Booking an appointment with a massage therapist can work wonders for your muscle aches and overall stress. But seeing this healthcare professional also opens the door to a broad spectrum of other benefits. Whether you've never had a massage or are experienced with this form of bodywork but are looking for a change in the type of treatment you receive, ask your registered massage therapist about the results he or she has had in the following three areas, and then get your treatment tailored accordingly. Here are three benefits of massage therapy that you might want to explore.

Improved Sleep

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that as many as 70 million Americans have some degree of difficulty sleeping soundly. If you're among this group, sharing this concern with your massage therapist can be beneficial. Sleep Review journal reports that several studies have shown that regular massage appointments can help patients improve the quality of their sleep. Massage therapy helps to increase the body's serotonin level which, in turn, produces the melatonin that is necessary for sleep. If you visit a massage therapist for help in this area, you'll likely receive massaging of your back muscles, gentle pressure along your legs and calming massaging of the core muscles.

Stronger Immune Function

If you're the type of person who has trouble staying healthy during cold or flu season, your immune system could use a boost. Massage therapy can be the answer. Massage Today magazine reports that Swedish massage, which is the common form of massage you'll likely experience during your appointment, has been hown to improve immune function for patients dealing with autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. Massage can decrease your body's cortisol level, which is known as the "stress hormone." A body that isn't as stressed taxes the immune system to a lesser degree.

Better Digestion

Digestion-related issues such as constipation can make you feel sluggish and miserable, but a visit to your massage therapist can help. To deal with this type of health predicament, massage therapists focus on massaging your abdomen. Don't worry -- it won't hurt your achy, bloated tummy. Using oil, the therapist will make slow, gentle passes over your abdomen to stimulate your stomach and digestive tract. Don't be surprised to find that you experience quick results; you might feel an urge to use the washroom soon after the conclusion of your treatment.

To learn more about the benefits of massage, contact a massage therapist, such as those at La Mesa Chiropractic Center.