Change of Seasons and Immune Health...

With the changing of the weather and cold and flu season about to begin I thought this would be a great time to share some helpful information regarding the body's immune system and some of the ways that massage therapy can affect it's functions. 

Massage has long been known to relieve muscle tension and reduce the effects of stress. Less well known are the benefits of massage on immune system health. 

While once considered an indulgence, scheduling a massage at your local spa, is now regarded as a restorative therapy. Numerous studies have confirmed the effects of massage on immune function. In particular, massage improves the function of certain white blood cells and reduces production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, the immune system benefits from self-care. As a treatment for specific conditions, massage is often covered by medical insurance.

Unlike the immediate relief massage brings to sore muscles and arthritic pain, the effects on the immune system are subtle and develop over time. And while, one massage offers immune system benefits, regular massages show sustained effects when it comes to immune function.

Health Benefits of Massage

• Helps Fight Infection—Massage increases the activity of white blood cells that target and destroy infectious agents. With regular massage, the immune system is strengthened rather than stimulated and it becomes more robust.
• Modulates Immune Function—Massage strengthens the immune system, restoring balance. Massage increases antibody production in immune deficiency and reduces auto antibody production in autoimmune disease.
• Benefits Autoimmune Diseases—Besides reducing auto antibody production, massage reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are responsible for inflammation and pain.
• Reduces Pain in Arthritis---Besides reducing production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor alpha, massage increases production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, effectively reducing inflammation and pain.
• Reduces Depression—Massage increases the production of both endorphins and serotonin. Increased levels of these biochemicals effectively reduce symptoms of depression and contribute to well-being.
• Stimulation of the Lymphatic System—The lymphatic system is comprised of the thymus gland, tonsils, spleen, adenoids, lymph nodes and lymph fluid as well as lymphatic vessels. The lymphatic vessels carry clear lymph fluid that circulates throughout the body, removing waste products, degenerated cells, and accumulations of fats and proteins. Lymph vessels lie beneath the surface of the skin and are stimulated by massage. This results in improved lymphatic circulations.

Physical Benefits of Massage

• Improves Natural Killer Cell Function—Numerous studies show that massage increases the cytotoxic function of white blood cells known as natural killer (NK) lymphocytes. This results in improved NK cell function including increased resistance to infection.
• Increased Endorphin Production—Massage and acupuncture are known to increase production of endorphins and enkephalins. Increased production of these neurotransmitters has a modulating effect on the immune system. Similar to decreased T-cell production, increased endorphins increase the body’s ability to fight infections while improving immune function in autoimmune disease.
• Reduces Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines—Reduces pain and inflammation
• Increased Serotonin Levels—by increasing serotonin levels, massage increases feelings of well-being and alleviates symptoms of depression.

With all of the great benefits who wouldn't want to keep up with regular massage?