Massage therapy can be a relaxing treatment or pain management tool for people experiencing uncomfortable symptoms from health conditions. For example, getting a massage alleviates pain and tension, making it an ideal treatment for seniors who have reduced mobility due to joint and muscle stiffness. Here are a few more reasons why elderly individuals should get a massage.

How Does Massage Therapy Benefit the Elderly?

1. Relieves Stress

Many seniors experience chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis. Over time, decreased mobility and consistent discomfort can become frustrating, overwhelming, and stressful. Although excessive stress can cause headaches and chronic neck pain, massage therapists relieve this negative emotion by slowly stroking and stretching your muscles with light pressure.

2. Increases Blood Flow

Massage stimulates the tissue to improve blood flow throughout the body. This treatment can target specific areas, such as the lower extremities, making it ideal for seniors who are experiencing leg swelling from a medical condition, like gout.

3. Improves Flexibility

Muscles may tighten as you age, reducing your range of motion, which causes inflexibility. Elderly individuals with limited flexibility aren’t as nimble, putting them at a higher risk of injury from slips and falls. While seniors are advised to create an appropriate exercise regimen with their physician to increase mobility and flexibility, they can also reduce muscle stiffness by getting a massage.

4. Decreases Pain

Pain is less likely to occur when bodily structures, like muscles and joints, are fully relaxed. A massage will stimulate nerves surrounding the uncomfortable area, which will prevent other nerves from sending pain signals to the brain. Additionally, the relaxing nature of a massage can be a natural pain reliever. 

If you’re a senior who’d like to enjoy the benefits of massage therapy, contact the skilled team at StayFIT Physical Therapy in Hawaii. These professionals help their patients achieve a healthy lifestyle that’s free of pain and mobility limitations. They’ll assess your condition in a private, comfortable environment; then create a custom treatment plan to address your needs. View their services online to learn more about the different treatments they offer. Call (808) 487-0487 to speak with a specialist at the Aiea office, or dial (808) 674-0500 to schedule an appointment at their  Kapolei location.