The Physiological and Psyhological Effects of Massage
Effects on the Skeletal System
· Massage can help increase joint mobility by reducing any thickening of the connective tissue and helping to release restrictions in the facia.
· It helps to free adhesions, break down scar tissue and decrease inflammation. As a result it can help to restore range of motion to stiff joints.
· Massage improves muscle tone and balance, reducing the physical stress placed on bones and joints.
Effects on the Muscular System
· Massage relieves muscular tightness, stiffness, spasms and restrictions in the muscle tissue.
· It increases flexibility in the muscles due to muscular relaxation.
· It increases blood circulation bringing more oxygen and nutrients into the muscle. This reduces muscle fatigue and soreness.
· It promotes rapid removal of toxins and waste products from the muscle.
Effects on the Cardiovascular System
Massage can:
· improve circulation by mechanically assisting the venous flow of blood back to the heart
· dilate blood vessels helping them to work more efficiently
· produce an enhanced blood flow; delivery of fresh oxygen and nutrients to the tissues is improved and the removal of waste products, toxins and carbon dioxide is hastened via the venous system
· help temporarily to decrease blood pressure, due to dilation of capillaries
· decrease the heart rate due to relaxation
· reduce ischaemia (ischaemia is a reduction in the flow of blood to body parts, often marked by pain and tissue dysfunction).
Effects on the Lymphatic System
Massage helps to:
· reduce oedema (excess fluid in the tissue) by increasing lymphatic drainage and the removal of waste from the system
· regular massage may help to strengthen the immune system, due to increase in white blood cells.
Effects on the Nervous System
· Massage stimulates sensory receptors: this can either stimulate or soothe nerves depending on the techniques used.
· It also stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping promote relaxation and the reduction of stress.
· Massage helps to reduce pain by the release of endorphins (endorphins are also known to elevate the mood).
Effects on the Skin
Massage can bring about:
· improved circulation to the skin, increased nutrition to the cells and encouraging cell regeneration
· increased production of sweat from the sweat glands, helping to excrete urea and waste products through the skin
· vaso-dilation of the surface capillaries helping to improve the skin’s color
· improved elasticity of the skin
· increased sebum production, helping to improve the skin’s suppleness and resistance to infection.
Effects on the Respiratory System
· Massage deepens respiration and improves lung capacity by relaxing any tightness in the respiratory muscles.
· It also slows down the rate of respiration due to the reduced stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system
Effects on the Digestive System
Massage can:
· increase peristalsis in the large intestine, helping to relieve constipation, colic and gas
· promote the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, which stimulates digestion.
Effects on the Urinary System
· Massage increases urinary output due to the increased circulation and lymph drainage from the tissues.
Physiological Effects of Massage
Massage can help to:
· Reduce stress and anxiety by relaxing both mind and body
· Create a feeling of well-being
· Enhance self-esteem
· Promote positive body awareness and an improved body image through relaxation
· Ease emotional trauma through relaxation