The Wellness Hub
  • Home
  • Massage & Bodywork Services
    • Massage New Client Offers + Meet Our Therapists
    • Massage for Pain Relief
    • Fertility Massage
    • Prenatal & Postpartum Massage
    • Couples Massage
    • Lymphatic Drainage Massage
    • Reiki Healing
    • Cupping Therapy
    • Oncology Massage
    • Massage Enhancements
  • Skincare Services
    • Skincare Menu & New Client Offers
    • Meet Our Esthetician
    • Facial Enhancements Menu
  • Holistic Health Services
    • Acupuncture Care
    • Chiropractic Care
    • Full Body Red Light Therapy
  • About
    • Meet Our Team
    • Reviews
    • Founders, Mission & Values
    • FAQs
    • Aftercare
  • Pricing
    • Price Menu
    • Membership Program Savings
    • Cancellation & Other Policies
  • Blog
  • Contact/Location
  • Gift Certificates
  • Book Appointment

Can I Receive Massage Therapy if I'm Living with Lupus?

5/8/2025

0 Comments

 
A woman has her eyes closed and receives a professional massage on her face
May is Lupus Awareness Month

​Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy tissues and organs, leading to inflammation, pain, fatigue, and a wide array of symptoms that can vary dramatically from person to person. Because lupus is systemic, it can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain—making it a complex condition to manage.

While there’s currently no cure for lupus, many people find significant relief through a combination of medical treatments and complementary therapies. One increasingly popular and effective complementary therapy is massage therapy.

Let’s dive into how massage therapy can support individuals with lupus in managing their symptoms, reducing stress, and improving quality of life.


Reducing Muscle and Joint Pain

Pain—especially in the muscles and joints—is one of the most common symptoms reported by people with lupus. This discomfort can range from mild stiffness to severe, debilitating pain. Massage therapy, especially techniques like Swedish massage, myofascial release, and gentle deep tissue work, can help ease this pain by:
  • Increasing circulation
  • Reducing muscle tension
  • Improving flexibility
  • Breaking down adhesions in connective tissues

A skilled massage therapist can work around sensitive joints or inflamed areas, providing gentle, therapeutic relief without aggravating symptoms. Regular sessions may help reduce reliance on pain medications or improve how the body responds to them.


Managing Stress and Promoting Relaxation

Living with lupus can be emotionally exhausting. The unpredictable flares, chronic pain, and limitations on daily activities can lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression. In fact, studies show that people with chronic autoimmune diseases often face a higher risk of mental health struggles.

Massage therapy naturally promotes relaxation and mental well-being by lowering cortisol (the stress hormone) and increasing serotonin and dopamine—brain chemicals associated with happiness and calmness. The result? Many people feel more emotionally balanced and better equipped to handle the challenges that lupus presents.

Even a 30-minute massage can trigger the parasympathetic nervous system—the body’s “rest and digest” state—helping to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.


Supporting the Immune System (Cautiously)

Because lupus is an autoimmune condition, it’s crucial to approach immune-related treatments with care. While massage is not a direct immune booster in the traditional sense, research shows it helps regulate immune response by reducing inflammation-promoting cytokines and promoting lymphatic drainage.

Lymphatic massage in particular is beneficial in supporting healthy lymph flow, which can reduce swelling, remove toxins, and improve overall immune system efficiency. It’s a gentle, rhythmical technique that’s especially useful for people dealing with inflammation and fluid retention, both of which are common in lupus.
That said, it’s always essential to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning massage therapy, particularly during a lupus flare or if you’re on immunosuppressive medications.


Combating Fatigue

Fatigue is another hallmark symptom of lupus. It’s not just feeling “tired”—it’s a deep, overwhelming exhaustion that rest doesn’t always fix. Massage therapy helps combat fatigue in several ways:
  • Enhancing blood and oxygen flow to tissues
  • Reducing stress and promoting restorative sleep
  • Releasing tension that contributes to physical and mental drain

By easing both physical discomfort and emotional strain, massage gives the body a better chance to rest, recover, and feel reenergized. Many people report that they sleep more soundly and wake feeling more refreshed after a massage session.


Improving Quality of Life

Massage therapy is not a cure, but it can make a real difference in how someone with lupus experiences their day-to-day life. Regular sessions can:
  • Increase range of motion and flexibility
  • Reduce the frequency and intensity of flare-ups
  • Encourage body awareness and relaxation techniques
  • Provide a sense of control and comfort

Perhaps just as important, massage offers a moment of peace in an otherwise chaotic health journey. It’s a space to breathe, reconnect with one’s body, and feel nurtured.

