CW Vol 2 Ed. 16 - Unknot Stress, Unlock Strength: Your Massage Guide!
Feeling the strain of a long day on the construction site or at your desk? Massage therapy might be the key to help you recharge, recover, and tackle your next challenge with renewed energy. The information shared below is from a recent Barbell Therapy & Performance Podcast episode, where strength coach Jess Ferrer, a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) discusses massage therapy with host Dr. Brett Scott, link to podcast is below!
Why Massage Can Work for Us
Massage therapy can be a game-changer for construction crews hauling heavy loads and office staff hustling at desks. It may help tackle the physical and mental demands of your day, potentially keeping you strong and focused. Here’s how:
Relieves Pain: May soothe sore muscles from labor or screen strain.
Reduces Stress: Can calm the mind during high-pressure moments.
Boosts Energy: May improve blood flow to help fight fatigue.
Speeds Recovery: Can help muscles repair faster for the next challenge.
Lifts Mood: May promote positivity and focus.
What Type of Massage?
Deep Tissue: Relieves chronic soreness in shoulders, back, and legs from lifting, climbing, or repetitive tasks, potentially easing tightness by targeting tight muscles from heavy work or sitting.
Sports: Boosts flexibility and helps prevent injuries by stretching tight muscles, potentially keeping you agile and preventing injury.
Swedish: Eases overall tension, potentially helping you unwind from physical and mental fatigue.
Lymphatic: By stimulating lymphatic flow, this massage can help reduce toxin buildup, potentially easing fatigue, brain fog, and inflammation caused by long hours of sitting, which could be particularly helpful if you’re dealing with conditions like Lyme disease, fibromyalgia or autoimmune disorders. Refer to the February 19th Constructing Wellness edition with Perry Nickelston, DC, for more information on lymphatic massage and steps you can take to do it at home!
What You Can Expect
A Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) will conduct a thorough assessment, which begins the moment you walk through the door, to tailor treatment to your needs. Here’s what an LMT assesses:
Posture Analysis: will check alignment to spot tension from lifting (crew) or sitting (office).
Range of Motion Testing: will evaluate joint mobility to address stiffness or injury risks.
Pain Point Identification: will pinpoint sore areas, like back pain from labor or neck strain from desks.
Lifestyle Review: will discuss daily tasks (e.g., hauling materials or typing) to customize care.
Communication is Key: as Jess Ferrer highlights in The Barbell Therapy & Performance Podcast, communication can be key to getting the most out of your massage experience. Openly sharing your needs and goals with your therapist will help ensure your session is tailored to support your recovery and wellness.
Make It Happen
Find a Pro: Look for certified LMTs via the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) https://www.amtamassage.org/find-massage-therapist/ or local spas. In May we are launching a new service as part of our Constructing Wellness program that will help you find health focused providers, and LMTs are included!
Work Perks: If you are enrolled in either of our HSA eligible plans, or if you are enrolled in an HSA eligible plan elsewhere, Health Savings Account (HSA) funds can be used for massages provided by LMTs, resulting in a tax-free massage!
DIY at Home: Try a foam roller or online self-massage tutorials.
Treat Yourself: Book a session to celebrate a milestone in your life, a job well done, or just because!
Remember, no medical advice here, just tips for a healthier lifestyle! Consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new health regimen.
View this Newsletter and links to resources here!
4/16/2025