Manual therapy influences far more than muscles and joints. Emerging research shows it affects the spinal cord, brainstem, autonomic nervous system, and immune pathways involved in pain. From pain gating to descending inhibition, from C-tactile touch to autonomic regulation, this blog breaks down the neurophysiological mechanisms behind hands-on treatment—and explains why manual therapy remains such a powerful tool for calming a sensitised nervous system.

Salutogenesis shifts the focus from disease to the origins of health. At The Flow Clinic, we use sports massage, osteopathy, and movement therapy to build resilience, support recovery, and help you move towards long-term wellbeing.

In this blog, we’ll break down what the research says in plain English, so you know what to expect from your treatment — and where sports massage fits into a smart recovery or performance plan.