Massage therapy feels wonderful: it soothes tired and sore muscles, allows the body to relax, and eases stiffness. But did you know that massage therapy can help with dozens of health ailments? Problem areas can be targeted and manipulated by the massage therapist to provide relief and long term benefits to the patient. The massage practitioner manipulates the soft tissues to normalize them by applying pressure or moving parts of the body. Hopefully, the body will start to heal itself and the patient will enjoy increased mental and physical health. Massage therapy is mainly used to combat pain from injury, disease or overuse of muscles. Tension headaches, migraines or eye-strain can be aided greatly by massage therapy, as well as general muscle aches and pains from everyday use. People who suffer from chronic back pain may find a great deal of relief from massage therapy. Many women use massage therapists while they are pregnant, as pregnancy massage helps with some of the physical discomfort and can also make for shorter, easier labours. Waste can build up in the muscles (lactic acid) and cause a variety of problems: spasms, soreness and stiffness. With massage, blood flow improves and the tissues receive fresh oxygen. This stimulation causes nerve receptors to dilate, which also helps rid the muscles of waste products. Massage therapy also means better digestion as it increases the production of gastric juices, and can even lower blood pressure. Patients who have suffered an injury have shorter recovery times if they receive massage therapy, as it speeds healing and reduces scar tissue formation. For patients suffering from anxiety or depression, massage therapy reduces stress and promotes body relaxation. Symptoms of anxiety are reduced, and breathing deepens. Even patients going through drug or alcohol withdrawal help their recovery with the healing touch of massage. Other mental health benefits of massage therapy include calmer thinking and an awareness of the mind-body connection. People who work in front of a computer all week get massage therapy for neck and shoulder pain, and for those involved in sports or dance, massage aids with body pain from repetitious physical activity. Apart from the internal benefits of massage, functions of oil and sweat glands are improved which results in healthier looking skin. Tough skin can become smoother and more supple with repeated massage therapy. Many people with health conditions such as arthritis or even multiple sclerosis can use massage therapy to relieve pain. Muscles and connective tissue are stretched and become more elastic, which can aid with symptoms such as joint pain and limited mobility. However, it's imperative that anyone with a health condition consult with a physician first to determine if massage therapy is an option.