Lower limb massage in humans increases local perfusion and impacts systemic hemodynamics
Luís Monteiro Rodrigues, Clemente Rocha, Hugo Alexandre Ferreira, Henrique Silva
Abstract
The impact of effleurage, a well-known massage procedure used in human rehabilitation, in the lower limb hemodynamics, is demonstrated. When applied in a sole limb, massage increases skin microcirculatory flowmotion not only locally but also beyond, affecting systemic hemodynamics. This observation is an interesting example of the efficacy of cardiovascular integration mechanisms involving distal microcirculatory homeostasis. The proposed methodology allows a mechanistic view over skin flowmotion regulation, being applicable to further explore massage and its impact on microcirculatory physiology.
Topics & Concepts
PhotoplethysmogramPerfusionMedicineMicrocirculationLaser Doppler velocimetryMassageHemodynamicsCardiologyInternal medicineBlood flowPathologyComputer scienceAlternative medicineComputer visionFilter (signal processing)Thermoregulation and physiological responsesHeart Rate Variability and Autonomic ControlCardiovascular and exercise physiology