Dilates the blood vessel, improving circulation and relieving congestion throughout the body
Increases the number of red blood cells especially in cases of anemia, acts as a "mechanical cleanser", stimulating lymph circulation and hasten the elimination of wastes and toxic debris
Relaxes muscle spasm and relieves tension. Improves muscle tone and helps prevent or delay muscular atrophy resulting from forced activity by improving the general circulation, increase nutrition of the tissues. It is accompanied or followed by an increased interchange of substances between the blood and tissue cell, heightening tissue metabolism
Increases blood supply and nutrition to muscles without adding to their load of toxic lactic acid, produced through voluntary muscle contraction. It thus helps to prevent buildup of harmful "fatigue" products resulting from strenuous exercise or injury
Can compensate, in part for lack of exercise and muscular contraction in persons who because of injury, illness or age are forced to remain inactive. In these cases, massage helps return venous blood to the heart and so eases the strain on this vital organ
May have a sedative, stimulating or even exhausting effect on the nervous system depending on the type and length of massage treatment given
According to some authorities, may burst the fat capsule in subcutaneous tissues so that the fat exudes and becomes absorbed, in this way massage, combines with a nutritious but calories-deficient diet can be an aid in weight loss
Encourages the retention of nitrogen, phosphorus and sulphur necessary for tissue repair in persons convalescing from bone fracture
Increases the excretion (via the kidneys) of fluids and waste products of protein metabolism, inorganic phosphorus and salt in normal individuals
Stretches connective tissues, improves circulation, and nutrition and so breaks down or prevents the formation of adhesions and reduces the danger of fibrosis
Improves the circulation and nutrition of joints and hastens the elimination of harmful deposits. It helps lessen inflammation and swelling in joints and so alleviates pain
Lymphatic drain massage is good before and after surgery, helps to reduce edema (or dropsy) of the extremities, disperses the edema following injury to ligaments and tendons, lessens pain and facilitates movement