relieve tension in the gastric sphincter.
• Varicose Veins – This indicates blood pooling, and massaging directly over these areas could be harmful, potentially dislodging a blood clot. It’s recommended to focus on the feet while avoiding long strokes from the ankle to the hip.
• Swelling – Regular edema can be managed with certain techniques, but be cautious if you notice significant swelling in the hands or face, as this might indicate complications.

At Calgary RMT, our team and mobile massage therapists stay informed about key studies to better assist our pregnant clients. We prioritize thorough intake procedures and continuous monitoring to avoid any potential complications. Proper body positioning and precise techniques are essential for providing effective support.

We are also available to collaborate with your physician to ensure the best care during your pregnancy and postpartum period.