Can Myotherapy Help With My PMS Symptoms? What The Science Suggests

Let’s face it – there’s nothing pleasant about PMS. The symptoms you might be experiencing in the days prior to menstruation could range from mildly uncomfortable to unbearable.

But can myotherapy play a role in relieving symptoms associated with PMS? Let’s have a look at what research suggests.

Massage and period pain or cramps

One of the most common symptoms of PMS is period pain/cramps, also known as dysmenorrhoea. Massage is one technique of relief that scientists are starting to explore.

Myotherapy incorporates a lot of massage techniques that focus on the connective tissue or fascia. Some studies have shown that massage that works on connective tissue, particularly around the lower back, can reduce pain and medication use for women with menstrual pain. Sounds like a good excuse for a massage to us!

For those who experience period pains due to endometriosis, massage could still be useful. One small trial found that women diagnosed with endometriosis who received massage therapy experienced a significant reduction of menstrual pain immediately after treatment. The reduction in pain was still evident 6 weeks after receiving the massage.

Can’t get into the clinic for a myotherapy or massage session? Even self-applied acupressure massage may help to reduce menstrual pain. Heat has a similar effect, so combine it with a Wellness Nest heat pack for twice the benefits!

Massage and stress relief

It can feel harder to cope with stress when you’re dealing with PMS symptoms. But a good massage may help to reduce your stress levels naturally.

Countless studies have shown that massage can reduce cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, by up to 31%. It can also boost the levels of feel-good brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. This means massage can relieve stress but also boost a low mood.

Massage and mental health

If you are dealing with depression or anxiety on top of PMS symptoms, it can be a real struggle. Although a massage won’t cure these issues, research suggests they can help.

One review found that massage was associated with significant alleviation of depressive symptoms. Another study found that massage relieved symptoms in people with generalised anxiety disorder.

Even if you don’t have diagnosed depression or anxiety, you may get some relief if you tend towards feeling blue or anxious as part of your PMS symptoms. There are many studies that show massage as a relatively safe and effective support for mental wellbeing.

Why is massage so beneficial for mental health? There are many theories, but we like to think it’s a combination of physical and psychological benefits.

Your body releases feel-good chemicals and muscles relax. But you also feel cared for in a safe environment, and have a chance to reconnect with your body. This is an important aspect when it comes to PMS, as you often feel in need of TLC during the week leading up to menstruation.

Could other aspects of myotherapy help with PMS symptoms?

At this stage, there’s not much research that looks into other tools commonly used in myotherapy when it comes to PMS and hormonal balance.

However, there is one study that showed that dry needling of trigger points was effective for reducing pain and the need for medication use. More research is needed to further explore the potential benefits of different myotherapy techniques.

Are you interested in trying myotherapy for PMS relief? You can book in with one of our friendly practitioners here.