Massage and the Skeleton
Before we explore the benefits of massage on the skeletal system, it is important to note that specific intervention on the hard tissue is out of scope for a massage therapist. Any form of relief given to the skeletal system is a byproduct of reducing tension on the muscular system. For true assessment of and intervention with skeletal issues, you should seek the skills of a chiropractor. Chiropractic care helps with pain relief, postural realignment, and improved range of motion in the joints. Tension and limited mobility in the soft tissues will have a negative effect on the skeletal system and this is why massage and chiropractic care pair so well.
The skeletal system is the framework of the body. It gives your body shape and creates a support system for your weight. The skeleton also acts as the anchor for all the tissues that connect to it. When the body moves, the muscles, connective tissues and bones all work together to push and pull various parts along every time you move. The framework of the skeleton has many delicate connections that are designed to work in fairly specific ways. When this system becomes unbalanced, it has a negative effect on the muscular system. Reducing tension on the muscles, tendons and ligaments via massage will also reduce excessive forces on the skeletal system. Range of motion techniques incorporated into general massage sessions will enhance the session’s benefits on both the soft and hard tissues. Including joint maniuplation in massage removes adhesions and encourages tissue pliability for better movement. This can be especially helpful after an injury when breaking down excessive scar tissue that can form which often limits proper functioning.
In addition to its function during movement, the skeletal system has three other important functions. First, it acts as armor for your organs: the skull protects the brain, the ribs shield the heart and lungs, and the vertebrae provides a protected space for your spinal cord as it travels down your body. Second, the bones create new blood cells via bone marrow. Bone marrow produces red blood cells (which carry oxygen and nutrients through the body) and white blood cells (which function to fight disease in the body). Finally, the bone tissue is responsible for storing and protecting a supply of important minerals in the body like calcium and vitamin D.
If you’ll remember, massage has a positive effect on the circulation system, allowing nutrient rich blood to move more freely through the body. This increase in circulation nourishes skeletal cells, particularly cells named osteoblasts that are responsible for making new bone as your body grows. This benefit does diminish as you age, but it is still an important benefit as it keeps the bone tissue strong and stable. In the case of fractured or broken bones, massage will stimulate the creation of new cells and aid in healing.
