Seeking Massage Therapy Post-Stroke: Timing And Benefits

how soon after a stroke can you get a massage

Massage therapy can be an effective treatment for stroke recovery, helping to reduce pain, improve function and mobility, and decrease overall levels of anxiety. However, it is important to note that massage is not recommended during the first month after a stroke, as there is a high risk of a second stroke occurring within this time frame. This risk is lowered but still present during the first six months, so it is critical to consult a doctor before proceeding with any massage treatment.

Characteristics Values
When to get a massage after a stroke Never during the first month after a stroke, as there is a high risk of a second stroke within that time.
Type of massage Neuro-massage, Swedish massage, lymphatic drainage self-massage
Benefits Improved function/movement in paralysed or weakened body parts, pain relief, reduced stress and anxiety, improved sleep, increased range of motion, improved mood, better stability, improved blood circulation
Precautions Get approval from the patient's neurologist and other doctors; ensure the massage therapist has medical training and experience working with stroke patients; inform the therapist about the patient's medical history and medication

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Massage therapy can reduce the risk of a second stroke

Massage therapy can be an effective treatment for stroke recovery, helping to reduce the risk of a second stroke. Massage therapy can be used to treat a range of challenging symptoms that arise after a stroke, including paralysis or weakness on one side of the body, decreased sensation, increased muscle tone or spasticity, decreased coordination, and swelling and pain in the affected areas.

Massage therapy is a therapeutic technique that promotes the healing of muscles and other soft tissues by applying force to the tissues through palpation, rolling, kneading, rubbing, or pressing. This can help to dilate superficial blood vessels and increase blood flow to the affected area, improving lymphatic drainage and reducing swelling. Massage therapy can also help to maintain joint mobility and prevent the formation of scar tissue, which is beneficial for stroke patients experiencing spasticity – a neurological condition that causes abnormal muscle tone or stiffness, leading to abnormal movement and/or pain.

In addition to the physical benefits, massage therapy has been shown to decrease stress and anxiety in stroke patients by increasing levels of serotonin (feel-good hormones) and decreasing levels of cortisol (stress response hormones). This improvement in mental well-being can have a positive impact on physical health and recovery, improving mood, motivation, and initiation.

Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of massage therapy in reducing anxiety and pain, increasing health-related quality of life, and improving sensorimotor functions after a stroke. One study found that massage therapy, in combination with conventional physiotherapy, was effective in improving motor function and reducing spasticity in stroke survivors. Another study showed that massage therapy could decrease anxiety and pain and increase health-related quality of life after a stroke.

It is important to note that massage therapy should be used as a complementary treatment alongside other rehabilitation approaches, such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy. Before receiving massage therapy, it is crucial to consult with a neurologist or other medical professionals involved in the patient's care to ensure it is safe and appropriate for the individual. Additionally, it is essential to work with a massage therapist who has medical knowledge and experience in working with stroke patients.

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It can help with paralysis and muscle weakness

Massage Therapy for Paralysis and Muscle Weakness After a Stroke

Massage therapy can be a vital complementary treatment for stroke patients experiencing paralysis or muscle weakness. Massage can help dilate superficial blood vessels and increase blood flow to the affected area, thereby reducing swelling and improving function.

Reducing Swelling and Improving Lymphatic Drainage

After a stroke, patients often experience swelling in the affected area. Massage therapy can help reduce this swelling by encouraging the body's natural lymphatic drainage process, aiding the removal of toxins and waste products from under the skin. This gentle introduction to massage can also help patients get used to the feel of massage and being touched in the affected area.

Improving Blood Flow and Reducing Pain

By improving lymphatic drainage and reducing swelling, massage can help improve blood flow to the affected area, thereby reducing pain and improving function. Massage has been shown to release enkaphalins, a neurotransmitter that helps with pain response, and increase the production of endorphins, the body's natural pain modulators.

Maintaining Joint Mobility and Preventing Scar Tissue

Massage therapy can help maintain the mobility of the joints and prevent the formation of scar tissue that could limit mobility. While research is inconclusive, there is some evidence that certain types of massage can have a positive effect in reducing spasticity, a neurological condition that causes abnormal muscle stiffness and can lead to abnormal movement and pain.

Relaxation and Improved Sleep

Massage therapy can also help stroke patients relax and improve their mood, which can lead to more restful sleep. Many patients experience trouble resting, so massage can help them enjoy a much-needed deeper sleep.

Overall Benefits

While massage therapy cannot cure paralysis and immobility caused by a stroke, it can have a significantly positive impact on a patient's overall quality of life. It is important to note that massage therapy should be used in conjunction with other rehabilitation programmes, such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy.

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Massage can improve mental health and reduce anxiety

Massage therapy is a great way to improve mental health and reduce anxiety, especially after a stroke. It is a complementary treatment that can be used in conjunction with physiotherapy and occupational therapy to help speed up recovery. Massage therapy can be used to treat the mental health issues that arise after a stroke, such as increased stress and anxiety.

