Effects of Massage On The Musculoskeletal System

Effects of massage on the musculoskeletal system
One of the most common reasons for getting a massage is relief from
muscle tension. Massage releases built-up tension in the muscle through
increasing both the blood flow into the area and the removal of toxins
and wastes out of the area. Massage produces a number of desirable
effects on the muscles; regular massage treatments can increase muscle
firmness and elasticity, decrease inflammation, reduce fatigue and
stiffness, and relieve muscle spasms and soreness. This improved
muscle tone in turn reduces the amount of physical stress on bones
and joints. Massage can even strengthen muscles in very weak limbs
incapable of voluntary movement.
Massage can soothe joint pain caused by injury, inflammation and
everyday exertion by promoting increased blood flow to the affected
areas. Regular massage can break down scar tissue, allowing injured
muscle tissues to heal more rapidly with less scarring and thickening
of connective tissue. This in turn results in increased joint mobility and
range of motion. SCHEDULE YOUR MONTHLY BODY MAINTENANCE MASSAGE AT WWW.INDOPAKMASSAGE.COM
Effects of massage on the nervous system
Massage can:
●
Stimulate sensory receptors (either stimulating or soothing nerves
depending on the techniques used).
●
Stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting
relaxation and reducing stress.
●
Reduce pain through the release of endorphins.
Massage can either relax or invigorate the client, depending on their
needs. Swedish massage, effleurage and other slow-stroking movements
can have a sedating effect, activating the parasympathetic nervous
system and stimulating the vagus nerve to slow down the heart rate
(Noonan, 2018). Massage reduces hyperactivity of the nervous system,
lowering the level of electrochemical noise and encouraging better
organ and organ system integration.
As might be expected, faster and firmer movements and techniques
are used in sports massage as stimulation prior to a competition. While
most pre-event massage is for stretching muscles and increasing blood
flow, soothing massage may also contribute to an optimal performance
by relaxing a stressed-out competitor. Be alert to client sensitivity, as
some deep-tissue work that provides a sense of relief and peace during
or after treatment may also cause increased sensitivity or even some
degree of pain during the massage.
Because the nervous system regulates all other body systems, the effects
of massage on the nervous system can also influence the operation of
other body systems. Many of the endocrine and autonomic nervous
system’s operations that are not easily altered through conscious effort.
Massage can modify the individual’s unconscious systems, potentially
changing the way stressful events affect the sympathetic nervous system
(Noonan, 2018).