Massage therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body. These tissues include the skin, muscles, and tendons. More than half the body’s weight is muscle. Muscle’s main function is to help the body move. Muscles give the body shape and protect the internal organs. Tendons attach muscle to bones. Nerves connect muscles to the brain. When a muscle receives a signal from the brain through the nerve, it contracts and pulls the tendon that causes the bone to move. Muscles and tendons can become stiff and sore from repetitive movements, too much resistance to movement, inactivity, stress, bad posture, injury or surgery. Massage is the manipulation of muscle and connective tissue through the application of pressure. Scientists do not know exactly how massage therapy helps, but there is evidence that massage provides physical, physiological, and psychological benefit to many that use it.

Pressure on skin and muscle can loosen stiff tissue. Heat also loosens stiff muscle tissue. Friction and increased blood flow from massage heat and loosen muscle. Massage therapy also releases many certain chemicals that help with relaxation, blood circulation and the removal of toxic substances that build up in sore muscles. Much of the benefits of massage therapy involve the sensation of touch by the therapist. People feel comforted and relaxed when they are massaged. Relaxation can help improve the immune response, countering the negative effects of stress. Massage may actually help improve the ability to fight off infection. There are many different types of massage techniques, each with their own unique benefits. Most people use massage to relax and loosen stiff or sore muscles. Massage also improves the circulation of blood and lymph. Lymph is a milky substance that moves waste products out of the body. Massage can help improve joint movement and range of motion. Massage can help with recovery from fatigue and minor pains. Massage therapy stimulates the glands of the skin, helping to keep skin cool and moist.

Although massage therapy is considered safe for most people, there are circumstances where massage may not be recommended. People who have blood clots or circulatory diseases may wish to consult their doctor before having a massage. Massage may actually move a clot. A clot in the lungs may be fatal. Other cardiovascular or heart disease patients should also ask their doctor if massage is safe for them. Massage should not be done on burns or infected skin, herpes lesions, bruises, swellings or open cuts. Massage should not be done over areas of a broken bone or one that healed poorly. People with severe back pain or high fever or chills should also check with their doctor first. Massage during pregnancy should only be done by therapist with specialized training in pregnancy massage, especially during the first 3 months of pregnancy when the risk of miscarriage is highest.

There are many benefits from massage therapy. Massage is safe in most cases. People with special medical conditions should consult their doctor before having a massage.

Reference: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tutorials/massagetherapy/am019101.pdf.

WATCH OUR REMODEL PROJECT PROGRESS ON OUR WEB SITE, www.taospharmacy.com! WATCH ALSO FOR OUR NEW TOTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER OF TAOS WEB SITE, www.taoshealthandwellness.com, COMING SOON!

[Return to Archive Index]

[PageTop]