University of Iowa Health Science Relations and
Nicole Nisly, MD
Associate Professor of Internal Medicine
First Published: 2004
Last Revised: January 2004
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

Feeling achy, run-down, and just plain tired? A massage may be exactly what you need.

For thousands of years, people around the world have practiced the techniques of massage. In its early days, massage was believed to be essential in promoting good health and healing, and it has much of the same reputation today.

"Massage can be used as both a preventive and healing technique," says Nicole Nisly, MD, head of UI Hospitals and Clinics Complementary and Alternative Medicine Clinic. Most people receive massages to relax, reduce stress, or relieve muscle aches.

Massage affects the muscles, nervous system, and circulatory system through a series of pressures and actions applied rhythmically in nature to the soft tissues of the body. "These techniques have been helpful in fostering relaxation and reducing pain and anxiety," Nisly says.

The touch associated with massage is thought to be healing by helping patients feel a sense of caring. It also has been used to encourage communication and relationships in several other settings. Others have found that massage has been useful in restoring normal joint movement. Studies have shown that massage reduces anxiety, depression, and pain, and increases weight in premature infants.

With over 80 different types of massage, varying degrees of intensity are available. Swedish massage is a more gentle technique, while a deep tissue massage is much more active.

Massage therapists can be found in most areas. Be sure to find a therapist who is licensed. If you have questions about massage, ask your physician to recommend a therapist in your area and the type of massage that may be appropriate for you.