What to Know Before Getting a Massage for Lupus

Massage therapy for lupus should be personalized and cautious. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:


  • Find a licensed massage therapist who has experience working with autoimmune or chronic pain conditions.
  • Communicate openly about your symptoms, areas of pain or sensitivity, and current medications.
  • Avoid massage during a flare-up unless cleared by your doctor.
  • Ask for a gentler touch—deep tissue may be too intense during certain times.
  • Start with shorter sessions and work your way up.

Always listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. The goal is comfort and healing—not pushing through pain.


Search for "Massage Near Me" to Find a Therapist to Ease Lupus Symptoms

Massage therapy can be a powerful ally in the holistic management of lupus. While it’s not a substitute for medical treatment, it offers real benefits—pain relief, reduced stress, improved sleep, and a better overall sense of well-being.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with lupus for years, consider incorporating massage into your care plan. With the right therapist and approach, massage can be more than just a luxury—it can be a vital part of your self-care routine.

If you are in the Jacksonville, Florida area we'd love to assist you with your self-care goals. The Wellness Hub is open for massage therapy seven days per week and we have a team of therapists to help you feel your best. Contact us today to book the perfect session for your goals.




----

We are pleased to serve the following Florida communities with massage therapy, chiropractic, organic skincare, acupuncture, red light therapy and more: Jacksonville, Orange Park, Fleming Island, Mandarin, Jacksonville Beach, Nocatee, St Johns, Ponte Vedra and beyond.


click here to book online
Call Us (904) 512-7551
0 Comments



Leave a Reply.

    Author

    The Wellness Hub Center for Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, Organic Skincare and Holistic Health in Jacksonville, Florida. A place for wellness, healing and renewal.

    Categories

    All
    Day Spa Jacksonville Florida
    Facials In Jacksonville Fl
    Holistic Healing
    Jacksonville Florida Community
    Massage Therapy Jacksonville Florida
    Natural Wellness
    Organic Spa Jacksonville Fl

    Archives

    June 2025
    May 2025
    April 2025
    March 2025
    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    November 2024
    October 2024
    September 2024
    August 2024
    July 2024
    June 2024
    May 2024
    April 2024
    March 2024
    February 2024
    January 2024
    December 2023
    November 2023
    October 2023
    September 2023
    August 2023
    July 2023
    June 2023
    May 2023
    April 2023
    March 2023
    January 2023
    September 2022
    July 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    September 2021
    July 2021

    RSS Feed

The Wellness Hub
​9086 Cypress Green Drive, Suite A
Jacksonville, Florida 32256
(904) 512-7551
Email Us

Conveniently Located in Jacksonville, Florida - Serving the Jacksonville Metro Area - Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, Ponte Vedra, Neptune Beach, St. Augustine, Nocatee, St. John's County, Orange Park, Fleming Island, Mandarin and beyond

Florida Massage Establishment # MM3687
Hours
Monday 8 am - 8 pm
Tuesday 10 am - 8 pm
Wednesday 8 am - 8 pm
Thursday 8 am - 8 pm
Friday 8 am - 8 pm
Saturday 8 am - 8 pm
Sunday 10 am - 4 pm


Cancellation Policy: You may cancel or reschedule your appointment without charge up to 24 hours before your appointment. 
When you schedule an appointment, time is reserved specifically for you and no one else. No-shows, late cancellations and late reschedules cause a significant impact on our small business and our staff.
Out of respect for our providers, a minimum of 24 hours notice is required for a cancellation or a rescheduling of an appointment. If you cancel or reschedule less than 24 hours before an appointment you will incur a fee. Click here to learn more about our cancellation policy. 


Home
Massage Therapy
Skincare
Acupuncture
Privacy Policy

Chiropractic
​Red Light Therapy
Meet Our Team
Our Reviews
Price Menu
Membership Savings
​Contact/Location
Blog
Gift Certificates
​Book An Appointment
  • Home
  • Massage & Bodywork Services
    • Massage New Client Offers + Meet Our Therapists
    • Massage for Pain Relief
    • Fertility Massage
    • Prenatal & Postpartum Massage
    • Couples Massage
    • Lymphatic Drainage Massage
    • Reiki Healing
    • Cupping Therapy
    • Oncology Massage
    • Massage Enhancements
  • Skincare Services
    • Skincare Menu & New Client Offers
    • Meet Our Esthetician
    • Facial Enhancements Menu
  • Holistic Health Services
    • Acupuncture Care
    • Chiropractic Care
    • Full Body Red Light Therapy
  • About
    • Meet Our Team
    • Reviews
    • Founders, Mission & Values
    • FAQs
    • Aftercare
  • Pricing
    • Price Menu
    • Membership Program Savings
    • Cancellation & Other Policies
  • Blog
  • Contact/Location
  • Gift Certificates
  • Book Appointment