General Benefits of Massage Therapy

Skeletal System

1. Maintains posture and body balance.
2. Reduces muscular tension that may eventually cause structural problems.
3. Increases the flow of nutrients to the bones.
4. Promotes elimination of waste matter.

Muscular System

1. Relieves muscle tension.
2. Increases the supply of blood and nutrients to the muscles.
3. Helps to eliminate waste matter from muscles. (especially lactic acid)
4. Helps restore tome to flaccid muscles and partially compensates for lack of exercise and inactivity because of illness or injury.
5. Eliminates or prevents muscle adhesions resulting from injury.
6. Increases flexibility and strength of joints.

Circulatory System

1. Improves blood circulation and relieves congestion.
2. Increases supply of oxygen and nutrients to cells throughout the body.
3. Eases the strain on the heart by helping to return blood to vital organs, especially in the cases of forced inactivity due to illness or injury.
4. Pushes the movement of lymph through the body, thereby strengthening the immune system and eliminating toxic wastes.

Nervous System

1. Can either sedate or stimulate the nervous system, depending on the techniques used.
2. By balancing the nervous system, massage affects all the systems of the body.

Respiratory System

1. Improves breathing patterns.
2. Aids in the relief of many long-term respiratory difficulties such as asthma and bronchitis.

Digestive System

1. Improves the function of the liver
2. Acts as a mechanical cleanser, pushing out waste products, particularly in those who suffer from constipation.