The Effect of Massage on Stress and Rehabilitation in The Military System

In today’s fast-paced world, leading military personnel are faced with inevitable health problems that can affect their physical, mental and psychological conditions. This study systematically evaluates the existing literature examining the effects of massage therapies on stress levels and physical rehabilitation of military personnel in the modern military system. It is emphasized that massage has evolved in different ways in both Eastern and Western cultures and has made significant contributions to modern medicine. Studies on modern massage therapies reveal positive effects such as lowering cortisol levels, reducing anxiety and increasing the overall quality of life of military personnel. The findings in the literature reinforce the stress-reducing and rehabilitation-supporting effects of massage. Physiologically, massage accelerates the circulatory system, facilitates the elimination of toxins, supports muscle recovery and reduces edema by regulating lymph circulation. Massage is of great importance for military personnel in reducing physical and psychological burdens resulting from intense physical activities and stressful tasks. It has been stated that massage is effective as a short-term treatment option, especially for posture disorders and back pain; it can also be considered as a low-cost health strategy. In addition, massage has been shown to support immune function and increase operational stress coping capacity in soldiers who must cope with traumatic injuries and psychological difficulties. The effects of massage, such as reducing muscle spasms, improving blood circulation and providing psychological relaxation, increase both task performance and individual endurance. In conclusion, massage therapy is an effective method in reducing soldiers’ stress levels and supporting physical rehabilitation processes.