Defeat Stress And Relieve Chronic Pain By Means Of A Therapeutic Geriatric Massage

Geriatric massage - the gentle massaging of soft tissues to relieve pain

, increase range of motion and improve blood circulation - was especially designed to meet the unique needs of the elderly. The technique can include active or passive manipulation of the joints as well.

While the main goal of geriatric massage is basic relaxation and stress relief, it has also proven to be beneficial in fighting the symptoms of aging. The session usually lasts no longer than 30 minutes and includes gentle stretching of legs, feet and shoulders as well as gentle massaging of the hands and feet to relieve pain and prevent stiffness. Stronger movements are sometimes incorporated into geriatric massage therapy - particularly in the shoulders - to improve flexibility.

Geriatric massage has also been proven to aid in the treatment of:

Increases blood circulation to reduce the effects of diabetes and other diseases;

Improves lymphatic flow to aid in the elimination of toxic substances from the body;

Combats the symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression;

Improves balance, posture and flexibility;

Reduces arthritic pain and increases joint mobility;

Improves quality of sleep.

With the aging process, also comes an increased vulnerability to diseases, including but not limited to: diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson's disease and arthritis. Geriatric massage can alleviate the symptoms of these ailments, as well as the depression, anxiety and loneliness felt by many people in this age group. Add to that an increase in physical activity, better blood circulation and a sounder overall sense of well-being, and you have the perfect solution for a healthy senior.

Some of the more intense massage techniques - such as the Swedish massage - involve movements that can cause pain and bruising; these methods are not advisable for geriatric clients. Another consideration when providing geriatric massage therapy is the fact that after a certain age, a person experiences increased joint stiffness, so a massage therapist must monitor his/her client to insure that the method being used is not causing any discomfort. If the therapist does notice any sign of pain, he/she will immediately change their method of massage, possibly from slow circular strokes to a light brushing over the skin. During a geriatric massage, your therapist may also choose to use lotions or oils to deal with the fragility of their patient's skin.

More and more doctors everywhere are beginning to accept geriatric massage therapy ... but as an addition to other required treatment...not as a substitute. Although geriatric massage has few known side effects and is a very gentle procedure, if you or someone you know is considering geriatric massage therapy, be sure to speak with your primary care physician before proceeding. And remember that as with any other type of medical procedure, continuity is key. The more you participate, the greater the benefits you'll enjoy.

Several studies have also supported the idea that touch therapy - such as that provided by geriatric massage therapy - can have a very positive impact on the mental and physical well-being of the elderly. And because elderly people often feel very isolated and alone, a geriatric massage program can help ease depression, stress, and other emotions related to their isolation. Touch - via geriatric massage therapy - can also stimulate circulation, boost the immune system, and ease the aches and pains which plague many elderly bodies.

by: Robert Reynolds

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