11 brave (a.k.a. crazy) men agreed to exercise to exhaustion, then allow biopsies of their quadriceps * muscles for analysis, just so we could find out. (Yikes!)
* Quadriceps - a.k.a. Vastus Lateralis - a.k.a. thigh muscles
The first biopsy was taken at rest.
After exercising till exhaustion (an hour +) a 10 minute massage was provided for only one leg. A second biopsy was then taken on both quadriceps.
The men then rested for a 2-1/2 hour period of recovery, at which point a third biopsy was taken - again from both legs.
As you probably know, when we exercise, small microscopic tears occur in muscle fibers. The repair of those tears is actually what forms thickness and growth. However, before that happens, those tiny micro tears cause inflammation, soreness and/or pain. It takes time for the healing process to happen.
That said, based on this study, it takes less time when you incorporate Massage!
Massage was found to reduce inflammation by reducing the production of pain-related pro-inflammatory cytokines. The repair of cells was also assisted due to the stimulation of mitochondria - which convert glucose into the energy essential for cell function and repair.
Side Note: Anti-inflammatory drugs reduce swelling, but may actually retard healing.
Bottom line ~
Massage Promotes Overall Good Health 😀
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