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Massage makes most people feel good


What I think is probably true about massage:
  • it can help with short term pain relief
  • it can provide reassurance and psychological support
  • regular massage when you are problem free may have a beneficial effect on health through promoting relaxation
  • touch can have a powerful effect on people
  • 'TLC' is a good thing

What I am not so sure about:
  • that massage can 'release' or 'free' muscles, tissues and adhesions
  • that it can 'improve' circulation (the superficial redness produced is probably just a reaction in the skin)
  • that it removes toxins (or even cellulite!)
  • that it can prevent injuries, except possibly on a psychological, perceived basis.

I believe in the usefulness of manual therapy (it's part of my job - I am biased) but I think we need to challenge some of the assumptions about its effects. In some ways it is a little like medicine. When there is a short term problem, short term use of massage and other techniques may be warranted in helping getting you back on track. Ideally, it should be avoided long-term for a specific issue unless there is a clear reason for using it.

I think the mechanisms behind any effect massage may have are probably neurological, psychological and/ or placebo rather than physiological. (In as much as we can tease these things apart.) Is that a bad thing? No, as long as that is clear and  the reasons and rationale for doing massage are understood. It is a supportive intervention to the basics (exercise, sleep, diet, fun etc) and it makes most people feel good. That in itself can be a powerful factor.
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