How Massage Therapy Eases My Parkinson's Symptoms

I have had Parkinson’s disease (PD) for 20 years and deep brain stimulation (DBS) for 10 years now. I have finally conceded that DBS may no longer capture some symptoms as well as it used to. For example, the stiffness, some minor inconvenient things called tremors, more and more pain, and always, the dystonia.

I also have begun that wonderful ritual of falling again. When I say "again," I mean quite often, like once or twice a week. It just so happens that 2 of these tumbles prompted this article.

As I lay there on the floor with my husband standing over me asking me, "Are you okay?" I realized I wasn't so much hurt as hurting. All my muscles were stiff and aching; I was stressed, and my cervical dystonia was out of control. It was then I realized I needed my friendly massage therapist, Joe!

How massage can help with Parkinson's

So where does massage fit into the overall package for maintaining a healthy lifestyle for a person with PD? Although there is limited research, 1 clinical trial did show that massage therapy helped improve quality of life for people with Parkinson's.¹

As far as I am concerned, massage is not a luxury. It is necessary for my emotional and medical health and well-being.

Preparing for an appointment

Before trying massage therapy, you should check in with your doctor and talk to your massage therapist about PD. Your therapist should be knowledgeable about the body dynamics and at least have some idea about Parkinson’s. Make sure you are comfortable with your massage therapist. Be honest and open. Don't rush.

This is also about relaxing your body and mind. Give yourself permission to stop for that 60 minutes and "just be!" Throughout your session, your therapist should talk you through what they are doing and ask for feedback on what is working.

If you are lucky enough to live in an area where you can find a massage therapist that comes to you, even better!

Find your massage therapist

To finish up the story of my 2 falls in one week, I reached for the phone and called Joe! He is my trusted massage therapist who makes house calls at no extra charge! I explained to Joe what had happened and that I was in a considerable amount of pain. Thankfully, he arrived an hour later with his massage table and oils in hand.

My husband moved the couch in the living room back enough to make room for the massage table, and we had therapeutic music playing and low lighting, just like a massage room.

Joe set up the table and placed our sheet and pillow on it. He is very discreet and respectful. About an hour later, I needed to be peeled off the massage table, but I felt so much better!

I recommend massage to everyone I know - Parkinson’s or not! Now, I have noticed women seem more inclined to get massages. After having tricked my husband (who also has Parkinson’s) into getting onto a massage table at a conference once, he is now a convert! Massage relieved dystonia in his shoulders and neck that was hurting so badly.

Men ... do not be shy about this. It is about your health and wellness! No matter what age or body type you are, or if you have shaven your legs (women), the therapists do not care. A good one cares about your well-being and helps you be healthier! I know Joe is that way! Go find your Joe!