The Benefits of Massage: Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injuries affect every individual differently ranging in severity from ‘mild’ to ‘severe’. Some individuals you would not be aware of their TBI whilst others may have severe changes to their mobility and function. Those who are classified as being “mildly affected” can still have severe socioeconomic repercussions with many struggling to keep their jobs and relying on a caregiver. I have worked briefly as a Brain Injury Case Manager for Head first so my experience of this combined with my specialism in Neuro-Physiotherapy has shown me first-hand the devastating effect of TBIs.
Massage therapy can help those who have suffered from a TBI in numerous ways. Some individuals’ are left with traumatic injuries, mobility difficulties, sensory and/or tonal changes (whether dystonic, high or low) resulting in chronic pain, immobility, reduced flexibility and muscle dysfunction. Of course there are a vast array of other symptoms an individual may suffer from.
Firstly, deep massage can stretch the muscle and reset the sarcomere length (structure inside the muscle) to a more optimal length and thereby potentially improve muscle function. This can also reduce adhesions, prevent fibrosis and may lead to improved sensory feedback. This combined with passive range of movement can help increase range of movement and reduce tone.
Massage can increase circulation bringing oxygen and nutrients into the tissue, as well as removing toxins. Lymphatic drainage reduces swelling and as a result reduces discomfort and increase range of movement.
The repetitive stimulate provided by massage can help with pain management via the gate control theory (blocks pain signals). It also stimulates the autonomic nervous system which increases the release of endorphins, serotonin and dopamine which reduces stress. This is particularly beneficial for those have been left post-concussion symptoms which can last for months to years. Persistent symptoms can manifest into neurological and non-neurological problems that can affect functional outcome. A study by Burns (2015) found positive results for a case highlighting the potential importance of massage therapy work to reduce headache, dizziness, and nausea in concussion recovery.
As a therapist I would assess every client as an individual case due to the vast range of symptoms. Every brain injury has different needs and each one is treated differently. Learning about each client’s specific needs to create the most effective treatment plan is my goal
