Both sinus pressure and nasal congestion can cause great discomfort to those who suffer from them. Sinusitis is an inflammation of the nasal passages and can also affect other areas of the body including the throat, ears, teeth, and lungs. If not treated properly, it can lead to further problems such as respiratory, dental and ear infections. Nasal congestion is uncomfortable too. It makes it hard to breathe due to the lining of membranes caused by inflamed blood vessels and causes blockage or swelling of the nasal passages. Both these ailments can cause headaches, cough and congestion, fever, loss of smell, excess mucus as well as tenderness in the facial area which will decrease the quality of life of the sufferer.
Many over-the-counter medicines including decongestants or stronger solutions like antibiotics can help with symptoms of sinusitis and nasal congestion. But natural, holistic alternatives are very popular in relieving the pain and clearing the symptoms up. Practices such as acupuncture and steam inhalation are known to help but acupressure and massage therapy is something that has been studied closely by researchers and found to be beneficial when dealing with sinus pressure and nasal congestion.
What Is Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy is a technique known as a manual manipulation of muscular structure and body tissues to enhance a person’s health and well-being. It is recognised as one of the oldest methods of healing and is known to have been around for about 4000 years. There are various types of massage therapy that can focus on different areas of the body to aid health-related problems including deep tissue, lymphatic drainage and cranial sacral therapy. Acupressure concentrated on the facial area can be used for sinus and nasal problems in particular.
How Does Massage Therapy Ease Sinus Pressure And Nasal Congestion?
Those with repeated bouts have probably tried a range of over-the-counter and prescription drugs for relieving their sinus discomfort. But since the conditions can last months at a time, massage therapy could be a better and more natural way to deal with the symptoms caused by sinus pressure and nasal congestion. The use of massage therapy for these ailments has been popular for centuries and studied have found its ability to help suffers with painful symptoms. Lymphatic drainage procedures can remove much of the congestive material from around the facial area relieving the build up of pressure in the sinus area. All massaging techniques aim to stimulate the muscles and soft tissues allowing a breakdown in any tension buildup. Once that pressure has been released, the body is able to get rid of any excess mucus from the nasal area allowing temporary relief for the sufferer. The decline of pressure also lightens the intensity of the pain, which in turn stops headaches and general pain found in the facial area.
Where Can I Go To Get Massage Therapy?
It is possible to try massage therapy yourself by massaging the forehead, hairline, cheeks, and sinus area. One simple massage would consist of placing the thumb and forefinger on either hand on the sides of the bridge of the nose. Squeeze the bridge of the nose for one second, and then release the pressure for one second. Repeat this process ten to fifteen times. This will open the sinuses for proper drainage. Massaging above and below the eyes will break up congestion as well.
Although trying massage therapy yourself can give short-term relief, visiting a professional therapist will be more beneficial in the long-run as they are certified in knowing the best approaches in facial massage. In a professional session with sinus massage, acupressure, lymphatic drainage and cranial sacral therapy, massage therapists can bring welcome relief to the pain caused especially by sinus problems. Make sure you visit a well-known, certified therapist and make sure they explain to you beforehand what the massage therapy will involve.
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Source: Lifestyle