Massage for Multiple Sclerosis

The challenge with massage for multiple sclerosis is that there is no specific massage therapy protocol for people living with MS. The massage therapist must assess and address each individual based on his/her unique set of symptoms.

Why massage for multiple sclerosis?

Massage therapy can play an effective role in reducing both the symptoms of MS and the stress of daily life.

For joint stiffness, massage increases blood circulation in muscles around joints, which creates more pliable tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissue. More pliable tissue means easier joint movement. The effects of massage can be enhanced by stretches and exercises that maintain a joint’s range of motion and flexibility between massage therapy sessions.

For muscle weakness or atrophy, it's important to maintain the integrity of muscle tissue. Massage therapy improves the circulation of oxygenated, nutrient rich blood to muscles and other tissues.

For excess muscle tension or spasticity, many massage techniques reduce abnormal muscle tone, relieve pain, and increase circulation and muscle length to reduce spasm. Other massage strokes sedate the nervous system or local peripheral nerves, which temporarily reduces their exaggerated stimulation of muscle fibers.

Is massage for multiple sclerosis always a good idea?

According to Ruth Werner, author of A Massage Therapist's Guide to Pathology:

"First of all, let me offer some words of warning. In its acute, or "flare" stage, MS is an inflammatory condition. True, the inflammation is happening in the CNS where we don't have access, but the general rule for massage and acute inflammation is to let it pass.

"During an MS exacerbation, the body has a lot of activity to process. In my opinion (and absolutely anyone is invited to disagree), I think it's a better idea to let the dust settle before adding any more input in the form of massage. Some varieties of energetic work may be appropriate during MS flares, as long as the process is respected and the client is not overwhelmed or overchallenged by the stimulus being supplied."

What about multiple sclerosis and massage therapy research?

Hernandez-Reif, M., Field, T., & Theakston, H. (1998). Multiple sclerosis patients benefit from massage therapy. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2, 168-174.

METHOD: Twenty-four adults with multiple sclerosis were randomly assigned to a standard medical treatment control group or a massage therapy group that received 45-minute massages twice a week for 5 weeks.

RESULTS: The massage group had lower anxiety and less depressed mood immediately following the massage sessions, and by the end of the study they had improved self-esteem, better body image and image of disease progression, and enhanced social functioning.

Source: Massage Therapy Research Abstracts



Read more about alternative therapies, including massage for multiple sclerosis.