How massage affects the nervous system
The regulatory function performed by the nervous system is one of the most important in the human body. It has three divisions:
- the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord;
- the peripheral nervous system, which includes the nerve fibres connecting the brain and spinal cord with the rest of the body;
- the autonomic nervous system, whose function is to regulate the processes taking place in the internal organs.
- The autonomic nervous system, in turn, consists of two divisions: the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.
Massage therapy affects both the peripheral and central nervous systems. When the skin is worked on, the nervous system is the first to respond to mechanical stimulation. A stream of impulses is sent to the central nervous system from numerous nerve endings that perceive pressure, touch and changes in temperature.
During massage, stimulation of the skin, joints and muscles generates impulses that excite cells in the cerebral cortex and stimulate the activity of the corresponding centres.
Massage movements can have a profound effect on the peripheral nervous system, helping to reduce or relieve pain, improve nerve conduction, support recovery after injury, and prevent or reduce vasomotor, sensory and trophic disturbances. Gentle, slow stroking reduces the excitability of the tissues being treated and has a calming effect on the nervous system.
With more intensive, rapid movements, the excitability of the massaged tissues increases. The atmosphere in which the treatment is performed is also important: subdued lighting, a comfortable temperature and pleasant, calm music can enhance the relaxing effect of massage therapy.
Many studies have reported that massage therapy may increase dopamine and serotonin levels, which are associated with feelings of wellbeing, and reduce cortisol, a stress hormone. It has also been reported that restorative massage can promote the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals.
Massage sessions may be used as part of care for certain nervous-system conditions. A properly performed treatment may help achieve effects such as:
- relieving anxiety and insomnia;
- relaxing muscles and normalising tone through neuromuscular reflex pathways;
- influencing neurotransmitter activity in the brain;
- reducing compression of nerve roots caused by muscle tension;
- stimulating receptors that influence vasomotor nerves, internal organs, joints and muscles.
Depending on the technique used, massage can produce either a relaxing or stimulating effect. This can help support balance in the autonomic nervous system.
How massage affects the circulatory and lymphatic systems
Massage therapy can help dilate functioning capillaries and open reserve capillaries, improving blood supply to the area being treated. This may enhance gas exchange between the blood and tissues. Under normal conditions, 31 capillaries are active in 1 mm² of a muscle’s cross-section, while after massage their number may increase to 1,400. As reserve capillaries open during treatment, blood can be redistributed more effectively throughout the body, which may have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system.
Massage also influences lymph circulation. Lymph flow is approximately 4–5 mm/sec, although it may vary depending on different factors. Massage techniques, including stroking and more intensive movements, can promote the emptying of lymphatic vessels and accelerate lymph flow. In addition to their direct effect on local lymph flow, massage movements may influence the lymphatic system as a whole, helping to support the tone and vasomotor function of lymphatic vessels.
How massage affects subcutaneous fat
Massage therapy affects metabolism overall and therefore also influences fatty tissue.
How massage affects metabolism
The treatment can influence metabolic processes in different ways. Massage movements may increase the elimination of mineral salts from the body, which can have a positive effect on the functioning of internal organs and the body as a whole. Levels of haemoglobin, red blood cells and white blood cells may increase in the blood. At the same time, lactic acid and organic acid levels do not necessarily rise, which may help explain the beneficial effect on tired muscles. Increased metabolic activity may also help reduce fat deposits.
How massage affects the respiratory system
Rubbing and kneading movements applied to the muscles of the back, neck and the area where the diaphragm attaches to the ribs can help improve respiratory function and relieve fatigue in the respiratory muscles. Regular massage treatments performed over a period of time may also have a beneficial effect on the smooth muscles of the lungs by forming conditioned reflex responses.
The main effect of massage techniques performed on the chest, including tapping and rubbing movements, is a reflex deepening of breathing.