Massage therapy has been shown to significantly reduce stress on both physical and psychological levels. It can help to decrease levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone, and increase levels of serotonin, which is often referred to as the "happy chemical". This can help to boost your body's ability to fight off pain, anxiety and feelings of sadness. Massage therapy can also help to improve mood and reduce depression, especially in those living with chronic pain, as well as in cancer patients, pregnant women, and people living with chronic diseases.

The benefits of massage therapy also extend to those suffering from PTSD and trauma. It has been shown to help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with PTSD, and can be a great way to provide comfort and a sense of safety for those suffering from trauma.

Massage therapy can also be beneficial for those suffering from insomnia. It can help to relax the body and improve mood, making it easier to fall asleep and improve sleep quality.

In addition to the mental health benefits, massage therapy can also help to improve physical ailments that may be causing or contributing to anxiety and stress. For example, massage can help to improve blood flow and enhance lymphatic drainage, reducing swelling and inflammation in the body. It can also help to alleviate physical pain, improve range of motion, and reduce muscle tension.

It is important to note that when considering massage therapy after a stroke, it is crucial to get clearance from a medical professional. Additionally, it is recommended to work with a massage therapist who has experience in working with stroke patients and can tailor the massage techniques to the individual's specific needs.

By incorporating massage therapy into the recovery process, individuals can experience improved mental well-being, reduced anxiety, and enhanced physical health, ultimately aiding in their journey back to wellness.

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It can help with pain management

Massage therapy can be an effective form of pain management after a stroke. It can help to alleviate physical pain, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall quality of life.

Massage therapy can help to increase the production of the body's natural pain-relieving hormones, such as endorphins, and reduce the amount of cortisol (the stress response hormone). Massage can also help to release enkaphalins, a neurotransmitter that helps with pain response. This reduction in pain can, in turn, improve quality of life and decrease stress and anxiety.

Massage therapy can also help to improve blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate pain. This is especially beneficial for stroke patients as they often experience paralysis or weakness on one side of their body, which can lead to swelling of the limb. Massage techniques can help dilate superficial blood vessels and increase blood flow to the affected area, thereby reducing swelling and improving function.

Additionally, massage therapy can help to maintain the mobility of the joints and prevent the formation of scar tissue, which could limit mobility. It can also be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as stretching protocols and Botox injections, to treat spasticity, a common condition after a stroke that causes muscle stiffness and pain.

It is important to note that massage therapy should only be undertaken with the approval of a neurologist or other medical professionals involved in the patient's care. It is also crucial to ensure that the massage therapist has the appropriate training and experience in working with stroke patients.

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Massage can improve sleep

Massage therapy is an effective way to improve sleep quality, as it can help individuals with insomnia and other sleep disorders. Research has shown that massage therapy can improve sleep in children and adolescents, adults, the elderly, and even infants.

Massage therapy can be particularly beneficial for those with psychiatric disorders, lower back pain, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, and breast disease. It can also help manage pain, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall quality of life.

For example, a study on hospitalized depressed children and adolescents found that a 30-minute back massage, administered daily for five days, resulted in decreased depression and anxiety, lower saliva cortisol levels, and increased nighttime sleep.

Additionally, massage therapy has been shown to improve sleep for those with cerebral palsy. A study on children with cerebral palsy found that 80% had received massage at some point, with 51% currently receiving massage therapy. Most families reported using massage to help their children relax and improve their quality of sleep.

Furthermore, massage therapy can be an effective non-pharmacological treatment for individuals suffering from migraines. A randomized controlled trial found that massage therapy participants exhibited greater improvements in migraine frequency and sleep quality during the intervention and follow-up weeks, as well as decreased state anxiety, heart rate, and cortisol levels.

While getting regular massages from a professional therapist can be beneficial, it may not always be feasible due to cost and time constraints. However, self-massage techniques can be easily learned and practiced at home, offering similar benefits at a lower cost. For example, foot reflexology, which involves massaging the bottom of the foot, has been shown to improve relaxation and overall health. Additionally, massaging specific acupressure points on the head can be helpful for inducing sleep.

Frequently asked questions

Massage therapy is contraindicated during the first month after a stroke due to a high risk of a second stroke occurring. This risk is lowered but still present during the first six months, so it is critical to work with the client's medical team before treatment.

Massage therapy can help stroke patients in several ways, including:

- Improving function in paralysed or weakened body parts

- Alleviating physical pain

- Managing stress and anxiety

- Increasing range of motion for better stability

- Boosting circulation and improving skin colour and tone

- Aiding restful deep sleep

- Improving mood

Neuro-massage is a popular choice for stroke patients due to its gentle and specific application. However, there are many different forms of massage, and the best type may vary from person to person. Some individuals may enjoy very light pressure, while others may prefer deeper pressure. It is important to consult with a qualified massage therapist who has experience working with stroke patients to determine the most suitable type of massage.

Yes, it is important to consult with the neurologist and other medical professionals involved in the patient's care before proceeding with massage therapy. The massage therapist should be experienced in working with stroke patients and should be provided with an accurate history of the patient's medical conditions, including any medications they are taking. Additionally, individuals on blood thinners may bruise more easily, so deep tissue massage may need to be avoided. Care should also be taken to avoid massaging the neck area, especially near the carotid artery.

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