Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) 2025 - Free MBLEx Practice Questions and Study Guide.

Massage has been shown to have a positive effect on blood circulation, leading to increased blood flow. This occurs due to several mechanisms. Firstly, the physical manipulation of muscle and soft tissues during a massage directly stimulates the circulatory system. This stimulation causes local vasodilation, which is the widening of blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow to the area being massaged.

Additionally, massage can enhance the efficiency of the lymphatic system, which works in conjunction with the circulatory system to clear waste products and improve overall fluid balance in the body. The rhythmic movements of a massage can help to propel blood and lymph through their respective vessels, further facilitating increased circulation.

Furthermore, the relaxation response induced by massage can reduce stress levels, which in turn can contribute to better cardiovascular health and improved blood flow. The overall effect of these factors means that massage therapy is recognized for its ability to enhance circulation throughout the body, making increased blood flow the correct answer.