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Can Massage Therapy Aid in Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation?

markacolwill
Mar 103 min read

The Role of Massage Therapy in Stroke Rehabilitation


A stroke can profoundly impact a person’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being, often leaving both individuals and their families facing significant challenges. While physiotherapy and occupational therapy play key roles in stroke recovery, massage therapy serves as a valuable complementary treatment.


With an ageing population, longer life expectancy, and strokes affecting younger individuals, the need for stroke rehabilitation continues to grow. Around 100,000 people experience a stroke each year, and there are 1.3 million stroke survivors in the UK, with more than half living with a resulting disability (for more details on prevalence across the UK, visit the Stroke Association website).


Understanding Stroke and Its Effects


A stroke can lead to a variety of physical, emotional, and cognitive changes. Rehabilitation strategies, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and massage therapy, aim to improve function and overall well-being. Once the acute phase of a stroke has passed, massage therapy can help address symptoms such as:


  • Paralysis or weakness on one side of the body

  • Reduced sensation

  • Increased muscle tone or spasticity

  • Poor coordination

  • Swelling and pain due to limited mobility

  • Stress and anxiety


How Massage Therapy Supports Stroke Recovery


Massage therapy involves applying pressure and movement to muscles and soft tissues to promote healing. Techniques such as gentle stroking, kneading, and deep pressure can help manage stroke-related symptoms in several ways:


  • Managing Paralysis and Weakness


Following a stroke, limited movement in an affected limb can lead to fluid buildup and swelling. Massage therapy can help improve circulation by dilating blood vessels, enhancing lymphatic drainage, and reducing swelling. These benefits may improve function and alleviate pain associated with fluid retention.


  • Reducing Spasticity


Spasticity, a condition characterised by muscle stiffness and involuntary contractions, can interfere with movement and cause discomfort. Treatment typically includes stretching exercises and Botox® injections. While research on massage therapy for spasticity is still evolving, some studies suggest it may help maintain joint mobility and prevent scar tissue formation that could further limit movement.


  • Alleviating Pain


Pain after a stroke can develop immediately or emerge months or years later, often due to central post-stroke pain, complex regional pain syndrome, spasticity-related pain, or shoulder subluxation. Massage therapy has been found to help relieve pain by promoting the release of enkephalins and endorphins—natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. This pain reduction can enhance overall well-being and reduce stress.


  • Easing Stress and Anxiety


Adapting to life after a stroke can be overwhelming, leading to increased stress and anxiety. Massage therapy has been shown to elevate serotonin levels (which improve mood) while reducing cortisol (a hormone associated with stress). These effects can enhance mental well-being, potentially boosting motivation and aiding in the recovery process.


By incorporating massage therapy into a stroke rehabilitation plan, individuals may experience improved physical function, reduced pain, and enhanced emotional well-being—helping them regain a sense of control over their recovery journey.


This blog post was developed using information sourced from various research papers, with links provided below.






 
 
 

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