Should I use Massage Therapy?
There are over 80 types of massage therapy, all of which involve techniques that manipulate the muscles and soft tissue and increase blood flow and oxygen. It may be used in conjunction with aromatherapy and sound therapy to encourage a relaxed state. Massage therapy is regulated on a state by state basis. Some states require massage therapists to be licensed and hold a national certification, while others have very minimal requirements to hold a state certification. Massage is considered in some instances to be part of conventional medicine especially in the case of treatment for injury. When massage is used for therapeutic benefits outside this range it may be considered a CAM technique.
Pros | Cons |
Parents who were taught massage techniques for their child with a disability reported less anxiety in themselves as well as improvement in their children. Massage may be a unique soothing technique and bonding experience between parent/child. | The effects of various massage therapies have not been specifically studied in children or adults with bipolar disorder. |
One study compared massage therapy to relaxation therapy in a group of aggressive adolescents. The massage therapy group showed reduced anxiety and aggressiveness compared to the relaxation group | Massage therapy is not generally covered by insurance except in the cases of injury or accident. |
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (1992 Jan;31(1):125-31) reported the effects of massage in a group of children and adolescents hospitalized for depression. The study noted a decrease in depression/anxiety and stress hormones and an increase in cooperation and sleep. | There are many different types of massage and skill levels of massage therapists, which may ultimately influence outcome. |
Excerpt from The Childhood Bipolar Disorder Answer Book published by Sourcebooks, Inc.
Copyright 2008 by Tracy Anglada and Sheryl Hakala All Rights Reserved