John Yates, Ph.D., author of A Physician's Guide to Therapeutic Massage, states that massage can benefit such conditions as muscle spasm and pain, spinal curvatures (lordosis, scoliosis), soreness related to injury and stress, headaches, whiplash, temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ), and tension-related respiratory disorders such as bronchial asthma or emphysema. Massage can also help reduce swelling, help correct posture, improve body motion, and facilitate the elimination of toxins from the body. Lymphatic massage, for example, can move metabolic waste through the body to promote a rapid recovery from illness or disease. Other studies show that massage can be used as an addition in the treatment of cardiovascular disorders and neurological and gynecological problems, and can often be used in place of pharmacological drugs.

  According to the Quebec Task Force on Spinal Disorders, massage is the most frequently used therapy for musculoskeletal problems, and is particularly useful in controlling pain.

  Gertrude Beard, R.N., R.P.T., former Associate Professor of Physical Therapy at Northwestern University Medical School, summarizes the findings of numerous research studies on the therapeutic effects of massage. Studies indicate that massage:

• Has a sedative effect upon the nervous system and promotes voluntary muscle relaxation.
• Is effective in promoting recovery from fatigue produced by excessive exercise.
• Can help break up scar tissue and lessen fibrosis and adhesions which develop as a result of injury and immobilization.
• Can relieve certain types of pain.
• Provides effective treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions by increasing lymphatic circulation.
• Helps reduce swelling from fractures.
• Affects circulation through the capillaries, veins, and arteries, and increases blood flow through the muscles.
• Can loosen mucus and promote drainage of sinus fluids from the lungs by using percussive and vibratory techniques.
• Can increase peristaltic action (muscular contractions that move waste through the system) in the intestines to promote fecal elimination.

  Researchers have also found that certain massage techniques can trigger reflex actions in the body to stimulate organs. Beard adds that these should only be applied under the direction of a knowledgeable physician or physical therapist.