The Benefits of Massage: Stroke
Those who have survived a stroke will be affected differently. Some may have paralysis whilst other may have muscle weakness in particular areas. It can also cause speech difficulties, cognitive deficit or behavioural changes.
Neuromuscular massage is particularly beneficial to those who have had a stroke for numerous reasons.
Firstly neuromuscular massage can help overactive muscles that have been working hard to compensate for any muscle weakness. It is important to look after these muscles due to the reliance you may have on them to aid your mobility.
Commonly the affected limb, particular the arm, can become swollen. Lymphatic drainage assists with the removal of toxins and waste products that build up under our skin, which in turn reduces the swelling.
The repetitive stimulation provided by massage can also reduce pain through the gate control theory (blocks pain signals).The sensation of massage can also improve sensory feedback to those who have hypersensitivity, numbness or an altered sensation in the area. It improves body schema which is knowing the "feeling" of your own body.
If the individual who has survived a stroke has increase tone it can reset sarcomere lengths to a more optimal state (the structure inside the muscle). It helps to break down subcutaneous adhesions and prevent fibrosis, and may lead to improved sensory feedback from muscle spindle receptors. By increasing muscle length it can improve muscle function and activity.
