The link between Massage therapy and your Immune System

By Massage Therapist, Paige Single

As winter and the flu season have fast approached us you may be looking for ways to improve your immune system to stay healthy this winter.

Did you know doing strenuous exercise can suppress your immune system, especially if you are on a low energy dieat? So how can massage therapy help boost your immune system back up????

Studies have shown that taking a blood test before, during and after having at least a 45min remedial massage can increase your levels of T-lymphocytes and B-Lymphocytes (these cells are also know as white blood cells and are responsible for fighting disease and infection). The research has also found that after the massage there was a decrease in the hormone cortisol (a stress hormone) and lower levels of cytokines (molecules that play a role in inflammation). Massage also causes a large decrease in Arginine Vasopressin, a hormone believed to play a role in aggressive behaviour.  Interestingly, none of the results varied by age, gender or race in the study subjects.

Massage for wellness also serves as an important immune system booster.

This being said a regular massage will help boost your immune system especially when you compete and train for sport.

Other benefits of massage include:
– Stimulation of the lymphatic system
– Improved circulation
– Release muscle tension
– Improve range of motion
– Muscle recovery and injury management
– Reduce stress and anxiety
– Relive tension headaches
– Increase flexibility
– Improve digestion

Gold Coast Physio & Sports Health has Massage Packages for purchase that give you significantly discounted rates on Massage, click here for more information or phone 07 55 00 6470 to book (or Book Online here)