Massage Therapy & The Immune System

The following is recent published information regarding Massage Therapy & The Immune System.

Most of the research during the last decade related to the effects of massage, has centered primarily on both cancer patients and those with compromised immune systems due to AIDS.  Although the rigor varies and the proverbial caveat of “more rigorous research is still needed” is ever present, there has emerged a fairly clear and consistent picture that massage bolsters the immune system.

Multiple forms of massage including Swedish massage; myofascial induction; “standard massage”; and “skin rubdown with a dry towel”; all demonstrate positive immunological changes.  However, in one study where light touch was used as a control, there was no change in biomarkers suggesting there is some minimal pressure threshold that must be met before immune function is modulated.  Study groups varied in age from children to senior, and from immunologically compromised AIDS and cancer patients to healthy subjects, yet the outcomes were similar.  In addition to improving immune function, there is evidence that massage reduces stress, pain, depression, anger, and improves sleep.  Massage therapy can play a valuable role in your health and wellness program.