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Inflammation is an immune response in bodily tissues that occurs as a result of infection or injury. In addition to causing uncomfortable symptoms, inflammation may increase the risk of certain diseases. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce inflammation to prevent discomfort and improve overall health. Here's what to know about inflammation and practices, including massage therapy, that can minimize it.

How Does Inflammation Affect Health?

When you experience an injury or infection, your immune system sends white blood cells to protect and heal the affected area of the body. These cells release molecular signals that increase blood flow, open blood vessels, and release toxins to fight pathogens, irritants, or foreign objects. This process results in acute inflammation, which may include pain, swelling, and redness and is a normal part of the body's healing process.

However, inflammation may become chronic when white blood cells remain in the affected area for a prolonged period. As the body continues to fight persistent infections or injuries, surrounding tissues may become damaged due to the prolonged inflammatory response. Chronic inflammation can lead to diabetes, heart disease, or stroke

How to Reduce Inflammation 

massage

Since white blood cells may attack fat cells in surrounding tissues, you may be more susceptible to experiencing inflammation if you are overweight. Exercising and eating a healthy diet can assist with weight loss and reduce inflammation. Additionally, avoiding foods that trigger inflammatory responses such as red and processed meats, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars may decrease inflammation. Replacing these with anti-inflammatory foods such as fatty fish, fruit, and leafy green vegetables can also protect against inflammation. 

Since stress can cause diseases that result in chronic inflammation, reducing stress with massage therapy may prevent inflammation and its effects. Massage therapy using touch to relax trigger points or tight spots in muscular and connective tissues. This reduces stress associated with inflammation by lowering the heart rate and blood pressure while allowing the body to relax.

 

Reduce stress and inflammation with massage therapy from MassageLuXe. With three convenient locations in Edwardsville and Springfield, IL, or Carmel, IN, they provide therapeutic massage therapy using hot stone, deep tissue, and Swedish techniques. Call (618) 307-0093 (Edwardsville), (217) 701-4444 (Springfield), or (317) 203-3303 (Carmel) to book an appointment with a licensed massage therapist. Visit the website to learn more about massage therapy for relaxation and pain relief.

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