How does massage therapy improve circulation?

Massage therapy improves circulation primarily by relaxing the muscles around blood vessels. When muscles are tense, they can constrict blood vessels, limiting blood flow. By applying techniques that promote relaxation, massage allows these muscles to loosen and improve the diameter of the blood vessels, facilitating better blood flow.

Increased circulation from relaxed muscles not only enhances the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues but also aids in the removal of metabolic waste products, promoting overall health and recovery. This aspect of massage therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions that impair circulation or those recovering from injuries.

While techniques such as enhancing lymphatic drainage and increasing breathing depth can contribute to overall circulatory health, the specific mechanism of relaxing muscle tension directly impacts blood flow more significantly. Additionally, applying pressure to specific points can be beneficial but doesn't directly correlate with improving blood circulation as effectively as muscle relaxation.