Which of the following is an effect of massage therapy on the recipient?

Massage therapy has a variety of physiological and psychological effects on the recipient. One significant effect is the reduction of pain. This occurs through several mechanisms, including the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. Massage can improve blood flow to sore muscles, helping to alleviate tension and promote healing in affected areas.

Additionally, massage therapy can influence the nervous system by reducing the perception of pain through the Gate Control Theory, where the stimulation of soft tissues can block pain signals sent to the brain. Overall, many individuals report significant decreases in pain after receiving massage, making it a valuable therapeutic approach for managing discomfort associated with various conditions.

While other options relate to beneficial aspects of massage therapy, they do not encapsulate this particular widespread and impactful effect as strongly as the reduction of pain does.