Massage Therapy For Diabetics

By Kristy Keck, LMT

Here are three reasons massage therapy is beneficial to diabetics

1. Relaxation – Duke Medical University researchers have confirmed that stress management can lower blood glucose levels. A Touch Research Institute study demonstrated that massage therapy lowers blood glucose levels in children with diabetes mellitus. A study at New Mexico University showed that a short stress-relief program including touch could lower blood sugar and improve health in diabetic patients.

When the body encounters stress, it prepares itself for a “fight or flight” reaction by raising blood glucose levels. Since raised blood glucose levels are detrimental to diabetics, methods of reducing stress, such as massage therapy, can have a profound effect on preventing blood sugar surges.

2. Circulation – There is no getting around the fact that massage can increase circulation, thereby encouraging the efficient transport of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Improved circulation, in turn, improves the cells' insulin uptake.

3. Tissue Flexibility – A history of high blood sugar thickens connective tissue. Massage helps increase tissue mobility and elasticity, reversing the thickening effect of uncontrolled glucose levels. This tissue inflexibility can manifest as stiffness in muscles, tendons and ligaments, as well as decreased range of motion in the joints. Massage therapy can significantly counter this effect. Injection sites are avoided to prevent any effect on the insulin absorption rate, so be sure to share with your therapist where your injection site is. If your feet and/or legs are experiencing neuropathy, massage may be helpful in reducing pain levels. Massage can lower blood sugar levels so it is important to be aware of any sudden changes. Diabetic patients are encouraged to bring a sweet snack to their appointment to have if needed after their session.

Massage therapy can be a wonderful complement to diabetes management.