Massage Therapy - System Effects

During my time as a massage therapist I have come to learn that many clients and people I meet along the way get the impression that massage therapists only work on specific areas and that massage is only good for relaxation. I like to keep people informed on the many effects and benefits of massage. In this two part blog I will explain firstly the effects and benefits and in my next blog go into various areas and conditions that massage therapy is used to treat.
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Massage not only helps physically with the body but also psychologically with the mind. Massage has effects on every system in the body, and Registered massage therapist spend years in training in a classroom and hands- on to learn the best techniques to treat a variety of conditions safely and effectively.

The following are some effects of massage therapy on the various systems of the body;

Pain Control

Massage has effects on a person’s pain levels in various ways. Many people experience pain from muscles that are experiencing tightening(spasm) and reduced local circulation in the area/ massage therapy can increase blood flow to the area of pain giving the client relief from pain. Massage therapists can also do manual stretching techniques on the tight areas or direct compression on trigger points that will help increase range of motion and decrease pain.

Circulation

Massage therapy effects the blood flow in areas worked on. Local circulation is temporarily increased when massage in applied. If a muscle is experiencing some wasting due to a trauma or surgery etc. Then massage has been proven to improve the tissue health and speed the process of restoration of the muscle. Massage can decrease blood pressure; therefore helping with stress and tension.

Lymphatic System

Massage improves lymphatic flow by using specific trained techniques that pump lymphatic fluid through lymphatic capillaries. Massage can reduce swelling, easing pain related to the swelling. Another little-known massage benefit is lower risk of scar tissue formation.

Musculoskeletal System

Massage therapists spend a great deal of time learning about the muscles bones and joints and ligaments of the body.
Not only the names of the areas but what their functions and actions are also. We learn various techniques to help increase range of motion by lengthening shortened muscles. Reducing trigger points and adhesions with in the connective tissue of the body.

Respiratory Function

Massage therapists are taught various techniques that can help to loosen mucus and clear passageways.  Massage can help to Reduce stress levels of people who have asthma, therefore potentially reducing the frequency of attacks.

Immune system

Some studies support the effects of massage on the immune system. One study had shown an increase in fighter cells in some clients who were getting regular massage and fighting off immune disorders. stress decreases the immune response, resulting in illness. Massage reduces stress therefore improving immune function.

Psychological Effects
There are numerous studies and documented accounts of how massage helps psychologically.
Massage can reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Massage gives clients an overall sense of well-being.


The massage therapist at Kingston West Family Chiropractic have over 15 years combined experience working with an array of clients with various conditions. We are excited and knowledgeable about our profession and are more than willing to answer any questions that you may have about how massage can benefit your life.

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