Massage for Neuropathy–Can it help?

Neuropathy is a medical condition characterized by damage or dysfunction of the nerves. Symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected area. While there are many treatments available for neuropathy, massage therapy has been shown to reduce pain, improve quality of life, and even reduce the risk of falls in individuals with neuropathy! Read on to review the research on how massage can help with your nerve damage or nerve pain.

In a study published in the Journal of Nursing Scholarship in 2017, researchers found that massage therapy can help reduce pain and improve quality of life in people with diabetic neuropathy. The study involved 46 participants who received either massage therapy or a placebo treatment. Participants who received massage therapy reported a significant reduction in pain and improved quality of life compared to those who received the placebo treatment.

Another study published in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork found that massage therapy can improve balance and potentially reduce falls in older individuals. The study involved 35 participants who received either massage therapy or no treatment. Participants who received massage therapy showed a significant improvement in balance and a reduced risk of falls compared to those who received no treatment.

In conclusion, massage therapy may be a helpful complementary therapy for people with neuropathy. It has been shown to reduce pain, improve quality of life, improve balance, and potentially reduce falls. If you are considering massage therapy for neuropathy, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider to determine if it is safe for you to do so.

(While these studies suggest that massage therapy can be beneficial for people with neuropathy, it is important to note that massage therapy should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. It is always important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.)

Sources:

• Gok Metin Z, Arikan Donmez A, Izgu N, Ozdemir L, Arslan IE. Aromatherapy Massage for Neuropathic Pain and Quality of Life in Diabetic Patients. J Nurs Scholarsh. 2017 Jul;49(4):379-388. doi: 10.1111/jnu.12300. Epub 2017 Jun 12. PMID: 28605119.
• Sefton JM, Yarar C, Berry JW. Massage Therapy Produces Short-term Improvements in Balance, Neurological, and Cardiovascular Measures in Older Persons. Int J Ther Massage Bodywork. 2012;5(3):16-27. doi: 10.3822/ijtmb.v5i3.152. Epub 2012 Sep 26. PMID: 23087775; PMCID: PMC3457719.