Massage relaxes the muscles and helps to reestablish proper tonus through its effect on the neuromuscular reflex pathways. Massage is known to affect the neurotransmitters of the brain and increase endorphin secretion in particular. Massage can reduce nerve entrapment through the release of soft tissue or muscular binding. Massage can reduce nerve root compression caused by muscular tension. Massage increases tissue fluid and lymphatic circulation thus reducing swelling and enhancing the immune and filtering activities of this system.
Massage increases venous and lymphatic flow.
Massage reduces swelling by enhancing lymphatic circulation. Massage can facilitate elimination through the large intestines by mechanically stimulating peristalsis and improving tone. Massage helps to reduce tension in the skin and adjoining tissues as well as increasing its circulation and improve its nutrition. Massage deepens and normalizes the breathing pattern through relaxation, and release of tension in the breathing structures, both the rib cage and the muscles of respiration. Massage can be used to relieve congestion in the lungs through percussive and compressive movements.