It is a well known fact that massage therapy can relieve everyday stress and tension. In addition, an increasing number of research studies show massage reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, increases blood circulation and lymph flow, relaxes muscles, improves range of motion, and increases endorphins (enhancing medical treatment). Although massage therapy does not increase muscle strength, it can stimulate weak, inactive muscles and, as a result, partially compensate for the lack of exercise and inactivity resulting from illness or injury. It also can hasten and lead to a more complete recovery from exercise or injury.