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Massage Therapy for Long COVID Syndrome

COVID-19 may not be the epidemic it was a few years ago, but it is still a part of our daily lives. Infections still happen, but the distressing long-term effects continue to baffle scientists. Lasting problems from people who have had the virus vary between people, and include respiratory, mood, memory, gastrointestinal, and skin problems, among others. Some might have a permanently altered sense of smell, while others experience headaches and dizziness. Because of the variety of symptoms, it is difficult for doctors to treat patients struggling with Long COVID. As a result, more people are turning to naturopathic methods to reduce the stress of the illness.





This year, the scientists at University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville conducted a study to see if massage therapy was a viable option for the treatment of individuals with Long COVID syndrome.


"We identified the pulmonary and nervous systems to be the organ systems most affected with post-COVID sequelae, with PTSD, fatigue, dyspnea, cough, sleep disturbances, loss of smell, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite as the most common symptoms."

With the symptoms that most commonly need managed identified, they evaluated the efficiency of massage therapy as a treatment for each one. PTSD was the most common ongoing problem in people who recovered from the virus. There is already evidence of the benefits of massage for people with PTSD, because it reduces cortisol levels and activates the parasympathetic nervous system. Similarly, there is strong research demonstrating the benefit of massage for people with long-term fatigue.


Some of the organ systems affected are not what we normally associate massage with, and yet some of these are treatable as well. There is evidence to suggest that massage helps regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, making it a great option for gastrointestinal or respiratory treatment, especially when combined with other medical care.


Why does massage help?


  • Immune system regulation

  • Inflammation reduction

  • Increased circulation

  • Activated parasympathetic system

  • Reduced cortisol levels

  • Increased dopamine and serotonin

  • No adverse side effects

More research is needed to determine the long term effects of massage on these symptoms and Long COVID syndrome as a whole. With more research being done on the illness, its effects over time, and massage as a helpful modality for symptom management, we are sure to learn more in the coming years.

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