For many of us, going for a massage is one of life’s many pleasures and it’s an excellent avenue for self-care… but for others, it can be particularly useful at helping them manage the symptoms they have as a result of a chronic health condition of some kind.
Massage therapy itself involves the manipulation of soft tissue and muscles all over the body to help relieve pain, improve mobility and range of motion, improve circulation, prevent injuries and to help support mental and emotional health and wellbeing.
There are many reasons why people would feel compelled to see a massage therapist, but here are just four of the conditions that the practice can help with.
Sciatica
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or compressed, with symptoms including numbness, weakness, tingling and sharp burning pains, typically down the back of one leg and in the posterior region. Massage can help by reducing muscle tension and relieving pressure on the nerve.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a very common condition that leads to joint pain and inflammation, affecting millions of people across all age groups, including children.
Symptoms include tenderness, stiffness, restricted movement, weakness, muscle wastage and warm red skin over the affected area. Massage can help by reducing pain and stiffness, promoting relaxation, releasing tension and improving blood flow, as well as range of motion.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes pain throughout the entire body, with other symptoms including increased sensitivity to pain, stiffness, headaches, difficulty falling or staying asleep, fatigue, difficulty concentrating and memory issues. Massage can help by reducing pain and stiffness, as well as supporting sleep quality.
Diabetes
Diabetes is where your blood sugar levels get too high, with your body unable to break down glucose into energy, either because there is insufficient insulin to move glucose or the insulin that is produced doesn’t work properly. Massage can help by helping to reduce anxiety and stress, which can potentially help improve blood glucose levels.
