Massage for Chronic Pain: What Actually Works (Backed by Science)

Why massage works and isn't just a "treat"

The science

But what kind of massage?

Pain isn't just physical

Ready to begin your pain-free journey?

Leg massage

If you’ve been living with chronic pain, you’ve probably tried it all: pills, stretches, ice packs, even just pushing through. But pain doesn’t just live in your muscles — it lives in your nervous system, your stress levels, your trauma history, and sometimes in places doctors can’t explain. That’s where massage therapy comes in — not the fluffy kind, but real, evidence-informed therapeutic massage.

Why Massage Works for Chronic Pain (and Why It’s Not Just “Relaxing”)

Massage isn’t just about candles and calming music. When applied correctly, it can:

• Interrupt the pain-spasm cycle

• Reduce inflammation markers

• Stimulate blood flow to restricted tissues

• Down-regulate your nervous system, which is often stuck in fight-or-flight mode in people with chronic pain

• Support the body in processing stored trauma (yes, your pain might be emotional, too — and that’s valid)

The Science Backs It Up

Studies from the National Institutes of Health show that massage therapy significantly reduces chronic pain symptoms, especially in conditions like:

• Fibromyalgia

• Low back pain

• Neck and shoulder pain

• Arthritis

• Migraines and tension headaches

In fact, a 2020 meta-analysis found that massage can be as effective as NSAIDs for pain relief — without the side effects.

What Kind of Massage Is Best for Chronic Pain?

Here at Awaken Massages and Skin Care in Naperville, we don’t do one-size-fits-all. We assess the source of your pain, your stress levels, your nervous system response, and more. Some methods we might use include:

• Myofascial Release – gently unwinds the fascia around muscles and joints

• Trigger Point Therapy – targets pain-referring knots and muscle restrictions

• Cranialsacral Therapy-relieve issues like headaches, jaw tension, tinnitus, anxiety, sleep disturbances, chronic pain, and nervous system dysregulation.

• Visceral Massage-Pelvic floor issues, digestion issues, PCOS symptoms, endometriosis, bloating, IBS, and more

• Neuromuscular Cupping Therapy – calms overactive pain signals

• Lymphatic Drainage – reduces inflammation and supports detox

• Somatic Massage – safe, respectful therapy for clients with PTSD or emotional pain

Pain Isn’t Just Physical. And Neither Is Healing.

At Awaken, we believe chronic pain is more than just a body issue. It’s often tied to:

• Stress or burnout

• Old injuries your body still remembers

• Unresolved trauma

• Hormonal or sleep issues

We hold space for all of that. You are not a problem to be fixed. You’re a whole person who deserves to feel better.

Ready to Finally Feel Relief?

If you’re tired of pushing through or hearing “it’s all in your head,” we’re here. Our therapists specialize in trauma-informed, pain-focused massage — and we’re obsessed with results.

Based in Naperville, IL Choose your therapist now OR Call us: 630-484-3821 We offer new client and regular client discounts to help you on your wellness journey!