Why Trager Massage Could Be the Solution to Your Pain

The ongoing search for relief can become all-consuming for those dealing with chronic pain. It’s likely what led you here to learn about the Trager Approach.

If you’re looking for an alternative method to pills and other so-called solutions that haven’t worked, you may be in luck. The Trager Approach provides much-needed relief for people experiencing physical imbalances and bodily pain.

Are you one of those people? Read on to learn more about the Trager Approach and if it’s right for you.

What Is Trager Massage?

Milton Trager, M.D., created the Trager Approach in the 1970s as an alternative form of massage and bodywork to deal with his own pain. It’s continued to gain popularity through the years for its proven effectiveness in helping people move naturally, joyfully, efficiently, and loosely.

Dr. Trager believed that physical changes start with mental ones, which is why the Trager Approach focuses on the mind-body connection.

How Trager Massage Works

The Trager Approach is a two-part process that brings both body and mind together to retrain the body to deal with pain. The Trager Approach consists of hands-on work and gentle exercises.

The hands-on work is the first part of the session and usually takes place on a well-padded table. The client typically wears clothing for the treatment and undresses as needed. The practitioner moves fluidly and rhythmically to encourage the sensation of freedom of movement in the client. The practitioner works almost meditatively, allowing them to feel and respond to the slightest change in the client’s reactions.

After the hands-on work, the exercise element follows. The movements, referred to as Mentastics, are designed to recreate the sensory experience of the hands-on work. Therefore, the movements are gentle and should never feel forced or awkward.

The idea behind the Trager Approach is to aid in releasing mental and physical patterns that interfere with mobility and general well-being.

Each session lasts anywhere from an hour to 90 minutes. Your Trager practitioner will help you determine the length and frequency of appointments needed.

The Benefits of Trager Massage

The Trager Approach focuses on gently joining the mind and body to work together to alleviate pain. So obviously, the most compelling benefit of the Trager Approach is the pain relief that comes from it, but that’s not all. Clients often report many other positive results that help them deal with the daily stresses of life, such as:

• Better sleep quality: Without pain keeping you awake, you can finally get some better sleep.
• Improved mental focus: With better sleep comes improved mental clarity and focus. You are also less likely to be focused on the pain like you used to be, freeing your mind to focus on other things.
• Improved mobility: The Trager Approach retrains your body to let go of tension and pain, which helps your body feel limber and move more freely.

What Makes Trager Massage Right for You

The Trager Approach is particularly effective for anyone experiencing any of the following conditions:

• Stress and depression
• Limited movement
• Back and neck pain
• Headaches 
• Muscle spasms
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Cerebral palsy
• Physical injuries and trauma

This isn’t an all-encompassing list, so it’s always best to consult your primary care physician and Trager practitioner before your first session.

Where to Find a Trager Practitioner Near You

Finding a massage and bodywork professional specializing in the Trager Approach isn’t always easy, but MassageBook can help streamline the process. Our easy-to-use search directory can help you find a Trager practitioner in your local area. Read reviews, check out their service menu, and book an appointment in a few simple steps!