The Science of How Massage Impacts the Body
Anyone who has experienced a massage knows it feels great. Massages have long been used for relaxation and pain relief purposes. But is that pain relief all in one’s mind, or does massage actually affect the body in positive, measurable ways? Research has shown the benefits to massage go much further than a perceived lessening of pain.
Here’s the science of how massage impacts multiple systems in the body.
Musculoskeletal system
The musculoskeletal system is comprised of our muscles, joints, bones, and all the connective tissue between these systems. Massage most directly affects this system. As muscles are manipulated, they relax and release tension. This allows for more normal blood flow and more efficient use of oxygen. Relaxed muscles also allow for a greater range of motion in joints and restore normal function.
The pressure of massage draws blood to the area, which improves circulation all around. This aids in cell growth, particularly in the skeletal system. Another benefit for joints is that the pressure breaks down scar tissue, which allows healthy tissue to regrow and disconnects adhered joints and tissue.
Nervous system
Massage has a positive effect on the nervous system as well. One of the biggest effects is the release of endorphins. Massage stimulates the release of serotonin and dopamine, which lessens feelings of pain, increases relaxation, and reduces overall feelings of stress.
Additionally, muscle relaxation helps the nervous system by reducing nerve compression. Tense muscles constrict the nerves around them and create pain and inflammation. As massage works and loosens muscles, nerve pain lessens and overall inflammation is reduced.
Circulatory system
Massage also assists the circulatory system — your heart, lungs, and all the veins and arteries that carry blood throughout your body. Massage lowers blood pressure and increases both blood flow and drainage of lymphatic fluid.
Multiple effects of massage work together to reduce blood pressure. First, endorphins released by the nervous system relax blood vessels. Larger, more relaxed blood vessels mean lower pressure and lower blood pressure means the heart doesn’t have to pump as hard.
With specific techniques, massage therapists can increase lymphatic drainage by using light pressure to draw lymph from swollen tissues into the lymph nodes. Increased lymphatic drainage brings decreased muscular soreness, fatigue, and weakness.
Massage feels wonderful because it impacts so many bodily systems. From relaxed muscles to increasing circulation to a release of endorphins, massage brings benefits to the whole body and mind.