That's the Rub
by Pam Davis, LMT, RYT, CNS
Musicians Benefit from Targeted Massage Therapies
Experts agree that almost anyone can benefit from the soothing effects of massage therapy, and this certainly includes musicians. Massage promotes healing, alleviates pain and discomfort, lowers heart rate and blood pressure, and stimulates the release of chemicals in the brain such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. It can also increase the range of motion in your spine and joints, enhance muscle tone, and improve posture.
As a musician, any instrument you play requires constant use of the same muscle groups. You may already have experienced muscle fatigue or developed repetitive stress injuries that accompany the overuse of muscles. Massage is an effective way to treat and prevent these injuries, as well as provide you with a renewed feeling of energy.
Finding the Right Modality
There are more than 250 different massage modalities being practiced worldwide. Everyone's body will respond uniquely to different styles of massage, so it's a good idea to try several massage modalities to determine which styles your body responds to best.
To address specific needs like muscle fatigue or repetitive stress injuries, neuromuscular therapy (NMT) is beneficial. You might also like to try shiatsu, deep tissue, or acupressure massage. These modalities can be effective in addressing acute or chronic back and neck pain. Combining craniosacral therapy-focusing on the movement of cerebrospinal fluid-and advanced NMT is a good way to release the diaphragm and the muscles in the anterior neck. These techniques are helpful to all musicians, but can be especially helpful to those who play woodwind or brass instruments, as well as to singers.
A massage therapist who has training and experience in a variety of styles will be able to offer an integration of techniques for relaxation, as well as address any specific needs you may have. If scheduling allows, a once-weekly massage appointment is recommended. With frequent treatment, you will experience better and longer lasting results as your muscle memory is retrained. And of course, the best results come when you feel completely at ease, so make sure you’ve chosen a therapist with whom you feel comfortable.
Finding the Right Therapist
Massage therapist requirements differ slightly from state to state; in 38 states therapists must be licensed and meet the guidelines established and governed by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB). Regardless of whether yours is one of these 38 states, be sure to ask plenty of questions when you are scheduling a massage including: Are you a licensed massage therapist? What type of training have you had? How long have you been practicing massage? What type of massage techniques do you use? Do you have experience addressing physical issues similar to mine? The price of a massage varies, but in most areas you can expect to pay between $50 and $80 for a one-hour session. (Day spas usually charge considerably more.)
Self-massage and Relaxation at Home
Instinctively when something hurts, we rub it. You've probably rubbed your forehead or temples when you had a headache, or your neck and shoulders when they were tight. Self-massage is innately healing. While it is not the same experience as receiving a professional massage, it is undoubtedly helpful.
Using your thumb or fingers (tennis balls also make excellent instant massage tools) you can massage fatigued or tight muscles by rubbing gently in a circular motion. This will increase circulation and offer natural pain relief. When enjoying a massage after rehearsal try adding some relaxation techniques. Light some candles, put in a relaxation CD, lie or sit comfortably, and focus on your breathing. With a little practice, you'll be on your way to looser, happier muscles.
