Five Benefits Of Massage Therapy – Injury Management And Prevention For Seniors
Written for YOU Massage Therapy, Southampton by guest author, Marc Innes, Owner and Principal of the School of Natural Therapies
Whether you are an athlete, a senior citizen, someone who went through surgery, or a simply a regular Jane or Joe, you will find massages beneficial and enjoyable. In general, massages help reduce stress levels and lessen the effects of depression, anxiety and digestion problems. It can improve blood flow, as well as the immune and nervous systems.
As people age, the body becomes increasingly frail and movements slower. Geriatric massages are specifically designed to meet the needs of the elderly. The process involves using the hands to work on the muscles, soft tissues and joints in the body.
Massaging the body enhances blood circulation, increases range of movement, and relieves pain caused by chronic ailments such as arthritis, Parkinson’s, stroke or heart disease. It also helps reduce the chances of injury.
Here are some of the benefits of deep tissue massage therapy for the elderly.
1. Improves blood circulation
Getting the blood to flow to the various parts of the body becomes more difficult as a person ages. Massages counter the effect of aging by improving the circulation of blood around the body.
2. Enhances balance and gait
One common concern when it comes to seniors is getting into accidents and falling. As people grow older, their bones become weaker and more fragile. A massage helps improve the blood circulation to the limbs and the person’s sense of balance. This reduces the chances of falling.
3. Softens the muscles and tissues
Muscles and tissues harden over time due to lack of activity. Massages improve the blood flow to muscles and tissues, reducing the tension in the body. As a result, the muscles and tissues soften.
A deep massage helps reduce stiffness and pain on the joints around the hip, shoulder and knees.
The body’s muscles and joints also become more flexible after a massage, enabling a wider range of movement. This offers the elderly a chance to function more regularly and perform daily tasks.
My name is Velichka and I am a Massage Therapist, originally from Bulgaria. I am one of the newer Massage Therapists at YOU Massage, Southampton and specialise as a