MASSAGE AND AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE
MASSAGE AND AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE
In the last few years I have seen an increased number of clients complaining of extreme fatigue, digestive issues, tingling in extremities, systemic inflammation, loss of range of motion and trouble sleeping. Most of these complaints alone would not be too concerning but when experienced all at the same time, they raise a concern.
WHAT ARE AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES AND HOW DO THEY IMPACT THE BODY?
Autoimmune diseases target the immune system, causing it to attack the body’s own cells and tissues instead of outside invaders. There is a wide range of conditions that fall under the category of autoimmune diseases. Here are some of the more common ones that I work with on a daily basis:
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Type 1 diabetes
Lupus
Psoriasis
Crohn’s disease
Celiac Disease (super familiar with this one as my daughter has it)
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
All of the above-mentioned diseases will cause autoimmune cells to attack different tissues in different parts of the body, so the exact impact will vary depending on the exact condition. However, some symptoms are common across the board:
Fatigue
Swelling
Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
Digestive issues
Rashes
Fever
Sleep disturbances
HOW CAN MASSAGE HELP WITH AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE?
Massage provides relief for a variety of conditions with benefits including a reduction in pain, anxiety, tension, depression, blood pressure and increase in serotonin levels to name a few!
Currently there is no known cure for autoimmune diseases. With that said, those who struggle with an autoimmune disease can find that managing the symptoms with massage therapy allows for a more comfortable daily life! Let’s look at the ways massage can help.
Reduction in Pain
Pain is one of the more prevalent issues related to autoimmune diseases. Massage targets pain in the joints and muscles by reducing tension in the muscles and the fascia.
Improved Circulation
One of the key ways to reduce inflammation is to improve circulation. Massage has been shown to help improve circulation throughout the body and to specific parts such as the back or feet. This helps reduce inflammation and pain.
Digestive Help
Massage improves digestion by helping the body produce digestive enzymes and by improving movement within the intestines. The relaxing nature of massage can help reduce constipation.
Improvement in Sleep
Massage is deeply relaxing and triggers the parasympathetic nervous system in a way that helps the body produce serotonin. Making it perfect for helping regain restful sleep.
Stress Relief
Those with autoimmune diseases tend to have a higher prevalence of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and hopelessness. While a massage can’t undo these conditions, it can help improve the mood by reducing the production of stress-causing hormones like cortisol and increasing the production of feel-good hormones like endorphins.
Over the years I have noticed that each and every person reacts and manages their autoimmune disease differently. I LOVE working with this population because I get to learn something new every day!
Here is how I recommend getting started with massage when you have an autoimmune disease:
1. Find a massage therapist who has experience working with these conditions, like me :)
2. Start slow. If you have never had a massage before, start with a 30 minute session to see how your body reacts.
3. Make a commitment to consistency. One massage does not provide enough information to decide if it is helpful. Most of the time you’ll start noticing longer-lasting effects after your third session.
If you are ready to experience how massage therapy can enhance your daily life as you navigate the challenges of living with your autoimmune disease, reach out to me! Together we’ll come up with an individualized plan that matches your needs!
Be Well,
Keyu