MASSAGE AFFECTS THE BODY AS A WHOLE

 NERVES

Tends to normalize hyperactivity of nerves, that is, it has a sedating effect.  Massage can also be used to stimulate the nervous system depending on the technique used.  Massage also provides pain relief.

 MUSCLE TISSUE

Massage enhances the nutrition of muscles, accelerates recovery from fatigue by the removal of lactic acid and relieves muscle spasm.  Massage does not increase strength, muscle bulk or muscle tone.

 BLOOD

Venous circulation is stimulated.  Capillaries are dilated by direct pressure and by a neurological reflex.  The red blood cell count increases, hemoglobin levels increase and the oxygen carrying capacity of blood is facilitated.

 LYMPH CIRCULATION

Lymph is a milky white fluid that carries impurities and waste away from the tissues and passes through gland-like structures spaced throughout the lymphatic system that act as filtering valves.  Its circulation depends on gravity, muscle contraction, passive movement and external pressure.  Massage can dramatically aid the movement of lymph.

 SKIN

The secretive function of the skin is improved when the sebaceous glands are stimulated.  Skin temperature increases 2-3 degrees as a result of friction and improved circulation.  The texture of the skin is improved though increased tissue oxygenation and because massage aids the removal of dead cells from the skin surface.

 BONES

While massage is not recommended for 2-3 weeks after a fracture, after this period, if the fracture is healing normally, massage increases the deposition of callus (the fibrous tissue around a fracture) and improves the healing rate of the soft tissues.

 METABOLISM

Massage increases the secretion of urine, through pressure over the kidneys and kidney neurological reflex.  It increases the excretion of sodium, phosphorous and sodium chloride.  There is a cumulative improvement in metabolic function.  Massage has no effect on blood ph, oxygen consumption, pulse rate or blood pressure except indirectly as a result of relaxation.

Kim Markiecki, LMT

419-356-4832

Massagebykm@aol.com