The physiological effects of MT include reducing pain via the pain gate theory and stimulating the descending inhibitory tracts. Indirectly, MT can reduce pain via inhibiting muscle spasms, which reduce tension on the periarticular structures, lower intraarticular pressure, or reduce nociceptor activity.
The biomechanical effects of MT include altering tissue extensibility and fluid dynamics, thus facilitating repair and remodelling. Temporary increases in tissue extensibility following MT occur through the mechanisms of creep (tissue lengthening following the application of a constant force or load) and preconditioning (elongation following repeated loading). More permanent length changes need sufficient force to produce microtrauma, which elongates collagenous tissues. Repetitive movement of joints alters fluid dynamics, reducing intra-articular pressure and increasing the rate of synovial blood flow and synovial fluid clearance, thus improving range and movement quality.
The psychological effects of MT or any therapy which has direct physical contact, such as massage, produce a response to the 'laying on of hands'. This placebo response (a response produced by a mechanism with incidental ingredients or components which have no remedial effect for the disorder but result in a positive effect of treatment) is enhanced by 'learned expectancy' (previous experience of a stimulus establishes a habitual direction of response) and the therapeutic benefits of the patient-therapist interaction and relationship.
Complementary and alternative therapy (CAT) refers to therapeutic practices not part of standard medical care.
Integrative therapy is an approach to medical care that combines conventional medicine with CAT practices that are shown to be safe and effective. This approach often stresses the patient's preferences and attempts to address the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of health.
Conventional medicine (also known as allopathic medicine) is a system in which health professionals who hold a degree in medicine treat symptoms and diseases using drugs, interventions, etc. and are regulated professionals. It is also practised by other health professionals, such as nurses, pharmacists, physician assistants, and others. Some conventional medical care practitioners are also practitioners of CAT.
Standard medical care is a treatment that medical experts accept as a proper treatment for a certain type of disease, and that is widely used by healthcare professionals.
Complementary therapy is used along with standard medical treatment but is not considered by itself to be standard treatment. Less research has been done for most types of complementary medicine.
Alternative therapy is used instead of standard medical treatment. Less research has been done for most types of alternative medicine.
The US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) uses this distinction:
When a non-mainstream practice is used together with conventional medicine, it's considered "complementary".
When a non-mainstream practice is used instead of conventional medicine, it's considered "alternative".
There can be overlap between these categories. For example, aromatherapy may sometimes be used as a complementary treatment and, in other circumstances, as an alternative treatment.
Before starting any complementary therapy, alternative therapy or manual therapy, you should:
Talk with your primary healthcare provider (your GP, doctor, physio, etc) first before making an appointment or starting therapy. This is especially important if you have underlying health issues (including traumas or injuries).
Never stop taking any prescribed medication without first consulting your traditional healthcare provider (your GP, doctor, physio, etc).
Ask your current healthcare provider (doctor, physio, GP) for their recommendation for a type of therapy to complement your standard medical care.