Lupus & Massage


Lupus is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body attacks itself as if it were a foreign body--like a virus--that poses a health threat. People who have lupus, also referred to as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), do not all show the same symptoms. The disease can affect muscles, joints, the skin and other organs throughout the body. Common symptoms of lupus can include a rash, fever, muscle pain and kidney dysfunction. In addition to medications to help keep lupus symptoms in check, alternative methods such as massage can be beneficial to lupus sufferers.

Pain Relief

Pain relief is a benefit that some people with lupus may experience through massage therapy. According to the Lupus Foundation of America, massage may not be appropriate for those who have a form of the condition called cutaneous lupus, as the touch to the skin may actually aggravate symptoms. However, patients who do not display skin involvement may be ideal candidates for massage.

Massage may only be performed after a flare up or when the acute stage is over.
According to the New York chapter of the SLE Lupus Foundation, massage releases endorphins, which are the body's natural pain relievers. The bodywork can also relieve physical tension in the muscles that may be contributing to pain.


Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/95785-benefits-massage-lupus/#ixzz0wJ0BHfi7