Can Massage Help with Scar Tissue?

On March 30, 2018   /   Massage Therapy   /   Leave a comment
Can Massage Help with Scar Tissue?

Do you have unwanted scar tissue that is painful and bothers you? Have you wondered, “Can Massage Help with Scar Tissue?”

The answer is YES!

What is SCAR TISSUE?

Scar tissue itself is the body’s normal method for healing body parts that are injured. Scar tissue is formed by collagen. After an injury, your body lays down collagen that will become normal healthy tissue.

How does one get it?

After surgery, scar tissue will develop where the surgical incision is in the skin.

After injuries like a hamstring tear or rotator cuff tear, scar tissue will develop in the muscle as it heals.

How Can Massage Help with Scar Tissue?

In general, the scar must be fully closed and no scabbing present to begin scar massage.  Your doctor should assess your scar before beginning scar massage.

Management of scar tissue through massage, stretching, and exercise is essential to ensure proper remodeling of the scar takes place and normal mobility and function are restored.

What is involved with Scar Tissue Massage?

Usually, a small amount of lubrication is used during scar massage. This is used to keep the scar and skin pliable and soft.

Cross friction massage is commonly used in the treatment of tendonitis and muscle strains or ligament sprains.  This involves using one or two fingers to massage your scar in a direction that is perpendicular to the line of the scar.

Myofascial Release is often used to manage scar tissue and the adhesion that may accompany scar tissue. The technique involves using the hands to massage the skin and underlying tissues around the scar. Motions are slow and the amount of force used is usually light.

How long does this take?

In general, it takes about six to eight weeks to fully remodel injured tissue in the body.  A massage therapist will take it slow and provide a nice, long duration low-load stress to your scar tissue.

All Body Kneads Massage Therapy can help you with unwanted scar tissue. Give us a call today or visit our website to schedule an appointment and continue the healing process.

517-898-2899

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Massage Therapy Can Help with Parkinson’s Disease

On March 21, 2018   /   Massage Therapy   /   1 Comment
Massage Therapy Can Help with Parkinson’s Disease

Therapeutic Massage for Parkinson’s Disease Patients

Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease? While there are many treatments and therapies, massage can really help with the day-to-day physical frustrations.

Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative brain disorder that develops slowly in most people. Usually, the symptoms take years to develop and many people live for years with the disease. However, it can be quite difficult at times.

While the disease itself isn’t fatal, complications resulting from Parkinson’s Disease do cause quite a few deaths. There is currently no cure but drugs and different therapies, like massage, can help alleviate symptoms.

Related: Massage For Seniors: Healthy Aging Benefits

What are the Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease has many symptoms, including:

  • tremors and shaking
  • loss of the ability to smell certain odors
  • dizziness and fainting
  • interference with sleep
  • muscle soreness and joint stiffness
  • stooping

In addition to the physical symptoms, there are a whole host of emotional issues that can arise from having to deal with a long term illness. These can include:

  • stress
  • anxiety
  • depression

Research supports massage therapy as a useful intervention for several of the symptoms associated with Parkinson’s Disease.

How Does Massage Therapy Help with Parkinson’s Disease?

No matter the cause, Massage Therapy can help with musculoskeletal pain and joint stiffness. Parkinson’s occurs most frequently in those over the age of 50, who may already be feeling the effects of aging. Massage can help with muscle spasms and rigidity.

Daily exercise is recommended for people with Parkinson’s Disease. Massage can help keep the body flexible and able to handle more activity.

As mentioned early, Parkinson’s can affect quality sleep. Massage therapy promotes healthy and deep sleep by relaxing the body and giving the mind a chance to rest as well. Massage can reduce the occurrence of restlessness and thrashing during sleep.

What type of massage is best for a Parkinson’s patient?

There are many different types of massage.

  • Swedish Massage
  • Deep Tissue Massage
  • Thai Massage
  • Shiatsu Massage

Please read A Short Primer on Different Types of Massage for more information.

I always work with an individual’s situation and recommend types of massage based on symptoms. I also take into account levels of pain and the amount of pressure a patient prefers.

How Often Should I Get a Massage?

This depends on many factors and will be evaluated on a case by case situation. We will take into account the severity of pain, stiffness, and movement limitations. Some people find that a regular, weekly massage is the most helpful in managing symptoms.

Related: How Often Should I Get a Massage?

Massage Should NOT Replace Medical Care

Massage therapy should be viewed as a complement to a patient’s ongoing medical care for Parkinson’s Disease–not a substitute for it. Parkinson’s is a debilitating disease and massage can certainly help by offering great relief from symptoms.

What to expect during a massage

As a certified massage therapist, I can help patients with the logistics of a massage, as well as provide the comforting benefits of massage. Patients will have the benefit of a table that can raise and lower to make getting on and off a lot easier. I can also help with removing shoes, putting them back on, and other dressing requirements if needed. I talk with all of my patients (and their caregivers if necessary) before a massage to ensure that the patient will receive the best level of care they need.

If you or someone you love has Parkinson’s Diseases and is suffering from the symptoms, please call today to schedule an appointment. Relief is on its way!

517-898-2899

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