There are many benefits of massage therapy to the diabetic patient, including improved circulation, relaxation, and increased mobility and flexibility.
First, circulation.
Increased circulation can improve cellular intake of glucose and insulin utilization; additionally, according to research titled “Connective Tissue Reflex Massage for Type 2 Diabetic Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease: Randomized Controlled Trial,” connective tissue massage improved blood circulation in the lower limbs of Type-2 diabetic patients, and researchers found massage may be useful in slowing the progression of peripheral arterial disease. Additionally,one may see lower blood glucose levels as metabolism improves.
Second, relaxation.
The relaxation affected by massage can help relieve the stress attendant with having chronic disease; massage calms the nervous system.
Third, mobility.
The positive myofascial effects of massage therapy can increase mobility and tissue elasticity. Free restrictions of thick connective tissues, thereby increasing mobility of the patient.Improve tissue elasticity, which enhances mobility and the metabolic capacity of the tissues.
Overall, research and evidence are beginning to suggest massage therapy may assist in diabetes symptom management, although most research so far conducted is not conclusive. We do know massage therapy provides stress relief and relaxation in the course of a diabetes treatment plan—and, when applied with caution and knowledge of contraindications, can help improve the diabetic client’s quality of life.
About the Author:
Jimmy Gialelis, LMT, BCTMB, is owner of Advanced Massage Arts & Education in Tempe, Arizona. He is a National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork-approved provider of continuing education, and teaches “Professional Ethics for LMTs” and many other CE classes. He is a regular contributor to MASSAGE Magazine, and his articles include “To Succeed in Today’s Massage Market, You Can’t Make These 3 Mistakes” and “These 5 Keys Will Unlock the Door to Massage Session Re-Bookings” (massagemag.com).