Massage therapy is a hands-on manipulation of the soft tissue and joints of the body. Massage has many diverse physiological effects, which are primarily due to the therapist's hands moving over the body. The different movements can physically stretch muscles, ligaments, tendons and fascia, encourage the circulation through the tissue, inhibit muscular spasms and be either sedating or stimulating to the nervous system.

The basic goal of massage therapy is to help the body heal itself and to increase health and well-being. Massage improves circulation, which increases blood flow, bringing fresh oxygen to body tissues. This can assist the elimination of waste products, speed healing after injury, and enhance recovery from disease.