Complementary Alternative Cardiovascular Medicine

158 Alternative Cardiovascular Medicine
on by massage therapy has, in the author’s experience, an admonishing
effect on pain.
Massage may inhibit pain by interfering with inceptive information
(the “gateway” concept), which enters the spinal cord through stimulation
of cutaneous thermoreceptors and mechanoreceptors. Sensations
that are produced by massage have the potential to suppress painful
stimuli. Massage is believed to mechanically effect pain receptors (e.g.,
golgi tendon organs) and alter the neural signals. This is termed “neuromuscular
reeducation” (30).
THE EFFECTS OF MASSAGE
FOR THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
Massage slows down the rate of respiration via stimulation of the
parasympathetic nervous system. The mechanical loosening and discharge
of phlegm in the respiratory tract is increased with the rhythmic
alternating pressures induced by massage. Tapotement (cupping) and
vibration on the rib cage are often used to enhance this effect. Phlegm
loosening and discharge are further enhanced when combined with certain
postural body positions to promote drainage. By freeing tight respiratory
muscles, massage can be used to increase vital capacity and
pulmonary function (31).
CARDIAC MEDICATIONS
Aspirin, Coumadin, and other antiplatelet drugs are often associated
with easy bruising and bleeding. Manual methods, such as compression,
friction, deep sustained pressure, or trigger-point work, should generally
be avoided in patients on these medications. Light pressure massage may
be valuable. Patients who are taking diuretics may complain of pain,
muscle weakness, and cramping or spasms. These are common symptoms
that are treated by massage and may be a sign of electrolyte imbalance.
Calcium channel blockers and other vasodilators may cause
swollen feet and ankles. Caution is advised, because some of these patients
may be at an increased risk for developing DVT (32).
THE EFFECTS OF MASSAGE
FOR THE URINARY SYSTEM
Massage, especially abdominal work, increases urine output possibly
by activating dormant capillary beds and recovering lymphatic fluids for
filtration and enhancing parasympathetic activity. Massage increases
the excretion of nitrogen, inorganic phosphorus, and sodium chloride.
The levels of these metabolic wastes are elevated in urine after massage (33).