MS and Massage

Everyday living
1

Hi guys

Hope you are doing ok? I have decided to book myself a massage - my legs are so stiff and I’m really struggling to walk!

Any views on whether I should go for a deep tissue or aromatherapy massage?

Thanks

Sue x

2

Hi, I have a massage every 5 weeks, mainly on my back and neck, because I too get really stiff, I always ask for them not to go too deep, as for me this doesn’t help with the fatigue, it took too much out of me when the lady went to deep. I’ve had both done, aromatherapy one was lovely, so relaxing, good luck and enjoy,
Jean

3

Hi Sue
Like Jean i enjoyed the aromatherapy one, I found that very relaxing but did not enjoy the deep massage, in fact the deep one made me feel quite nauseous.

I realise we are all different so perhaps have a word with the person who will be doing it.

Hope you enjoy it.

Pam x

4

Hiya - thanks so much for your advice. Yes the aromatherapy massage sounds like it would be more relaxing. Think I’ll change to that one! x

5

Hi

As a sceptical older man I had my first ever massage to attempt to avoid the use of drugs for stiff legs.

Through a variety of on line live courses for Pilates Yoga and general MS oriented courses I have managed to keep the upper body flexible and working possibly even better than pre COVID and pre diagnosis.

I was recommended to a very experienced and knowledgeable masseur who had had people with MS before.

Very much I told her where my problems were and let her decide what she thought appropriate.

I did come out feeling very much better than when I went in.

While having someone’s undivided attention and pampering will probably be beneficial, finding someone with a wealth of experience and knowledge is likely to do even more. I suspect they are in short supply and I would seek a recommendation from someone else with MS.

Colin

6

Hiya Colin - thanks for your detailed response. It does make sense to have a massage by someone that knows about MS. I’ll go ahead with the aromatherapy massage at Champneys as it’s booked and paid for, following which I’ll look for a more specialist one.

Thanks again x

7

Hi Sue
A nice gentle massage with essential oils, candles and ethereal music may be relaxing but how much good will it do in the long run?

I would suggest either a trip to an osteopath or chiropractor to properly manipulate the joints, or possibly a lymphoedema massage to relieve excess fluid build up in underutilised legs.
Graeme

8

I use a sports physio, she understands MS, brilliant at relieving tightness in legs and lower back etc. Makes a massive difference to my mobility and I get a 1hr session every month

9

Hi there,
When I was a teen I was fortunate to have Bowen therapy/technique/treatment done on my spine, by Mum’s friend from work.
This was the only massage I’ve had to help alleviate symptoms; I didn’t have another relapse for nine years.
I’m in my forties now, by the way.
Good luck and best.