The term PTSD is used to refer to Post Traumatic Stress
Disorder. For most adults, PTSD is something they associate with military
veterans, but the condition can affect anyone who has been witness to or
experienced trauma. Individuals who have PTSD actively look for solutions to their
condition, particularly if they suffer from severe symptoms. In many cases,
PTSD can interfere with daily life in some
ways, from social interaction to relationships and even work. For many, an
alternative approach to PTSD treatment such as massage is a great way in which
to provide solace and comfort to those who are suffering from emotional and physical effects of PTSD.
PTSD Causes and
Symptoms
A number of reasons can cause
PTSD. One might have experienced military combat or a terrorist attack
while overseas, which will result in side effects upon returning home. One can
also be diagnosed with PTSD after being
affected by a violent crime, involved in a horrible accident or natural
disaster. After going through such an event, one might suffer from flashbacks
and nightmares, finding it difficult to sleep or complete certain tasks during
the day.
An individual can feel distance with others or a detachment
from life when dealing with PTSD. Fatigue and chronic pain can also be an
issue. When suffering from PTSD, it is important to seek treatment.
How Massage Can Help
Medical professionals have found that PTSD symptoms are a
result of an imbalance or imbalances in the brain chemicals that are triggered
by emotional stress. The chemicals released will affect one’s behaviour, cognition, and feelings. When an individual relives a traumatic event, they
will experience a heightened sense of anxiety. The brain cannot turn off the
response which leads the individual to be
constantly hit with stress hormones that cause an emotional breakdown as
well as physical pain.
Muscles of the body are
constantly tensed for action as the ‘flight or fight’ sense is always
activated. With massage therapy, the body can
relax. The muscles unwind, and physical
pain is eased. With a massage, the
relaxation response of the body is triggered
which breaks the never-ending cycle of feeling the need to ‘flight or fight’.
When you have PTSD,
massage therapy can help you gain a sense of relaxation and calm. You can learn
how to let go of stress and anxiety and
simply revel in the feeling of relaxation. Over time, the effects of the massage can bleed over into everyday life,
helping you to cope with symptoms better.
As you begin to relax via
massage, circulation of the body improves, sleep patterns begin to return to
normal, and you feel more relaxed. This
can be beneficial to your overall health as well as working with other therapy
types such as counselling.
If you suffer from PTSD
contact Academy Massage to learn how massage therapy can be of assistance;
we are happy to help provide a sense of relaxation as you deal with this
difficult condition.
