Massage Therapy for Diabetes
Massage therapy is becoming a popular form of therapy that aims to treat or reduce symptoms of many illnesses and ailments. There is enough evidence to prove the various benefits and adverse positive effects of massage for people with diabetes. Not only is massage therapy increasing, but also survey evidence indicates that utilization will continue to rise as health plans provide reimbursement.
Massage is one of the oldest and safest methods to ensure good health, and has been recommended for diabetes for nearly 100 years. A massage therapist can use different forms of massage techniques like strokes, circular movement, kneading, tapping or vibration depending upon the need and physical condition of the patient.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease of impaired carbohydrate metabolism that results from inadequate production or utilization of the hormone, insulin. This vital substance is necessary to convert food into energy by facilitating the transfer of glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into the body’s cells.
There are several forms of diabetes, but they break down into two basic categories: insulin dependentand non-insulin dependent.
How does Massage Therapy help?
The use of massage therapy for diabetes has been growing drastically since the last few years. It improves blood circulation in the body and reduces the ill effects that are developed in diabetes such as hardening of arteries. When the blood circulation in the body improves, more oxygen and nutrients are provided to the body cells and this in turn improves the utilization of insulin by the cells. Massage therapy also significantly helps in improving the flexibility of tissue and joint mobility.
What are the benefits of Massage Therapy for people with Diabetes?
Massage therapy is known to reduce the symptoms of many illness and ailments, including diabetes. Lets take a look at some of the benefits of massage therapy for diabetes:
Improve Circulation:
There is no getting around the fact that massage can increase circulation and encourage the efficient transportation of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. This leads to improvement in the cells insulin uptake, due to the increased circulation.
Increased Relaxation:
Massage therapy releases endorphins that calm the nervous system and reduces the secretion of stress hormones. Relaxation may seem like a habit to pass time, but the benefits of relaxation should not be underestimated.
Increased Mobility and Flexibility:
The increase in blood sugar can result in the thickening of connective tissues. This is when massage therapy will help to increase mobility and tissue elasticity that have been hindered by the thickening effect.
It is best to consult a primary care physician before beginning a massage therapy. A diabetic patient who has diabetes in control can have a massage done only if their blood pressure is under control and also that they have no damage from diabetes. If you are looking for more information on the benefits of massage therapy, consult our team of specialists
