|
| Circulatory System |
|
| |
Lymph Circulation
|
|
Massage increases lymph flow in
normal tissues through the pumping action created by compression
and decompression of tissues. |
|
Tissue stretching has an effect
on the rhythm and coordination of the contractions of the
valves in the lymph system.
|
| |
Blood Circulation |
|
Compression of tissues during
massage empties venous beds, lowering venous pressure, and
increasing capillary blood flow. |
|
Stimulation of deep tissue
receptors triggers changes in venous or arteriolar tone
via the sympathetic nervous system.
|
| |
Blood Pressure and
Heart Rate |
|
Massage seems to cause an
initial increase in arterial blood pressure and heart rate
followed by a decrease in both.
|
| Nervous System |
-
(The nervous system can be stimulated or sedated depending
on the type of massage applied.)
|
|
Stimulation of peripheral nerve
receptors can have effects on vasomotor nerves, internal
organs, pain perception, and joints and muscles of the areas
being massaged.
|
Muscle
& Connective Tissue
|
|
Stretching tissues, breaking
up and realigning certain types of scar tissue. |
|
Muscle relaxation, relief from
spasms and cramps, and increased range of motion through
effects on specialized nerve endings.
|
Skin
|
|
|
Increases blood circulation to
the skin and activates sweat and oil glands; hastens the sloughing
of dead skin cells; and lubricants may provide nutrients to
the skin. |
