Top Ten Ways Massage is Needed for Healthy Living: Part Three

6 – Relieves Pain

We all have heard massage reduces pain, but how? Pain can be caused by ischemia (lack of blood and oxygen in the muscle), trigger points (hyper-sensitive areas that can refer pain to other areas of the body), nerve entrapment or compression, postural distortion,  insufficient nutrition for cellular metabolism, and stress. Massage addresses these conditions by increasing blood flow, removing waste products, warming and softening the tissues, and reducing stress. Neuromuscular Therapy specifically treats trigger points. Massage also works in reducing pain by interrupting the pain cycle of the nervous system and releasing enkephalin, serotonin, endorphin and dynorphin. The seratonin and enkephalin released by the body inhibit the pain receptors of the nervous system and brain helping block the pain messages. The endorphins have an analgesic effect.

5- Boost Immune System

Researchers from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center reported that a single massage produced measurable changes in the immune system and endocrine system of healthy adults. The researchers recruited 53 physically healthy volunteers who had no mental disorders and divided them into two groups: 29 of the volunteers received 45 minutes of Swedish massage while 24 received 45 minutes of light touch massage. Prior to massage, all the participants were fitted with intravenous catheters so that blood samples could be taken at intervals before and after massage. Results showed significant changes in lymphocytes, white blood cells that are key players in immune system responses and a decrease in inflammatory cytokines, which are immune system mediators. "This research indicates that massage doesn’t only feel good, it also may be good for you," said study researcher Dr. Mark Rapaport, chairman of the department of psychiatry and behavioral neurosciences, at Cedars-Sinai;"People often seek out massage as part of a healthy lifestyle but there hasn't been much physiological proof of the body’s heightened immune response following massage until now." Massage naturally increases the activity level of the body's natural killer cells and decreases the number of T-cells, which improves the body's immune functioning overall leading to a healthier life.

Introductions

Heather Lloyd, LMT performing chair massage

Hi. I am Heather Lloyd, owner and massage therapist of Heather Lloyd Massage. I have been a licensed massage therapist since December2004.  I received an Associates of Occupational Sciences Degree in Therapeutic Massage from Heritage Institute in Fort Myers, FL.  I offer mobile massage services to South Fort Myers, Estero, and Bonita Springs including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Pregnancy, and Chair massage.

I am often asked why massage? There was not a single motivating factor but many.  First and foremost was the desire to be able to spend more time with my son. I found myself unhappy in a retail management position that left very little time for family. I have always wanted to be in a career that could help people as well. I enjoyed rubbing my friend’s shoulders and they would always tell me I was in the wrong line of work.  So, after a lot of thought and reflection I chose to return to school and find a new direction in my life. I fell in love with massage and began a journey towards a healthier lifestyle. That was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I have realized how important massage is to a healthy life style and want to share with you. Please feel free to share your thoughts and ask questions as well. After all, this blog is for you.