Massage Benefits for Diabetics
Diabetes impacts a large number of people around the world, and can cause dramatic changes in your body. Although everyone is different, the most common physical side effects of diabetes are decreased blood circulation, high blood sugar and an overall sensitivity in your limbs. As you make the lifestyle changes required to maintain a great quality of life with diabetes, self care becomes increasingly important. Integrating massage therapy along with your medical treatments can provide a relaxing escape-away from doctors, medication and uncomfortable symptoms. The massage therapy benefits for diabetes can enhance your overall well-being and potentially improve your quality of life as you navigate the challenges of diabetes.
THE IMPACT OF DIABETES
According to the CDC, more than 34 million people in the United States have diabetes. Diabetes, a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy, can heavily impact your physical and mental health.
Physically, your body can experience nerve damage and complications within your arteries. Mentally, you might be overwhelmed by increased stress and anxiety as you treat your diabetes and make daily lifestyle changes. When it comes to living with diabetes, the most important thing you can do is develop new habits and routines that help you redefine the way you live your life.
HOW MASSAGE HELPS DIABETICS
Massage is a great way to compliment your current treatment plan. It cannot be used to replace any form of medical care. Diabetics, in particular, have a new-found responsibility to lead an active and healthy lifestyle to avoid diabetic complications in the future. Eating a well-balanced diet and starting a fitness routine are the foundations of a positive, sustainable plan for diabetes. Incorporating massage therapy into your diabetic wellness plan is one of the best things you can do to positively target your body and mind.
Here are some massage therapy benefits for diabetics:
Increased blood flow and circulation: Massage allows for efficient transport of oxygen and nutrients to the rest of the body. This improved circulation can help your cells absorb insulin and actually retain it. With the arterial damage and circulatory effects of diabetes, especially in the extremities, this is one of the most important benefits of massage for diabetics.
Increased range of motion: Sudden increases and decreases of blood sugar levels can provide an uncomfortable strain on your body, causing the connective tissue to thicken. Muscles, tendons and ligaments can become stiff and cause a decrease in your overall range of motion. Massage therapy is a great solution to improve the flexibility of your tissue and joints, bringing you back to a comfortable physical and flexible state.
Stress-relief: Diabetes can trigger physical and mental stress as you try to navigate your treatment plan. Changing your diet, constantly monitoring your blood sugar, making sure you get enough exercise, and trying to explain these changes to family and friends can cause your mental health can also suffer. When you feel frustrated and overwhelmed, turning to massage can help you put your mind at ease. A stress-relief massage gives you a dedicated window of time to focus entirely on yourself, being present, and loving your body.
IS MASSAGE SAFE FOR DIABETICS?
You may be wondering, as a diabetic, is massage therapy safe for me? In most cases, yes. Like any supplementary treatment, it is important to consult with your doctor to see if massage therapy is right for you.
Massage therapists are trained to personalize treatment for each individual's needs and concerns. When you arrive for your appointment, you and your therapist can discuss any specific worries, questions, and requirements you may have.
Diabetes can affect individuals in a variety of ways. Luckily, massage therapy can provide relief to most physical discomfort caused by diabetes. Here are a few examples:
Swedish Massage for Peripheral Arterial Disease: A common side effect of diabetes is high blood pressure, which causes the body to forcefully push blood through your arteries, damaging the artery walls. In the long term, your body struggles to keep up with normal blood flow and your overall blood circulation decreases. Peripheral Arterial Disease in particular affects most people in their legs, as blood flow is reduced to the limbs. A gentle, relaxing treatment such as a Swedish massage is the perfect remedy to increase overall circulation and reduce tension in the areas where discomfort is experienced.
Therapeutic Massage for Diabetic Neuropathy: Similar to your arteries, your nerves can also suffer from high blood pressure in the body. Diabetic Neuropathy, a condition in which damaged nerves in the limbs can cause pain, itchiness, burning sensations, and a loss of reflexes, can benefit from a highly personalized physical treatment. Therapeutic massage is designed with each guest’s needs in mind and uses neuromuscular therapy to target specific areas of pain in the body.
YOUR BODY WILL THANK YOU
The battle against diabetes is not something you have to endure alone. Our team of massage experts are here to help you find the best therapeutic escape for your personal treatment plan. We’re here to make sure you can live as your best self with a massage for diabetes!