How Massage Works
Massage therapists will use a variety of techniques to promote healing and relaxation, as well as to promote greater flexibility and range of motion. When a specific muscle group is injured or contracted, other muscles surrounding the affected area also brace in response to the injury or contraction. Massage helps to improve blood circulation, decrease pain and inflammation, helps to relax the muscles, and makes you feel better.
Massage involves a manual application of pressure and movement to soft body tissues the skin, muscles, tendon, ligaments, and fascia (membranes surrounding muscles). Massage is believed to increase blood circulation and flow of lymph (fluid from body tissues that flows into the blood stream). It helps the body to heal itself by promoting the flow of blood and lymph, stimulating nerves, conditioning the skin, and stretching and loosening muscles to keep them elastic. Massage also has a positive psychological effect. When we are stressed, our breathing becomes more rapid and shallow, our hearts work harder and digestion slows down. Chronic stress can influence a number of illnesses including migraines, depression, and hypertension. Massage therapy can help to relieve tension and counteract the effects of stress on the body.
