Instead of popping a pill, get a massage to relieve the pain.

Instead of popping a pill, get a massage to relieve the pain.
SCRIPPS HOWARD
Many view massage as a perk of a pampered lifestyle, but it can actually be an important tool for maintaining your overall health and beauty. But don't just look to your local day spa for massage therapy -- doctors' offices, chiropractic practices and fitness centers offer massage as well.
Next time you think about popping a pain pill, make an appointment with your massage therapist instead. Soreness and stiffness result when overworked muscles produce waste products like lactic acid, and massage can help by improving the circulation to the muscles to flush these out.
Tense muscles can also compress blood vessels and nerves, and massage leads to a gradual release that eases the pain. Let your massage therapist know if your pain is caused by stress, an injury or surgery.
Improved movement
Lymph is the milky-white fluid that drains waste from the cells. The pumping effect of muscle contraction moves lymph through the body, and massage (as well as exercise) can facilitate the process. The pressure associated with gentle massage also increases blood flow that can help reduce swelling after surgery.
The manual pressure of massage increases blood flow to the treated areas. The increased volume of blood brings more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles to help repair and revitalize the body.
Massage helps the skin by stimulating the sebaceous and sweat glands. Increased blood flow also has a positive effect on the skin by supplying the cells with nutrients and oxygen. More blood at the skin's surface also lends a rosy, healthy glow.
Positive attitude
Massage has been shown to increase the body's production of "feel-good" endorphins and the mood-regulating hormone serotonin while decreasing levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Stress revs up the nervous system, leading to restlessness, hyperactivity, anxiety, muscle tension, cardiovascular stress and even digestion problems. Massage helps reduce stress and your body's reaction to it, bringing your nervous system back into harmony.