Effects of Massage/ Bodywork Therapy
Cardiovascular effects
-proven to decrease blood pressure and heart rate
-decreases in systolic, diastolic, and arterial pressure
-increase blood flow to the skin
Lymphatic System and immunity
-improves lymphatic drainage
-reduces edema and lymphedema
-promotes increase in lymphocyte levels
Musculoskeletal System
-decrease tension in muscle-tendon unit and neural response
-increase ROM
-decrease DOMS
-decrease fatigue
-decrease pain (activates parasympathetic nervous system)
Connective Tissue
-improves healing time
-reduces scar tissue
-aids tendon healing
-assists in the treatment of tendonitis or ligament injuries
Nervous System
-increases dopamine
-increases serotonin
-decreases nervous system excitability
-improves sleep
-decreases anxiety, depression, and stress
-activates parasympathetic response
Endocrine System
-influences levels of multiple hormones
-improves production/absorption of insulin
-produces hormones
Skin
-reduces scarring after burns
-reduces eczema
-promotes overall skin tissue health
Psychological effects:
-reduces anxiety, depression, stress
-promotes feeling of wellbeing
-encourages mind-body connection
-useful in hyperactivity disorder
-useful in treating emotional/physical trauma