Are you always stressed out from work? Do you experience sleep deprivation that triggers frequent headaches for the entire day? If you have these cases, you may want to consider getting shiatsu treatment therapy.

Shiatsu is a form of massage therapy that originated in Japan. Its name is derived from a Japanese term “finger pressure”. It involves applying pressure to certain points in a body in a rhythmic pattern.

How Does Shiatsu Feel?

With the use of fingers, thumbs or palms, the therapist applies deep pressure continuously approximately for two to eight seconds before release. Some people believe that shiatsu therapy is painful. Actually, it’s not. It’s the tenderness of the pressure that makes it slightly uncomfortable to the first timers. But for the majority, they refer to it as “good pain”.

But if for some instance that the “pain” or discomfort is already unbearable, don’t hesitate to inform your therapist. He or she can easily adjust the pressure to make it more comfy for you.

Benefits of Shiatsu

More and more people go for a shiatsu treatment due to its numerous benefits. If stress always consumes you or if you have stress-related issues, it’s best to try this massage therapy. Shiatsu is helpful against the following cases:

• Back Pain
• Headache
• Arthritis
• Constipation
• Sinus problems
• Sciatica
• Insomnia
• Menstrual problems
• Shoulder and neck pain

There have also been studies where shiatsu can speed up recovery from injuries, improve energy level and promote better metabolism. Moreover, a research done last 2015 indicated that this form of massage therapy can alleviate pain severity and even the quality life of people suffering from fibromyalgia, a musculoskeletal pain disorder that triggers fatigue, mood swings, memory and sleep issues.

Shiatsu Precautionary Measures

While shiatsu treatment has proven to do wonders to many people, it also has some side effects. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to be cautious when thinking about going for this therapy. If you’re unsure if shiatsu is good for you or not, it’s best to consult your physician first.

Experts warned pregnant women that shiatsu is a contraindication. Moreover, those who have just undergone cancer treatments like radiation therapy or chemotherapy are also not advised to have shiatsu. This contraindication also applies to people who have blood clotting disorders, osteoporosis as well as heart diseases.

When undergoing shiatsu treatment, it’s also important to inform the therapist not to apply direct pressure if you have the following:

• Inflamed skin
• Bruises
• Abdominal hernia
• Fractured hernias

Abdominal pressure is also restricted to those who have leg stents.

Overall, shiatsu is a great recommendation to people who want to relieve stress. If you’re hesitant, always get the approval of your family doctor to make sure that this treatment is safe for you.