Multiple sclerosis

[Another Censored Enigma]

Is it ok tomassage a client with MS, I have a friend who suffers with MS and she wants to be acase study for my ITEC course.
If so, are there any specific areas to concentrate on or movements to avoid, also how do you think sheis likely to benefit.

Your help would be greatly appreciated.

Belle
X

 

[kimbolina452003]

Hi Belle,

You have been given a great opportunity here to make a difference in this persons life, so use it to your fullest advantage. Most new therapists (and some more experienced ones as well), avoid treating people with incurable or terminal illnesses, and this is a tragic thing to do.

Many years ago (18 actually)I was advised to NOT select such difficult illnesses when choosing what I would do my thesis on. The reason was that if I did choose something like that, I would have to PROVE categorically that massage can make a significant difference in the lives of those afflicted, and they doubted that I could PROVE it to their satisfaction. If I failed in this, I would fail period, and would have to repeat my final year again. It was suggested that all the students should stick to more conventional uses of massage.

Needless to say I did not heed their warning, and chose to do my thesis on Parkinson's disease. I spent that year studying the disease, all medications (and their contraindications), speaking to doctors, gathering information from as many Parkinsons disease associations and self help groups as I could find, and massaging and noting any improvements or otherwise on25 volunteer patients. I massaged (and cupped) these people weekly for six months ( this is the agreement they had to commit to).

I received one of the highest grades ever achieved, and that was because I COULD prove categorically that massage (and cupping) could make a massive difference to the most disabling aspect of that disease, which is the "cogwheel rigidity" symptoms all such patients suffer. This helped my reputation and business no end, and even included speaking engagements on the topic to interested groups.

You have such an opportunity here. I have no doubt whatsoever that you can massage MS patients, but you must do your homework thoroughly on the disease, medications etc, so that you can competently learn any and all contraindications before you begin. Once you are comfortable with your knowledge, you will be confident to proceed, and what a wonderful feeling that will be knowing that your competent and nurturing touch, is making this person feel so much better.

Remember though, that people suffering these diseases will never recover normal health, short of some miraculous medical cure being found, so once you are beginning to see some good results, your client will continue to need the regular treatments, to maintain any improvement. MS is a terminal illness, so the best you can hope for is to make them more comfortable, and more capable of dealing with their daily lives, both physically and mentally.

Of the 25 patients I treated, all but 3 continued treatment following the trial, and even when I could no longer treat them myself due to moving interstate, they were passed onto other competent and caring therapists for continued therapy. The 3 that chose not to do that had ALL of their symptoms return in less than a month. That is pretty telling don't you think? If you start this treatment, just make sure your client understands this.

Finally, nurturing hands are loving hands,and no-one needs them more than the terminally ill. God Bless you as you continue your studies, and especially in the treatment of such a needy group of people. It is a joy to know that you can make such a difference.

Hugs
Janne

 

[india lima foxtrot]

Thanks for your wise words and well done you for perservering, too many people seem embarresed about the subject of terminal illnesses. I have known my friend for over 15 years and have learnt a considerable amount about MS in that time.

You are right about the opportunity, having researched the benefits of palliative massage I am sure I can help her. Sheis going toher doctor for a letter of referral and my tutor has given the go-ahead so we will take it from there.

Many thanks for the pm´s on this subject as well.

Belle X

 

[lollipopsy]

Belle, good luck and I am sure that you will find ways to work with MS that improve the quality of life for your friend.

Janne, many thanks for a beautiful and inspirational post - I can see how you are justly proud, but at the same time humbled by task and the people you have worked with. A lovely story and some very sound advice - I stand in awe.

InTouch

 

[NayaMee]

Firstly, my apologies for the quickness of this post - i'm in a dash, but wanted to share an article with you - Massage & Multiple Sclerosis by Marilyn Biles.

My mum suffers from MS so the subject is close to my heart. Massage can be such a powerful healing treatment for MS suffers, mentally, physically and emotionally. Just make sure you discuss everything in full with your client, and ensure that lots of feedback is given. The article has some really useful tips.

Thankyou!!
Mat xxx