Senior Wellness: Massage can help treat physical issues Author: Mackenzie Thaden

Massages can be used to treat things like the overuse of specific muscles, arthritis, poor positioning and body mechanics, and issues arising from past injuries or surgeries.

​Massages are often something we think about in relation to spas and health clubs, but it is also a great way to help treat some physical ailments.
Occupational and Physical therapists may also have some training in massage therapy and use it as a part of their treatment plan.
Massages can be used to treat things like the overuse of specific muscles, arthritis, poor positioning and body mechanics, and issues arising from past injuries or surgeries.
The benefits of massage therapy include:

• Reduction of pain and stiffness
• Reduction of fatigue, promotion of relaxation
• Increase in circulation
• Reduction in stress
• Alleviate tension headaches
• Alleviate chronic neck and back pain
• Lowering of blood pressure
• Improvement of posture
• Reduction of anxiety symptoms
• Reduction of depression symptoms

While you want to make sure you are safe, and be careful, you don't have to rely on a medical professional for every massage. If you feel the need, you can use a tennis ball or trigger point cane to get some of the benefits at home.

1. Hold the ball on the back of your shoulder/neck area
2. Lean gently against a high back chair if sitting or wall if standing
3. Gently move body side to side and up and down as able until you feel pressure on "sore spot" of back/shoulder/neck.
4. Continue to roll ball in a circular motion until you feel pain reduced and muscle is relaxed. Or, hold ball on the sore spot applying gentle pressure until you feel a release of the muscle.
5. Massage for 5 to 10 minutes.

You can use a heat pack before or after a massage.
Of course, if you experience severe pain during a massage, stop immediately. If you continue to experience severe muscle pain limiting your ability to participate in your normal activities, consult your doctor.
Porter Hills has occupational therapists who can help you learn more about massage therapy.