In 2021, a Harvard research project finds that massage helps injured muscles heal faster and stronger. A further and subsequent study in 2023 finds that the key to healing muscle injuries in elderly is mechanotherapy.
Massage therapy can play a supportive role in muscle growth, although it doesn’t directly cause muscles to grow. Rather, it aids in the muscle-building process through several mechanisms.
One of the primary benefits of massage for muscle growth is its ability to improve circulation. As a massage therapist or a massage chair applies pressure and kneads the muscles, it enhances blood flow to the targeted areas. This increased circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the muscle tissues, which is crucial for optimal muscle function and recovery. It also helps remove metabolic waste products like lactic acid, reducing muscle soreness and fatigue. With improved nutrient delivery, muscles are better equipped to repair and grow after a strenuous workout.
