Blood circulation dysfunction is one of the most common challenges that people face after sustaining a spinal cord injury (SCI). According to a study on vascular functions, “cardiovascular disturbances are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in both acute and chronic stages of SCI”. Vascular dysfunctions also can increase the risk for deep-vein thrombosis, or blood clots in deep veins. Massage helps to improve blood circulation in the body. A study at the University of Alberta found that improved blood flow or inhaling more oxygen helped to increase cord oxygenation and improved motor functions in rat test subjects that experienced compromised spinal blood flow due to SCI.

A person’s mental and physical health also are connected — this is particularly true for people with chronic illness and those that have sustained catastrophic injuries. A study on the effects of massage on patients with spinal cord injuries shows that the patients who underwent massage treatments experienced increased development of muscle strength and improved wrist range of motion.