PHYSIOLOGIC EFFECTS OF MASSAGE.

Mechanical stimulation of tissues by rhythmically applied pressure and stretching. 
Often used to increase flexibility and coordination, decrease pain & neuromuscular excitability, stimulate circulation and facilitate healing

Effects of massage may be either reflexive or mechanical
Reflexive 
Effects sensory and motor nerves locally and some central nervous system response 
Mechanical
Makes mechanical or histological changes in myofascial structures through direct force applied superficially.
Attempts to exert effects through skin and superficial connective tissues 
Contact stimulates cutaneous receptors. 
Reflex mechanism is believed to be an autonomic nervous system phenomenon .
The reflex stimulus causes sedation, relieves tension, increases blood flow.
Effects on pain.
Modulates pain through gate control & b-endorphins
Effects on Circulation
Increase blood flow
Light touch causes transient dilation of lymphatics and small capillaries
Results in increased temperature in area
Increased lymphatic flow
Assists in removal of edema
May also impact lactate clearance
Effects on Metabolism
Does not alter general metabolism 
No alterations in acid-base equilibrium of blood
No significant effects on cardiovascular system
Assists in removal and hastens resynthesis of lactic acid 


Mechanical Effects.

Effects on muscle.

Mechanical stretching of intramuscular connective tissue 
To relieve pain and discomfort associated with myofascial trigger points
Increase blood flow to skeletal muscle 
To retard muscle atrophy following injury
To increase range of motion 
             Does not increase strength or muscle tone.

 Effects on skin.
Increase in skin temperature
Increases sweating 
Mechanically loosens adhesions and softens scar 
Stretches and breaks down fibrous scar tissue 
Breaks down adhesions between skin and subcutaneous tissue

       Psychological Effects of Massage.

Psychological effects of massage can be as beneficial as physiologic effects 
“Hands on” effect helps patients feel as if someone is helping them
Lowers psycho-emotional and somatic arousal 
          Tension & anxiety.


Autor Jaime Valenzuela C.
           Quiromasajista y Osteopata






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MASAJE VOGLER (O AL PERIOSTIO).

POSTURA.

LA GESTUAL EN LA APLICACIÓN DE LAS TECNICAS DEL MASAJE.