Focusing On My Back Injuries
Is Massage Safe For Diabetics?
Timothy Byrd
Massage has long proven to be beneficial for overall health and mental wellness. If you're diabetic, however, you may be wondering whether it's safe for you to get a massage since the procedure involves manipulating tissues in the body. The good news is, if your diabetes is well controlled, it is safe for you to partake in this luxury. However, there are a couple of precautions you'll need to take to minimize the risk of experiencing complications.
Closely Monitor Glucose Levels
It's well known that massage can help you relax and reduce your stress levels, which may assist in minimizing your risk of developing co-morbid conditions such as heart disease. However, massage can also reduce your blood glucose levels.
One study found that patients who received a light massage for six weeks (one time per week) experienced a drop in blood sugar levels among other things. Another informal study conducted at a massage facility found that type 1 diabetic patients experienced drops in blood sugar levels of up to 100 mg/dl after a one hour massage. However, the average was around 20 to 40 mg/dl.
Massage can also lower blood sugar levels over the long term. One study that followed parents who gave their diabetic children a full-body massage every night for 30 days found the kids glucose levels dropped from an average of 158 mg/dl to 118 mg/dl.
It's essential that you closely monitor your blood glucose levels once you begin receiving massages and report any changes to your doctor. Your healthcare provider may adjust your medication as a response to prevent problems like hypoglycemia from developing. Additionally, be certain to have a small snack before getting the massage or have something to eat on hand just in case your blood sugar levels drop too low during the procedure.
Beware of Injuries
Diabetic neuropathy occurs when the excess glucose in the blood damages the nerves in the body. There is no cure for the condition, but getting regular massages can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with the disease such as numbness, tingling, and pain.
Unfortunately, diabetic neuropathy reduces nerve sensitivity. One of the ongoing dangers of having this condition is sustaining an injury and not knowing about until it's too late to fix. For instance, many diabetics get cuts in their feet but don't realize it at the time it occurs. The cut eventually gets infected and leads to amputation because the person didn't get it treated in time.
For the most part, massages are safe. However, injuries have been known to occur because some inexperienced patients believe that the more painful the massage, the better the results. However, massage doesn't have to be painful to be effective. If you have diabetic neuropathy, make a habit of examining yourself after receiving a massage. Make note of any bruising or odd pangs. If these things don't resolve within a reasonable period of time, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Talk with a place like Bakke Chiropractic Clinic SC for more tips on staying safe while getting a massage.
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A few months ago, I realized that it was getting progressively more difficult to move around like I used to. Lifting was a chore, sleeping was difficult, and bending over was absolutely grueling. My back hurt when I did just about anything, so I decided to seek help. I contacted a chiropractor in my area for help, and it was amazing how helpful the chiropractor was. I was able to get in for an appointment the same day, and my problems melted away as the doctor worked on my back. My blog details my journey, so that you can see how helpful the right care can be.