Improves tone, flexibility, and functioning

Increases resting length and range of motion

Increases blood supply, hyperemia – increased oxygen and nutrients

Relieves ischemia/pain – usually leads to pain because of toxin build up

Increases temperature, metabolism, and cellular exchange

Decreases spasticity (spasms)

Decreases adhesions and scarring and realigns fibers

Releases myofascial gluing

Decreases toxins and metabolic wastes in tissues

Decreasing recovery time from injury (post acute) or over exertion (lactic acid)

Prevents or delays atrophy from disuse

Increases red blood cell count, hemoglobin, and platelets

Promotes intercellular and lymphatic drainage (reduces edema)

Improves venous return of blood

Increases capillary vasodilatation

Improves metabolic exchanges

Lowers blood pressure

Slows heart rate