What are the benefits of hand massages?

When we think of having a massage we often imagine lying on a table while our shoulders and back are gently massaged. Not very often do we think about massaging other parts of our bodies such as our hands.

We use our hands every day at work, and when we get home. In fact, without out hands life would be a lot more difficult. Our hands are put through a lot of movement and we often use them in difficult maneuvers such as opening tight fitting jars.

Our hands are used to pick up and carry babies and children, even when they are bigger and heavier. We use our hands to hold heavy weights in the gym. The list is literally endless when it comes to things that we use our hands for. Little wonder then that they get tired.

Having a hand massage is quick and relaxing and – even better – it will provide you will almost immediate results.

So, what are the benefits?

Relief from pain

Almost one in five adults suffers from some type of arthritis. The most common form found in the hands is osteoarthritis while rheumatoid arthritis comes a close second. This affects everyday activities such as dressing and cooking.

Studies have shown that regular hand massages will not only relieve pain but also strengthen the grip.

Often tasks which are repetitive such as typing will mean cramps in the hands. These can be relieved by a massage so that you can continue to work pain-free.

Better circulation

This may be one of the most important benefits of hand massage. Some conditions such as Raynauds’ means a reduction of blood flow to the hands and fingers, causing often severe pain. Improved circulation delivers essential nutrients to any area of injury and helps to remove by-products which can be harmful if left in-situ.

Better range of motion

If you have tight hand muscles a massage will help to loosen them. It will also help to repair scar tissue following surgery or injury.

Repetitive stress injuries often mean that the fingers are permanently in a painful position and cannot be straightened. Regular hand massages will reduce the pain and give the fingers more flexibility. 

Better quality of sleep

In general, a good massage will improve your sleep pattern. Hand massages are also good for helping your body to relax. When one part of the body is stressed out, the entire body suffers. The sleep pattern is affected.

A good hand massage will offer relaxation which will contribute to a good night’s sleep.

Keeps them strong

Most people who frequent the gym know the phrase ‘use it or lose it.’ This is also true of our hands. To use them effectively, we must keep the supply and in good condition. They should be flexible and strong so that picking things up and opening jars does not become a problem.

Having a hand massage will help to tone the hands, keep them in good condition and makes sure that the muscles are active.

So, what to look for in a hand massager

Quiet

The best hand massagers should be quiet so that you can relax while you are having your massage. There is nothing worse than trying to relax while there is a lot of noise.

Portable

You may want to take your massager into work with you and have a hand massage during your break, to give your hands a good rub. Make sure that the one you choose is light enough to carry in your bag. This way you will be more inclined to take it with you and use it to relieve pain, rather than wait until you get home at night.

Effective

Some hand massagers will be more effective than others. You need to decide what amount of massage you prefer. Every hand is different. If you suffer from a lot of pain, you may require a massager which is gentle and does not place too much pressure on your hands. Other people may enjoy a more vigorous massage.

Cost

Hand massages vary in price – as with any electrical gadget. While you may not want to buy the cheapest one on the market, there will be several that fall into the middle price range and will work as well as the higher priced ones. Make sure that you read the reviews of the massager before you make up your mind.

To sum up

If you suffer from any hand and wrist pain or have fingers which ache at the end of the day, you may want to think about getting yourself a hand massager.

Likewise, to stop any condition from developing, a hand massager is a good idea.

Hand massagers need not break your financial bank, in fact, most of them are very reasonably priced.

Before you buy a hand massager, make sure that it fulfills your needs. If you intend to take it with you to work or on holiday, it should be portable and lightweight.

The strength of the massage should depend on your hands and how comfortable they feel while it is working. Not everyone can cope with a vigorous massage, so get the machine that works for you.

You don’t always need a reason for a hand massage, although you will certainly benefit from one if your hands are painful.

Sometimes at the end of a busy and hectic day, you may want to take half an hour for yourself. Spend it giving yourself a relaxing hand massage. Light a scented candle, put your feet up and enjoy a massage. You will wonder why you never invested in one of these before!