In a world where digital technology has become ubiquitous, the strain on the body and psyche is growing. Gamers, programmers, testers, designers, DevOps engineers, and other IT professionals spend hours on end. They create virtual worlds, optimize codes, manage huge amounts of data — and all this often at the cost of their own health.
Unfortunately, the consequences of this rhythm are already thought about at the stage of chronic neck pain or numbness in the fingers. This is where Thai massage comes to the fore — not as a luxury, but as a necessity.
Occupational diseases of gamers and IT specialists
The work of an IT specialist seems outwardly safe: a person sits at a desk, moves a mouse and presses keys. However, the statistics of therapists, orthopedists and neurologists tell a different story:
- Myofascial syndrome — painful tightness in the muscles caused by static posture.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (tunnel syndrome) — a common problem in those who work a lot with a mouse or keyboard.
- Cervicogenic headache — pain in the back of the head and temples caused by overstretching the neck muscles.
- Scoliosis, hyperlordosis, flat feet — the result of prolonged sitting without adequate spinal support.
- Chronic fatigue and emotional burnout — a consequence of constant stress and mental overstrain.
Gamers also often experience increased anxiety, sleep dysfunction, finger tension, and decreased circulation in the lower body, especially if gaming continues for hours without a break.
How does massage help with these problems?
Massage has been scientifically proven to improve circulation, accelerate lymphatic drainage, reduce cortisol levels and promote the production of endorphins. But how exactly does it affect the typical complaints of people working in IT?
Relieving tension in the neck and shoulders
When working at a computer for long periods of time, people instinctively raise their shoulders and tilt their head forward. This leads to spasm of the trapezius muscle, neck muscles and even jaw muscles. Professional massage can:
- eliminate muscle tightness;
- restore mobility to the cervical vertebrae;
- improve blood circulation to the brain;
- reduce headaches and eye strain.
Thai massage is particularly effective due to deep pressure points and passive stretching, the very techniques used in Royal Thai Spa programs.
Prevention of carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a real scourge of programmers and gamers. It occurs due to compression of the median nerve in the wrist area. Symptoms: numbness, tingling, weakness in the hand. Massage can help:
- relieve swelling and inflammation in the wrist area;
- improve mobility of the tendons and muscles of the forearm;
- increase microcirculation;
- reduce nerve compression.
Thai techniques include massage of the fingers, palms and even the elbow bends, which is especially important when constantly working with a mouse and keyboard.
Types of massage recommended for IT professionals
Royal Thai Spa offers a range of treatments ideal for those associated with digital technology. Here are just a few of them:
- Traditional Thai massage — a combination of pressure, stretching and manual therapy. Suitable for those who want to get rid of clamps and improve flexibility.
- Aroma massage — soothes the nervous system, relieves stress, helps with insomnia.
- Head, neck and shoulder massage — specifically works with problem areas associated with tension from the monitor.
- Four-handed massage — ideal for a complete reboot of the nervous system.
- Hamam + massage — gentle steaming enhances the effect of the treatment by relaxing the muscles and opening the pores.
Details and the effect of each direction can be found in our article about varieties of massage.
Self-massage and exercises for prevention
A massage therapist isn't always on hand, but that's no reason to give up on self-care. Simple actions throughout the day can help avoid the accumulation of fatigue:
- Neck warm-up every 60 minutes: head tilts, twists, circular movements.
- Hand and wrist massage: warm up the skin, press the points in the center of the palm, massage each finger.
- Stretch the back and hips: cat pose, twisting, bending forward.
- Stand up and walk at least once an hour to disperse the blood in the lower extremities.
It is also advisable to use ergonomic furniture, a footrest and a chair with lumbar support to minimize strain.
The importance of regular massage sessions
A single massage session, of course, gives relief, but the therapeutic effect is achieved precisely through regularity. That's why experts recommend:
- 1 session per week — if you are active and have chronic pain.
- 1 session per 2 weeks — for prevention and stress relief.
- Intensive course of 5-10 sessions — for severe tunnel syndrome, migraine or myofascial pain.
Regular sessions also help to normalize sleep, improve mood, increase stress resistance. This is especially important for professionals working with deadlines and multitasking.
If you are not sure what kind of massage to choose, Royal Thai Spa specialists will always help you find the best option.
Royal Thai Spa: specialized programs for IT-sphere
Royal Thai Spa in Kiev has been working with employees of IT-companies, game studios and freelancers for many years. We understand how important it is for a programmer or a gamer to keep working capacity, concentration and well-being.
What the salon offers for digital professionals:
- Programs focusing on the neck, shoulders and lower back.
- Work on arms, hands, fingers.
- Aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety;
- Individual approach with the selection of oils and techniques.
- Stretching according to the method of traditional Thai massage.
- Loyal corporate offers and discounts for IT teams and offices.
The high-tech world demands high performance. But it doesn't have to be followed by exhaustion and pain. Massage is a tool that helps to conserve resources, reboot, prolong health and even increase productivity. Thai practices at Royal Thai Spa are not exotic, but an effective therapy, especially for those who live in front of a screen.