Spas aren’t just for people who need a little mental boost. According to the American Spa Therapy Association, doctors are using massage and spa therapy as part of their patient’s care plan! In 2021, it was estimated that 63% of people who received a message did so as part of their treatment suggested by a medical professional. This isn’t surprising, especially considering the numerous health benefits that spa therapy provides for both mental and physical health. Massages have long been known to help increase circulation and lower blood pressure, but according to the Mayo Clinic, there’s also evidence suggesting that it can help improve the body’s immune system . This makes a visit to the spa more than a little treat to oneself. For some, it’s a vital way of managing chronic pain and keeping their body’s systems in balance.
Medical Alternative or Tool?
It appears that more and more doctors in the United States are becoming aware of the restorative properties of spa therapy, as the last decade has seen an increase in med spa visits prescribed by medical professionals. The trend is rising in states like New York and California, but southern states like Texas are embracing this new “tool” as well. Austin is one of the fastest booming cities where visits to a med spa are becoming more and more frequent. Treatments at an Austin med spa vary from Swedish massages to facial treatments and many other relaxing sessions. Often, treatments are overseen by a doctor, and as a result, some spas are able to offer a wider variety of treatments and procedures. For instance, one popular service at many medical spas is hydrotherapy.
Hydrotherapy involves flushing out your colon with water. This is helpful for regulating your system and reducing strain on the abdominal muscles. Contrary to many beliefs, this does not remove “toxins” from the body, but can be a great asset for those with chronic gastrointestinal problems or cancer patients, for example, who want a drug free way to keep their system regular. Another therapeutic benefit medical spas can offer compared to traditional spas is the use of botox to treat migraines, laser therapy to encourage weight loss, and dermarolling to spark collagen growth under the skin.
Healing for the Body and Soul
While traditional spas may not offer services like Botox, they do offer a variety of tools that have medical benefits. Saunas are becoming increasingly popular for their restorative benefits. Newer infrared sauna models create dry heat, which is more tolerable for some people. But sitting in high temperatures for a short time helps dilate the blood vessels, which in turn can lower blood pressure. Some spas offer float therapy, where clients can float in a pod filled with water with a high salinity. Float therapy enthusiasts report feeling totally relaxed and peaceful after this experience, but there are a wealth of physical benefits as well. Namely, submerging in water can reduce joint stress and help with conditions like arthritis. Some people visit spas for salt water baths to promote recovery, such as after giving birth or having surgery.
The wonderful thing about massage and spa therapies is that the services can be tailored to fit your specific needs. Their healing and soothing benefits allow many people to manage chronic pain without the use of medication or avoid the use of surgery. With all of the numerous mental and physical benefits, it’s no wonder why doctors are adding spa therapy to their practices.