Multiple sclerosis and massage: Benefits, risks, and more

Jun 20, 2023

Massage may help alleviate some symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, it can pose a risk for some individuals. It is a good idea to consult a doctor before beginning massage therapy.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory auto-immune disease that causes the destruction of the protective myelin sheath surrounding the nerves. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including pain, muscle spasms, mobility problems, and fatigue. Massage may help to alleviate some of these symptoms.

This article outlines the different types of massage for MS, including their benefits, risks, and side effects. We also provide tips on how to find a massage therapist and list some questions to ask a doctor before receiving massage therapy.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) notes that massage may help to prevent or alleviate certain symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), including pain and spasticity.

One popular form of massage in the United States that may be beneficial is Swedish massage, which combines the following traditional massage techniques:

Massage is a type of bodywork therapy. These are hands-on therapies that aim to improve the structure and function of the body and boost overall well-being.

Some other types of bodywork therapy that may benefit individuals living with MS include:

People typically use massage to:

For people with MS, massage may help to prevent or alleviate certain symptoms, including:

A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis found that massage therapy interventions were associated with reduced pain and fatigue among people living with MS.

A 2022 systematic review suggests that different types of massage could be beneficial for different MS symptoms. The authors found that Swedish massage could help to alleviate pain and fatigue, while reflexology could help to alleviate anxiety and depression.

An earlier 2016 review notes that massage may yield more beneficial effects than exercise for a person with MS, especially if the person finds exercise too exhausting.

Although massage can be beneficial for people living with MS, it also poses some risks.

People with the following conditions should consult a doctor before receiving massage therapy:

According to the NMSS, people should also consult a doctor about the safety of massage if they are pregnant or have any of the following:

A person can use the free massage therapist locator on the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) website to search for a qualified massage therapist.

People can also search for a massage therapist who specializes in a specific type of massage. For example, people can find a Feldenkrais practitioner through the Feldenkrais Guild of North America or a Trager practitioner through the United States Trager Association.

A person can also ask their doctor for recommendations.

It’s important that a person with MS check with their doctor to determine whether massage is safe for them.

Questions a person may want to ask their doctor include:

Massage may be a beneficial add-on or adjuvant therapy for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Research indicates that it may help prevent or alleviate the physical symptoms of MS, such as pain, spasticity, and poor circulation. It may also help alleviate stress and anxiety.

There are various types of massage a person with MS may want to consider, including Swedish massage, acupressure, and reflexology.

However, certain conditions may make massage unsafe for a person with MS. Examples include edema, osteoporosis, and ulceration or enlargement of the liver or spleen.

As such, a person should speak to their doctor to help ensure a particular type of massage is safe for their individual condition.