How Does Massage Work?

Massage therapy is the physical manipulation of soft tissue which helps to loosen tightness and relieve pain and discomfort caused by muscle tension or injury. It is thought that it works by increasing blood circulation thereby bringing oxygen and other nutrients to body tissues. It may also lower the body’s stress response by reducing levels of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline and by increasing oxytocin.

Other benefits of massage on the body

Massage therapy also appears to enhance immune function, possibly through the same mechanism that leads to the reduction of the systemic stress response.