What influence does massage have on our muscles? The effect of massage on our muscles can be divided into three parts – influence over the muscle tone and the quality of the muscles.
How does massage influence our muscle tone? Muscles are rich in proprioceptors through which they are linked with the central nervous system. They are two types:
- Muscle spindles – these are sensory receptors within the belly of a muscle which serve as detectors of the length of this muscle
- Golgi tendon organ – it is a proprioceptive sensory receptor organ that is located at the insertion of skeletal muscle fibres into the tendons of skeletal muscle. It provides the sensory component of the tendon reflex
These receptors transmit information to the relevant spinal cord segments. Moreover, the latter are connected to certain dermatomes, organs and systems. This way, by influencing the muscle spindles and the receptors in the ligaments, the massage has an effect on the muscle tone. The central nervous system regulates the blood flow throughout the body. During a massage the blood vessels expand and this increases the flow of oxygen and glycogen, which helps burn fat more easily.
How does massage influence the quality of our muscles? It contributes to the maintenance and the increase of the qualities of contraction, elasticity, agility and strength. As a conclusion, when the muscles are tired, they can restore their working energy faster after a massage, rather than just a normal rest.
How does massage influence our joints and ligaments? The influence of massage over our joints and the tissues around them is also related to their supply with oxygen and nutrition. Since the cartilage is poor in blood vessels, it is nourished by synovial fluid. Regular massage improves the elasticity of ligaments.
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