Remedial massage induces a relaxation response which lowers the heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure, boosts the immune system and generally decreases the physical effects of stress.
Studies have found that massage reduces the production of compounds called cytokines, which play a critical role in inflammation. The suppression of inflammatory factors enhance cell recovery and the reduction of pain-related pro-inflammatory cytokine can ease pain and support recovery. Massage has been shown to stimulate mitochondria, the powerhouse within cells that convert glucose into the energy, that are essential for cell function and repair.
Benefits of massage therapy:
- Reduces physical and emotional stress
- Improves circulation, which nourishes cells and improves waste elimination
- Relieves tight muscles (knots) and other aches and pains
- Releases of nerve compression (carpel tunnel, sciatica)
- Releases Endorphins to induce a sense of wellbeing
- Shortens recovery time from muscular strain – flushing the tissue of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic waste
- Enhances oxygenation of the brain & relaxes the nervous system
- Greater flexibility and range of motion
- Enhances energy and vitality
- Supports in recovery of tendon, ligament and muscles
Massage therapy often treats:
- Sports injuries
- Tension headache
- Stress
- Frozen shoulder
- Nerve entrapment
- Muscular spasms
- Fibromyalgia
- Poor circulation
- Arthritis
- Pregnancy
