Massage Reduces Inflammation, Study Finds

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (WJBK) -- If you feel like you need a really good massage, here's an excuse to indulge yourself. A new study gives some scientific evidence that shows massage reduces inflammation while boosting energy in skeletal muscle.

Researchers had eleven healthy men exercise to the point of exhaustion on a stationary bike. One leg was then randomly massaged.

The team analyzed muscle biopsies prior to exercising, after ten minutes of massage and again after two and a half hours. They found massage reduced inflammation in muscle cells while also promoting energy transmission to the muscle.

Researchers believe pain reduction associated with massage may be similar to the reaction the body has to conventional anti-inflammatory drugs.

If you're interested in exploring the anti-inflammatory benefits of massage, click here for more information.