Massage Therapy for Seniors: The Basics, the Benefits, the Risks

If you or your loved one is a senior, you should be informed about what is good for seniors' health, and what is not.

As such, before seniors visit a massage therapist, they should understand the health effects that come with getting a massage. The good news for seniors in Jacksonville, Florida looking to get a massage is that it's almost always safe for seniors to participate in massage therapy. In fact, some benefits come with regular massage therapy for our senior citizen population. Below is a discussion of the benefits seniors stand to gain from massage therapy.

Are Massages Safe for Seniors?

Yes, massages are safe for most seniors. According to the American Massage Therapy Association, massages are, more often than not, safe for seniors. Although there are some instances seniors would want to avoid getting a massage—like if they have just begun to recover from severe cardiac issues—oftentimes massages can help seniors manage any health conditions they might have. For example, the symptoms that come with issues such as diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer's, and more can be managed with the help of massage therapy.

What Should You Look for in a Massage Therapy Clinic for Seniors?

The most important thing you should be looking for in a massage therapy clinic is flexible providers. Professionals who work with seniors need to be incredibly malleable because seniors need customized care. In addition, you'll want to find a massage therapist who is a good listener and communicator. Whether the senior can discuss their symptoms themself or a caretaker needs to, a good massage therapist should be actively listening to the needs of the senior client, to provide a fulfilling and safe massage.

In terms of what kinds of services you should be looking for, many different services could benefit seniors; in general, it's good to find a provider who can offer lymphatic massage sessions. These sessions help clients drain their lymphatic system and allow it to work better. This process is not quite a massage, but it is performed by a qualified massage therapist. For seniors who have been lethargic, tired, or ill, scheduling lymphatic drainage massage sessions might be the thing that helps them feel more alert and healthier. Seniors can receive this treatment before surgery, after surgery, or in the case of an injury.

At our massage therapy practice at The Wellness Hub in Jacksonville, Florida, we offer many different providers who are dedicated to offering quality, customized massage therapy sessions.

Pain Relief for Seniors Through Massage

Moreover, getting a massage for pain is often beneficial for seniors. Living with chronic pain can be draining mental, physically and emotionally, however with seniors participating in a massage that is catered toward alleviating pain, their quality of life can improve dramatically. Whether a senior has shoulder issues, neck pain, sciatica, or other conditions, going to a massage therapist could improve their condition. There are even more treatments a massage therapist could perform on a senior, so talk to your massage therapist for more information about what's best for you or your loved ones' situation.

When Would a Massage Not Be Safe for Seniors?

Let's return to the few instances when it wouldn't be safe for seniors to get a massage. It isn't always advised that seniors with heart conditions get a massage. Sometimes, massages result in the clients' blood pressure rising, which can be dangerous for those with heart issues. However, there are ways to reduce risk factors (using pacemakers, getting soft massages, and being hydrated before, during, and after massage). Of course, seniors with health issues must talk to their primary care physician before getting a massage. If you have questions, consult with your massage therapist and your doctor.

Seniors Stay Well with The Wellness Hub

​We've discussed how massage therapy can be beneficial for seniors. As seniors age, they should pay more attention to taking care of their health. At The Wellness Hub, we're committed to helping seniors in Jacksonville, FL stay well through massage therapy and even additional holistic health services such as acupuncture. Contact us for more information about our services for seniors, as we are committed to the health and well-being of all age groups in our community of Jacksonville, Florida.

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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 more.
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