Massage therapy has many benefits for individuals, including a reduction in muscle soreness and tightness, increased circulation, and a reduction in inflammation. You don’t have to be a professional athlete to enjoy the benefits of a massage, either. Some of the positive effects are extremely helpful in improving the intellectual, social, and emotional aspects of individuals with disabilities or medical needs.
In today’s post, we’ll take a closer look at how massage therapy can enhance the quality of life for individuals with medical needs or disabilities. Contact Zense Thai Massage Spa in Dallas to schedule your appointment today!
Massage and Physical Disabilities
There are a wide variety of physical disabilities including, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s and Cerebral Palsy. Research has shown that massage therapy helps with improving flexibility, reducing pain, and improving sleep. The great news is that these same benefits apply to individuals with other medical needs and disabilities!
One thing that many physical disabilities have in common is the loss of coordinated movements, rigidity of muscles, and pain and stiffness in muscles throughout the body. Massage therapy can assist in alleviating the severity of many of these symptoms, which help to improve the individual’s quality of life.
Massage and Developmental Disabilities
While many disabilities are categorized as developmental, they tend to have accompanying physical symptoms as well. For example, those who struggle with ADD/ADHD and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) frequently struggle with anxiety and depression. Massage therapy can help by reducing their levels of anxiety, stress, and depression, which can have further benefits by reducing behavioral outbursts and improving their quality of life.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
The types of symptoms that are displayed in those on the autism spectrum are vast. While there are some common behaviors and manners that can be observed in those who have Autism, there are almost as many examples of symptoms as there are individuals. One of the most common symptoms is a sensitivity to tactile sensations. Massage can help them become more familiar with this type of stimulation, which can aid them in having fewer negative outbursts and more positive socially-appropriate behavior.
Additionally, massage therapy can help with decreasing any issues they may have with sleep, while simultaneously increasing their bond with their caregivers.
Cerebral Palsy (CP)
Individuals who have cerebral palsy likely had abnormal brain development before birth. While there are treatments that can help this condition, it is not currently curable. Some of the most common symptoms are poor muscle coordination, stiff muscles, weak muscles, and tremors.
Massage therapy can assist with a number of the issues they experience in their muscle tone and health by helping to increase the tone and softness of the muscles. This benefit may also lead to a reduction in their pain levels and any issues they may have with constipation.
At Zense Thai Massage Spa in Dallas, we are proud to offer the professional massage services that you deserve. Whether you or someone you know has a disability, we would love to show you how massage therapy can help. Contact us today to check out our services and schedule a massage.