Massage Therapy and The Immune System

Whether it is the middle of summer or peak flu season, boosting your immune system is incredibly important for your health. A weakened immune system increases your risk of diseases and infections, slows the speed at which your body heals, and even increases stress.

One simple treatment method that promotes the health of your immune system is massage therapy. Below are 4 ways massage therapy boosts your immune system, giving your body the protection it needs.

Less Stress and More Sleep

Massage is widely known to decrease stress and improve sleep, but many do not realize stress and lack of sleep can impact your immune system. Increased amounts of stress and sleep deprivation are linked to a weakened immune system, leading to getting sick more often and your body having trouble fighting infections and diseases.

Promoting Circulation

The circulatory system supports the immune system by carrying immune cells to their destinations. When circulation is compromised, the immune system cannot function as well as it should, increasing your risk of viruses and infections. Massage therapy relaxes the tension in your muscles which directly enhances the proper flow of blood through the body. In addition, massage can move blood through congested areas in the body which releases pressure and supports both the circulatory and immune systems.

Flushing Toxins

Healthy circulation in the body not only helps distribute immune cells, but it helps your body flush toxins in the body that inhibit the immune system. From the air we breath to the food we eat, our bodies are constantly coming in contact with unwanted substances that our body must metabolize. Massage therapy is a great way to help your body flush these toxins and decrease the toxic load on your immune system.

Increasing Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that are made in your bone marrow. These cells are an important part of the lymphatic system—part of your immune system—and help your body fight diseases and infections. Studies show that massage can increase the level of lymphocytes in the body, giving your body a heightened defense.

Interested in trying massage therapy to boost your immune system? Arapahoe Chiropractic & Acupuncture Center offers massage therapy in Centennial, Colorado. We also provide chiropractic care and acupuncture for immune system health. Call us or contact us online today!