Which statement best describes massage effects?

• A. Massage increases muscular flexibility
• B. Massage decreases muscular flexibility
• C. Massage removes lactic acid
• D. Massage increases heart rate

Answer: (A)

Massage affects soft tissues by increasing tissue temperature, boosting blood flow, and reducing muscle tension, which together improve the elasticity of muscle fibers and fascia. This combination makes muscles and connective tissue more compliant, allowing joints to move through a greater range of motion and thus increasing muscular flexibility. The idea that massage “removes lactic acid” isn’t supported by evidence; lactic acid is a metabolite cleared by circulation and metabolism, not something massage uniquely eliminates. Additionally, massage tends to promote a relaxation response and can lower heart rate rather than increase it. For these reasons, the effect that best describes massage is the improvement of muscular flexibility.