Massage and Thyroid Health

benefits of MASSAGE therapy for THYROID HEALTH

January is National Thyroid Awareness Month—a time for massage practitioners to learn how clients with thyroid issues might benefit clinical massage therapy. About 10 million Americans suffer from some type of hypothyroidism and studies show that massage therapy can benefit the thyroid and, in effect, hypothyroid patients in significant ways.

Hypothyroidism is characterized by the thyroid gland’s inability to produce enough levels of hormones. The condition includes many symptoms including fatigue, depression, muscle weakness, and fluctuations in weight. Because these symptoms develop slowly over time, hypothyroidism is considered difficult to diagnose.

The biggest thyroid massage therapy benefits patients experience is improved lymphatic and blood circulation. Lymphatic flow is crucial for all endocrine organs; therefore the thyroid benefits from increased circulation. Another benefit of a thyroid massage is reduced inflammation. Some studies say massage therapy creates a result similar to anti-inflammatory medications. The third advantage of hypothyroidism massage therapy is reduced stress within the body, decreasing cortisol and other stress hormones.

As a massage therapist, you are in the unique position to help your clients suffering from this illness. To learn more about massage therapy courses, check out The Soma Institute.