What is massage therapy?

The human body is made up of more than 650 muscles. Over time, these can become tense or injured due to a major trauma to the body such as a car accident, a fall, and/or surgery; or secondary to more minor but frequent traumas such as poor posture, repetitive movement, and/or poor ergonomics. This may lead to aches and pains.

The practice of massage therapy is the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissues and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain.

Some of the many benefits of massage therapy include:

• decreased muscle tension
• improved overall circulation and immune system function
• stimulation of the lymphatic system
• reduction in the release of stress hormones, which may lead to reduced anxiety and depression
• increased joint mobility and flexibility
• improved recovery of soft tissue injuries
• overall feeling of relaxation