Massage relaxes muscle tissue, which reduces painful contractions and spasms. Massage can also reduce nerve compression. When muscles are contracted, they sometimes compress the nerves around them. When these muscles are relaxed, the nerves are no longer compressed and operate more efficiently, improving muscle function.
The pressure created by the massage moves blood through the congested areas. The release of this same pressure causes new blood to flow in. The squeezing and pulling also flushes lactic acid from the muscles and improves the circulation
Massage stimulates the lymphatic system and increases lymph flow. A more efficient lymphatic system can reduce the effects of delayed onset muscle soreness and decrease swelling, muscular fatigue, weakness and pain.
Soft tissue injury is an umbrella term for injuries effecting muscles, tendons and/or ligaments primarily. Ignoring the swelling and pain associated with these injuries can lead to more serious problems. Massage therapy is a treatment that can help relieve the pain of soft tissue injuries and aid in faster recovery times.
Massage is a safe, natural way to help relax the muscles and bring movement back into the joints.
It can also increase range of motion in the surrounding muscles, reduce swelling by moving fluid out of the area, and activate the muscles.