Massage Therapy for Diabetics
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where there are high blood sugar (glucose) levels over a long period of time. Stress or added mental strain can exacerbate the condition.
Massage therapy can help patients with diabetes by stimulating blood circulation, increasing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the body. By stimulating blood circulation, massage therapy can encourage insulin uptake in the body’s cells, resulting in higher utilization of glucose and lower blood sugar levels. Massage can also help by having a relaxing and calming effect on the patient.
Neuropathy is a known complication in diabetics where peripheral nerves become damaged. It is a painful condition and may also cause numbness in the limbs. Neuromuscular massage (using slow strokes and focused pressure on the painful areas similar to acupressure) is a safe technique to help treat neuropathy.