AUGUST: SPINAL MUSCULAR ATROPHY AWAREMESS MONTH
- Tiffany NMT
- Aug 13, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 8, 2023
Understanding Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
Massage therapy on weak and atrophied muscles can have multiple therapeutic effects and benefits. It can increase blood supply and nutrition to the muscle tissue by increasing the circulation and dilation of blood vessels. This also can prevent the adhesions of muscle fibers and increase muscle tissue metabolism. The increased blood flow leads to an increase in red blood cells and nutrients, which optimizes muscle growth and delays atrophy.
We use different manual techniques such as soft tissue massage, edema reduction massage, and manual stretching to increase the comfort and functional mobility of the client.
People with SMA typically sit in a wheelchair all day, and don’t have the muscle capability to move their legs frequently throughout the day to decrease edema build up in the ankles and feet. Therefore, edema reduction massage is a great tool to decrease the fluid built up in the ankles and feet, to increase comfort and decrease risk of blood clots and other serious medical issues.
Muscle used throughout the day to work on the computer and/or navigate the controls on their wheelchair can cause the upper body extremities to spasm & be tight. During treatment muscle groups relax as we increase tissue extensibility , gaining you more control & increased range of motion.
If you know someone with Spinal Muscular Atrophy give them the gift of a massage and become more educated on the topic. We have attached a link that better describes this genetic disorder and the research that is currently surrounding it. Help support patients with this disease and support the continuing research as well.
GREAT ARTICLE ON WAYS TO STAY ACTIVE WITH SMA -Link in Image
Massage for Muscle Atrophy [Research Perch]
Book Your session today and lets create a plan to get your out of pain, get your range of motion back and prevent injury.
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