3 Ways Teens Can Benefit from Massage

Adolescence is a unique chapter—somewhere between childhood and adulthood, and full of rapid physical, emotional, and social change. Not surprisingly, teens often face unique wellness challenges. While nothing replaces regular checkups and an active lifestyle, massage therapy can be a valuable addition to a teen’s overall care—supporting both their body and their emotional well-being.

Here are three common teen health issues that massage can help with:

1. Body Image Struggles & Eating Disorders

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 3% of U.S. teens experience an eating disorder—and many go without treatment. Social pressures, depression, and involvement in appearance-focused activities (like gymnastics, wrestling, or dance) can all contribute.

Research from the Touch Research Institute has shown that regular massage can help reduce anxiety, boost dopamine (the “feel good” hormone), and lower depression scores in individuals with anorexia or bulimia. Participants also showed improved body awareness and more positive scores on eating disorder assessments.

Of course, massage is not a replacement for counseling or medical care—but it can be a powerful, body-positive support tool in a young person’s healing journey.

2. PMS and Menstrual Discomfort

Menstrual symptoms can be especially tough for teens—between irregular cycles, unfamiliar symptoms, and sometimes feeling too embarrassed to ask for help.

Massage therapy has been shown to ease pain, reduce bloating, and help manage mood swings, anxiety, and fatigue related to PMS. It can also empower teens with simple self-massage techniques to use at home when cramps or discomfort strike.

3. Athletic Injuries

High school athletes get injured at nearly the same rate as pros—but their growing bodies are especially vulnerable. Since bones often grow faster than muscles and tendons, teens are more prone to overuse and growth plate injuries.

Massage therapy (especially sports massage) can help reduce pain, speed up recovery, and prevent injury in the first place—making it a smart addition to any teen athlete’s wellness routine. Whether your teen plays soccer, runs cross-country, or simply needs help unwinding from the demands of adolescence, massage can meet them where they are—and help them feel better in their body.

Massage therapists are now found at every kind of sporting event, from the Olympics all the way down to your local 10K. Given that teen athletes can be more vulnerable to injury and overuse than their adult counterparts, it makes sense to offer them the same opportunities for healing and pain relief.

Know a teen who could benefit from massage?

We’re happy to answer questions, provide age-appropriate recommendations, and create a welcoming, supportive space for your teen to feel safe and cared for.