Massage is the manual rubbing and kneading of the body's soft tissues to stimulate circulation and promote relaxation of muscles. Many forms of massage are usedin use throughout the world, including Swedish, deep tissue, Tui Na, Hawaiian, and others. Massage helps the muscles relax by stimulating a reflex response of the nervous system. The application of smooth, steady, rhythmical massage can relieve tension and soothe sore muscles. This decrease in muscle tension causes the muscle to become more relaxed and elastic. Also, massage's effect on the circulatory system is beneficial for the healing of soft tissue injuries.

Massage's ability to aid in the recovery from soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains, is an important use of massage. Many soft tissue injuries are not serious enough for doctor or hospital for treatment; but they still may cause some discomfort and disability long after the initial injury. Massage...