Classical massage is one of the oldest known healing methods of mankind. Its origins go back to the year 2600 BC. In Europe, it was only rediscovered and described as a form of therapy in the course of the 16th century by the physician Paracelsus. It was developed in its present form by Pehr Henrik Ling (1776-1839) in Stockholm.
The interaction of the different parts of the body such as bones, muscles, tissues and organs has a great influence on the general mobility and therefore on the health of the body. Classical massage is characterized by its stretching, pulling and pressing movements. These act on the skin, connective tissue and muscles and are combined and adapted to suit the needs of each individual. A distinction is made between the following effects, some of which are closely intertwined and mutually influence each other:
- mechanical effects
- biochemical effects
- reflective effects
- psychogenic effects
- immunological effects
Mechanical are the effects produced by the movement of the hands on the skin. The massage causes a shift – a mobilization – of the different types of tissue against each other, for example the skin against the body fasciae or the different layers of the muscles against each other. Furthermore, the blood circulation is stimulated and the lymph flow is activated. This results in an improved removal of metabolic products as well as an improved supply of oxygen and nutrients to the cells. As a result, adhesions of the connective tissue (fasciae) can be loosened.
The biochemical effects of massage are described as the release of various substances such as inflammatory mediators, endorphins and Serotine and their impact on tissue circulation, wound healing and pain inhibition.
The mechanical stimuli of a massage stimulate the receptors and free nerve endings in the skin and muscles, which cause a wide variety of reflective effects. These have a pain-reducing effect and regulate the muscle tone.
The psychogenic effect leads to a general relaxation and loosening. This positive effect of massage influences most of the other effects.
The influence of massage on the immune system has been studied since 1996. The studies show that classical massage has positive effects on the immune system, reduces stress hormones and improves wound healing.
Classical massage is therefore effective for a wide range of conditions and complaints, such as:
- Acute or chronic muscle complaints
- Back and neck pain and discomfort
- Spinal syndromes
- Diseases and aches and pains in the musculoskeletal system
- Consequences of injuries or operations
- Arthroses and rheumatic diseases
- Vascular diseases (e.g. circulatory disorders)
- Diseases of the digestive organs
- Migraine and headaches
- Paralysis, cramps, sensory disturbances
- Stress
- Mood swings
Classical massage is not (or only partially) indicated in the case of external and internal injuries, bone fractures, unclear abdominal injuries and consequences of accidents, fever and inflammations. Otherwise, the classical massage has a loosening effect on connective tissue and musculature and promotes blood circulation. It also relieves tension, stimulates the circulation and the activity of the internal organs, and can be used for preventive health care.