A to Z of MS Massage
Massage is used by some people for relief of musculoskeletal symptoms of MS. It also appears to help general well-being. Massage is often used in combination with aromatherapy.
In a research study of massage and MS, 24 people were randomly assigned to either a 45 minute massage twice weekly for five weeks or to no treatment. The massage group had significantly lower anxiety and a less depressed mood by the end of the study and had significantly improved in self-esteem, body image and image of disease progression. No conclusions however, were drawn about physical symptoms.
Reference
Hernandez-Reif M, et al.
Multiple sclerosis patients benefit from massage therapy.
Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapy 1998;2(3):168-174.