Your Immune System

By Emily Attard, LMT and Desiree Gagne, MA, OTR/L

Massage therapy has been shown to have several benefits for the immune system, which plays a crucial role in protecting the body from illness and disease. You may have heard it said that “massage removes toxins from the body.” This statement is not scientifically accurate. A “toxin” is defined as an “antigenic poison or venom of plant or animal origin, especially one produced by or derived from microorganisms and causing disease when present at low concentration in the body.”

What massage has been shown to do is encourage the movement of lymph fluid within the body tissues and lymphatic system. Your lymphatic system and lymph nodes are considered your “immune system” and help filter out cellular and metabolic waste. Lymph nodes are filtering stations and produce lymphocytes (white blood cells). Massage therapy stimulates the body to release toxins from where they may have built up and then filters them to excrete in various ways.

Here are some of the ways that massage therapy can support a healthy immune system:

1. Reduces stress: Stress can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to illness. Massage therapy has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels, which can help boost immune function.
2. Increases circulation: Massage therapy can help improve blood and lymphatic circulation. Massage may help address the buildup of lactic acid in the muscles, which is produced in the muscles during strenuous activity. A build-up may lead to muscle soreness if left unchecked. By improving circulation, this in turn also helps your organs perform their natural detoxifying functions. This can help support immune function by reducing the burden on the immune system.
3. Stimulates the lymphatic system: The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs. Massage therapy can help stimulate the lymphatic system, which can improve immune function.
4. Improves sleep: Lack of sleep can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to illness. Massage therapy can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, which can support immune function.
5. Reduces inflammation: Chronic inflammation can contribute to a range of health problems, including immune dysfunction. Massage therapy has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing, which can support immune function.

Massage therapy can be a valuable tool in supporting a healthy immune system by reducing stress, improving circulation and lymphatic function, promoting relaxation and sleep, and reducing inflammation. Regardless of age or activity levels, consistent massage therapy appointments can promote good mental and physical health!

Contact Rehability today to schedule your massage and get you on the path to feeling better!

DISCLAIMER: This article is intended to provide general health information and is not intended to provide individual-specific medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.