There is clear evidence that massage was used by physicians in both the Greek and Roman dynasties and, centuries before, during the ancient civilisations of Egypt and China. It has certainly stood the test of time, - and is just as effective now as ever before

Massage cannot lay claim to cure illness, but it should not be dismissed as a luxury either. It makes you feel good, outside and in. Gentle massage is painless and effective, treating people for a wide variety of complaints including asthma, arthritis, backache, joint and muscle sprains, headaches, cramp, high blood pressure, insomnia, and rheumatism.

Some of the known affects of massage include;

• Cause changes in the blood. The oxygen capacity of the blood can increase 10-15% after massage.
  
• Affect muscles throughout the body. Massage can help loosen contracted, shortened muscles and can stimulate weak, flaccid muscles. This muscle "balancing" can help posture and promote more efficient movement. Massage does not directly increase muscle strength, but it can speed recovery from the fatigue that occurs after exercise. In this way, it can be possible to do more exercise and training, which in the long run strengthens muscles and improves conditioning. Massage also provides a gentle stretching action to both the muscles and connective tissues that surround and support the muscles and many other parts of the body, which helps keep these tissues elastic.
  
• Increase the body's secretions and excretions There is a proven increase in the production of gastric juices, saliva, and urine.
  There is also increased excretion of nitrogen, inorganic phosphorus, and sodium chloride (salt). This suggests that the metabolic rate (the utilisation of absorbed material by the body's cells) increases.
  
• Affect the nervous system. Massage balances the nervous system by soothing or stimulating it, depending on which effect is needed by the individual at the time of the massage
  Enhance skin condition. Massage directly improves the function of the sebaceous (oil) and sweat glands, which keep the skin lubricated, clean, cooled. Tough, inflexible skin can become softer and suppler.
  
• Affect internal organs. By indirectly or directly stimulating nerves that supply internal organs, blood vessels of these organs dilate and allow greater blood supply to them.

Knowing about the physiological effects of massage makes it possible to better understand the health and fitness benefits of massage.

As part of an overall treatment regime, massage can be very effective in preparing a joint for any manipulation that might be required. Massage can also help to ease any soreness in the tissues after manipulation.