There are numerous conditions that cause a metabolic imbalance in the soft tissues. Some of these can be treated with massage. The purpose of massage here is to produce one of the physiological, mechanical or psychological effects. In some types of medical and surgical conditions, massage is an important part of the treatment, but it is only one of the forms of physical therapy that should be used. It is usually given in combination with other forms of treatment. It is also true that it may not be useful in all diseases or injuries.