Massage Therapy Essay

547 Words3 Pages
Massage Therapy According to ancient writings, the conventional practice of massage therapy has been used by many cultures including Greece, China, Japan, Europe, India, Rome, and the Arabic nations for thousands of years. Massage therapy was introduced to the United States in the 1850’s but due to advances in medicine and technology it fell from favor. It was not until the 1970’s when it became more widely accepted as a complimentary alternative medicine (NCCAM, 2010). Massage, a mechanical response, triggers involuntary nervous system relaxation when touch and pressure are applied to soft tissues. Even though, massage is not greatly understood it is believed to improve blood and lymph circulation by manipulation of tissues and release of chemicals from the relaxation response. Increased circulation will improve oxygen and waste exchange in muscle tissues; which may aid in reducing inflammation and removal of excess fluids (Burgan, 2013). It is also believed by some that massage therapy relaxes muscle tissue and reduces nerve compression which in turn relieves painful contractions and spasms. Organs may also benefit from massage. When bones, muscles, and nerves are distressed it can cause organ distress and dysfunction. For example, menstrual cramps can intensify low back pain, and low back pain can intensify menstrual cramps. Therefore, massage can help to relieve the discomfort in muscle and organs ( Burgan, 2013). Another theory of the affects of massage on the body includes “the gate control theory”, where massage stimulation helps block the pain signals sent to the brain. Other theories suggest that massage may stimulate the release of endorphins (endogenous opioids) or serotonin which leads to pain reduction and a feeling of well- being (NCCAM, 2010). It is difficult through scientific research and trials to prove the efficacy of massage
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