The Amazing Benefits of Massage
Massage has had positive results in surveys for many different conditions, from stress and aches and pains to pregnancy and headaches. However, it is still not entirely clear why these benefits occur. Most recent research suggests two of the greatest changes induced by massage therapy are an increase in blood flow and in lymphatic fluid circulation.
The lymphatic fluid is an important element of the immune system as it contains white cells; and the drainage system, which rids the body of unwanted by-products and toxins. Massage can increase the effectiveness of both systems by increasing the flow of lymphatic fluid.
Increased blood and lymph circulation will bring about reduction of swelling, faster healing, better delivery of nutrition to cells and the removal of cellular debris; it can also lower heart rate and blood pressure, increase volume of blood and enhance overall health.
Massage can not only be used as a form of treatment in acute and chronic sports injuries, but may also be used by athletes to maximize recovery and to help identify any soft tissue abnormalities, which left untreated, could lead to injury.
Sports injury massage should not be during the acute inflammatory response stage (straight after an injury). Once this period is over. massage is often a very effective form of pain relief by reducing the amount of pain producing chemicals in the effected tissues. Regular, professional massage has also been shown to increase the healing time for athletic injuries.
Massage also calls up the body’s natural painkillers, endorphins, into the brain and nervous system and often provides deep relaxation as it relieves muscle tension, spasm, and stiffness, which can all contribute to pain. Experts suggest that tense muscles are usually deprived of oxygen, because the tightness reduces blood circulation to the area. Massage improves blood circulation, bringing with it the oxygen and other forms of nourishment that muscles need. Muscles then relax and pain often decreases.