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Massage Therapy Effects On Digestion, Immunity, And Circulation
Digestion: Massage Therapy can help to improve digestion by increasing peristalsis (this is the involuntary contraction of the muscles that helps food to move along the intestine). By increasing peristalsis, massage therapy can help to reduce constipation. If you suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, a regular program of massage therapy could be particularly effective in helping to reduce pain caused by constipation and cramps. Massage Therapy also encourages the release of enzymes which help to break down food. This not only makes it easier to digest, but also increases the absorption of nutrients. Improved absorption of nutrients can have a positive effect on all the systems of the body. Immunity: The lymph system carries lymph (milky fluid containing waste products which may include bacteria, viruses, and toxins) around the body. The system helps to destroy waste products and remove them from the body via a system of ducts and vessels. Massage Therapy helps to encourage circulation and drainage in the lymph system, helping it to work more efficiently to remove waste and toxins from the body. This is particularly beneficial if you are trying to fight an infection Circulation: The techniques used in Massage Therapy will improve your circulation by speeding up the movement of blood around your veins and arteries. Your Massage Therapist will sometimes apply techniques with more pressure when moving towards the heart. This increased pressure can help the heart to pump blood more efficiently around the body. Blood carries oxygen and nutrients that are needed throughout your body. Oxygen and nutrients provide you with energy and help to repair and regenerate cells. Your circulatory system also works with your lymphatic system to remove waste from the body. By improving circulation, Massage Therapy can help your body to work more efficiently. Written by: Natasha Middleton

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Spine-health is purely a patient education website. Our mission is simply to provide the most comprehensive and unbiased, professional information to help people with back pain. All articles are written by medical professionals and have been peer reviewed by the site’s medical advisors prior to publication.

Health Information Search Services (Treatment Options) Would you benefit from information and treatment options for your specific disease or condition? The following organizations may be able to assist you research this information. AHHA does not make value judgments distinguishing these organizations or the data they provide. You are responsible for verifying what is appropriate for you.