Benefits of Massage

Massage is one of the oldest forms of physical medicine whose benefits were advocated by Hippocrates, known as the father of medicine. References to massage as a medical practice have also been found in early Chinese manuscripts from around 3000 BC.

Touch stimulates receptors in the skin to send electrical messages to the brain, which result in the release of chemicals such as endorphins. These endorphins help create a sense of relaxation and can reduce the sensation of pain.

Ranging from carpal tunnel syndrome, to chronic arthritis, massage therapy techniques are helping patients of all walks of life get back on their feet again. Massage eases pain and discomfort in a number of ways. “Manual massage is a long established and effective therapy used for the relief of pain, swelling, muscle spasm, and restricted movement,” as noted in a study at the University of East Anglia in Norwich, UK

First, massage encourages blood flow to the sore, muscles, or stiff joints and warms the area. According to a study at Peninsula Medical School, The mechanical action of the hands on cutaneous and subcutaneous structures is believed to enhance the circulation of blood and lymph resulting in increased supply of oxygen and removal of waste products or mediators of pain.

Second, massage also triggers the release of natural painkillers called opioids and endorphin in the brain, according to the National Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Third, massage speeds up the flow of oxyctocin, a hormone that relaxes muscles and encourages feelings of calmness and contentment. Most importantly perhaps, a massage can relax the mind and reduce anxiety, which may affect the perception of pain positively. The benefits of a good massage are overwhelming, and contribute to overall health and well-being.

Massage therapy is proven effective in easing tightness and pain in lightly to moderately stressed muscles–it is also used in alleviating chronic pain. A 2001 study in the Archives of Internal Medicine discovered that massage was far superior to acupuncture in relieving chronic lower back pain. After 10 weeks, nearly three–fourths of the 262 patients studied said massage was “very helpful” in relieving their pain. Patients who got regular massage treatments were four times less likely to become bedridden due to chronic pain. The authors of the study concluded, “massage might be an effective alternative to conventional medical care for persistent back pain.”

Massage is also extremely safe. When performed by an experienced and licensed professional. Therapeutic massage can relieve pain, tension, knots, and soreness in the body. Those suffering from open wounds, eczema, broken bones, or advanced osteoporosis should talk to a doctor before making an appointment with a massage therapist, for some massage may cause further damage in frail bodies. This is especially true with more forceful forms of massage like Shiatsu. Still, massage is overwhelmingly beneficial for most patients, and can help ease the majority of aches and pains one may have.

There are many types of massage therapy, each with their own specific uses and benefits, but all massage involves the kneading and manipulation of the bodies soft tissues (muscles, tendons and ligaments), to aid healing, relaxation and mobility.

Western massage uses direct contact with the skin to determine the condition of the bodies soft tissues and the likely source of any pain. The manipulation of these soft tissues can also facilitate the circulation of blood and increase lymphatic drainage.

The body has two types of responses to being massaged:

·         Mechanical Responses as a result of pressure and movement as the soft tissues are manipulated.

·         Reflex responses as a result nerves respond to stimulation.

Cardiovascular System

·         Mechanically assists the flow of blood back to the heart, improving circulation

·         Dilates blood vessels improves their effectiveness

·         Improves delivery of oxygen and nutrients to soft tissues

·         Hastens removal of waste products, toxins and carbon dioxides from the body

·         Dilates capillaries causing a temporary drop in blood pressure

Digestive System

·         Relieves constipation, colic and gas, through increased peristalsis in large intestine

·         Stimulates digestion, through increased activity of the parasympathetic nervous system

Lymphatic System

·         Reduces excess fluid build up by increasing lymphatic drainage

·         Regular massage can help increase white blood cells and strengthen the immune system

Muscular System

·         Relieves muscular tightness, spasms and stiffness in muscle tissue

·         Increases flexibility in muscles due to muscular relaxation

·         Increases blood circulation, enabling more oxygen and nutrients to flow through the muscular system

·         Reduces muscle fatigue and soreness

Nervous System

·         Stimulates sensory receptors

·         Stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system

·         Reduces stress and aids relaxation

·         Releases endorphins, reducing pain

Skeletal System

·         Increases joint mobility by reducing the thickening of connective tissue

·         Helps break down scar tissue, free adhesions and decreases inflammation

·         Restores motion to stiff joints

·         Improves muscle tone and balance, reducing the physical stress placed on bones and

Skin

·         Increases nutrients to cells and encourages cell regeneration

·         Increases sweat production, improving release of waste products and toxins through the skin

·         Improves elasticity, suppleness and resistance to infection

·         Improves skin colour through vaso-dilation of surface capillaries

Respiratory System

·         Relaxes respiratory muscles, improving lung capacity and deepening respiration

·         Reduced stimulation as the body relaxes, slows the respiratory rate

Physiological Benefits

·         Relaxes the body and mind, reducing stress and anxiety

·         Enhances feelings of well-being and self-esteem

·         Encourages positive body awareness

·         Can help ease emotional trauma through relaxation

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