Defeat Stress But Also Let Go With A Soothing 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:

Reduce the effects of diabetes and other diseases by increasing blood circulation;

Eliminate toxic substances from the body by improving lymphatic flow;

Reduce the symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety;

Enhance posture, flexibility and balance;

Battle the effects of arthritis, such as pain and limited joint mobility;

Provide better overall 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.

Deep tissue work and penetrating massage techniques are not suitable for many geriatric clients, because these techniques can cause pain and bruising. Elderly bodies also experience more stiffness and joint problems, which must be taken into account when working with the elderly. The skin of older people is very fragile, requiring the use of massage oil or lotion and gentle geriatric massage techniques to avoid tearing or irritation. During a geriatric massage, the therapist continually watches for signs that the client might be experiencing pain or discomfort so they can adjust the pressure being used. Sometimes, lightly brushing the skin is enough, while in other cases slow circular massage strokes may be used.

While geriatric massage is gaining acceptance in the medical community, keep in mind that geriatric massage therapy is not meant to be a replacement for your current medical treatment or exercise program. Elderly bodies tend to be more delicate and geriatric massage is very gentle, rarely causing any adverse side effects. If you are currently seeking treatment for a specific health condition, you should receive permission from your physician before proceeding with any type of massage therapy.

One more thing ... because elderly people often feel like they are all alone, one of the major factors in the popularity of geriatric massage therapy is the use of touch therapy, which is believed to strengthen both the physical and mental well being of its clients. Touch therapy - by way of geriatric massage - has been proven to ease the effects of feeling isolated such as depression, anxiety and stress, as well as boosting the immune system, reducing aches and pains and minimizing stress.

by: Jasmine Beach

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