Physical benefits For most patients, massage therapy is an important part of specific medical treatment plans to help them return to daily activities. For example, massage therapy is helpful after joint replacement surgery or injury.
Certain skin conditions, such as open wounds, burns, rashes, or contagious skin infections (like impetigo or fungal infections), should not be treated with massage. Even non-contagious skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema may be aggravated by massage if not handled carefully.
A full-body massage doesn't have to include your sensitive areas. You can say which parts of your body you don't want to be touched.
If a doctor prescribes massage therapy to treat a specific medical issue like pain or injury, then it can be considered a medical expense. But if you're getting a massage just for relaxation, it might not count as a medical expense.
Medical Massage Benefits
Proponents of massage therapy and researchers alike agree that there are many benefits to getting regular massages for problem areas, chronic pain, and mental health, including: Decreased Inflammation. Better sleep. Increased mobility.
At Mayo Clinic, medical providers may recommend massage therapy to help people cope with the pain and stress of conditions such as cancer, heart disease, stomach problems or fibromyalgia.
How much does medical massage cost with insurance? Medical massage therapy (also called myotherapy) costs about $100-150 per hour on average in the United States.
For instance, if a doctor prescribes lymphatic drainage massage as part of treatment for a specific medical condition like lymphedema, your insurance might cover it. However, for general wellness or detoxification purposes, you're likely going to pay out of pocket.
Although medical massage may use some of the same techniques as other types of massage, the main difference between medical massage and other massage types is that medical massage has a focused approach to specifically address a physician-diagnosed issue.
These include direct manipulation of the spine, the front of the neck, and any visibly injured or inflamed areas.
If you are planning to start using medication, perform tests before or after treatment, and no sooner than 10-14 days post-treatment. If you are taking any medication, tell your doctor or laboratory specialist. Blood testing is not recommended after massage therapy, reflexotherapy or physiotherapy.
The types of structures that are vulnerable in an area of caution may include arteries, veins, nerves, bursae, lymph nodes or vessels, or small and fragile bones. Examples of areas of caution for massage include the popliteal space behind the knee, the anterior cervical region, and the axillary region.
Depending on your situation, your doctor likely will be open to prescribing massage. Licensed therapeutic massage is safe and non-addictive, and medical research consistently supports its effectiveness as a pain-management treatment.
“It's also important to note that lymphatic drainage techniques are not recommended for people who have a heart condition, kidney problems or cellulitis.”
Factors Impacting the Lymphatic Drainage Massage Cost
Larger areas or those with more lymphatic congestion may require longer sessions, thus increasing the overall cost. For instance, a full-body massage is typically more expensive than a session focusing solely on the legs or arms.
This massage is about you and it's important that you feel comfortable. For some people that means leaving some clothing on. For others, it means taking it (mostly) all off. There is no right or wrong, this is your massage.
Never touch the client's genitals or anus. Clients can only provide explicit consent to have their genital area and gluteal cleft exposed for the purpose of Massage Therapy during childbirth.
"Because a massage therapist or aesthetician is providing a service, you should tip them in addition to the cost of your service." Keep in mind that when you get a massage or facial at a spa, you're paying the spa for the service you receive from the aesthetician.
The cost of massage therapy can vary depending on several factors, such as location, type of massage, and experience level of the therapist. On average, a massage typically ranges from $50 to $150 per hour.
1. What are the general massage frequency guidelines? It is generally recommended to get a massage once a month to maintain the benefits of relaxation and stress relief. However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent sessions, especially if they have specific health concerns or physical discomfort.
If you have a diagnosed medical condition or injury that requires targeted treatment, medical massage may be the better choice. If you're looking for general relief from stress and muscle tension, a therapeutic massage may be sufficient.