Massage Benefits for Fibromyalgia Sufferers

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain. Symptoms may include fatigue, joint stiffness, muscle spasms and twitching, weakness in the limbs and nerve pain. The pain can range from an aching tenderness to severe discomfort. It is estimated that fibromyalgia affects 2-8% of the world population, with the disease most prevalent in females, though it can also affect men and children. Unfortunately, fibromyalgia is often misdiagnosed and is frequently associated with depression and anxiety. It was not until 1987 that the American Medical Association recognized fibromyalgia as a "legitimate" disease and a cause of disability.

Since there is no known cure for fibromyalgia, many who suffer from this condition have turned to massage therapy to help relieve their often debilitating symptoms. The results have been encouraging with massage therapy being recognized as the most effective (non-drug) treatment for the pain and dysfunction of fibromyalgia. Massage therapy works at the cellular level to reduce symptoms and stimulates health in the circulatory and myofascial (muscle and connective tissue) systems of the body, helping to improve circulation and assist in releasing toxins and waste products from the body. The physical pressure on the skin promotes the loosening of stiff muscles and connective tissue and breaks the tension, strain and pain cycle, which in turn reduces the inflammation and the associated neurological reactions. Massage therapy has also been demonstrated to help the body release certain chemicals in the brain that help individuals relax. aiding in better and longer sleep patterns.

The qualified therapists at Academy Massage are trained in the proper procedure to provide effective treatment to lessen the pain and discomfort of fibromyalgia. Through their skilled therapeutic methods it has been noted that after the first few massage sessions the fibromyalgia sufferer will start to experience significant results. However, Academy Massage recommends that massage for fibromyalgia be done in shorter, more frequent intervals, such as one half hour twice a week, instead of an hour-long session.

Massage Therapy for Diabetics

A 2013 Statistics Canada report revealed that nearly 2 million Canadians aged 12 and older suffer from diabetes. More disturbing is a report from Health Canada which states that incidents of diabetes are on the rise, due largely to obesity and physical inactivity - and even genetic susceptibility.

Diabetes is one of the most chronic diseases in Canada. In fact, according to the International Diabetes Association, diabetes is a global epidemic accounting for 4.16 million worldwide deaths annually.

Diabetes occurs when there are problems with the production and use of insulin in the body, which ultimately leads to a dangerous increase in blood sugar levels. Symptoms include weight loss, excessive thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue. Long-term complications may include kidney failure, diminishing or total loss of vision, loss of feeling in the limbs, and cardiovascular disease. 

There are three types of diabetes and each requires a specific treatment:

• Type 1 (or "insulin dependent") diabetes is the most prone to complications and requires daily insulin injections.

• Type 2 (or "non-insulin" dependent) diabetes can usually be controlled through proper diet and exercise and, if necessary, oral medications.

• Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after the baby is born.

Besides traditional medical treatments and/or changes in lifestyle, massage has become a popular and beneficial therapy both to prevent and improve the potential risks associated with diabetes. At Academy Massage our qualified therapists are knowledgeable in the correct treatment procedures to help one manage diabetes.

Diabetics are at risk for serious circulatory problems. While circulation is a crucial component in maintaining good health, healthy blood flow may become compromised in the person who is diabetic. High blood sugars can result in a hardening of the arteries. According to a number of research studies, massage therapy has been shown to improve circulation, promoting a better flow of oxygen and nutrients through the body and organs, including the extremities, hence improving insulin distribution within the cells.

Muscle and other tissues can be adversely affected by high blood sugar levels. Stress and improper circulation can cause the tissues around the muscles and tendons to become thicker. This can decrease a diabetic's movement and range of motion. Massage therapy addresses this problem directly by allowing positive chemical changes to occur in the body which, in turn, reduces stiffness and encourages flexibility and mobility. The importance of this treatment is that with improved body movement the diabetic is able to follow a sensible exercise plan that is necessary in the prevention of further complications connected with the disease.

Massage therapy is also effective in providing relief for diabetic neuropathy, which may include any number of troubling symptoms, ranging from numbness or tingling of the extremities to speech impairment. These symptoms are often alleviated with gentle massage.

Of course there are the relaxation benefits of massage, which is important in dealing with the stress people living with diabetes often experience. Diabetics must monitor blood glucose levels daily and those who experience anxiety are at risk for poor blood sugar control. Massage therapy calms the nervous system, thereby promoting a release of stressful emotions that otherwise may prove detrimental to one's physical, emotional and psychological well-being.

The benefits of massage can help a diabetic continue to maintain and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. Therefore the professionals at Academy Massage recommend that regular massage therapy should become part of the treatment for diabetics.