Benefits of Massage Therapy for HIV and AIDS

Over the years, HIV has become a treatable disease, with long prognosis and good quality of life; however, a cure has not been found yet. As in many chronic conditions, science looks to reduce symptoms, avoid disease progression (AIDS) and improve the general wellbeing of patients. Recent research showed many benefits of Massage Therapy for HIV and AIDS patients. In this blog, we will talk about what these conditions are and how massage can help you. Let´s have a closer look…

What is HIV?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks cells called CD4 which are a type of T-cells, white blood cells ( immune system), that defend us from viruses, germs, infections and illnesses. When not treated, this virus turns into AIDS and makes patients vulnerable to diseases.

What is AIDS?

AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV. On the other hand, HIV patients who intake treatment as prescribed are at very low risk of developing AIDS.

HIV (if not treated properly) causes AIDS by attacking CD4 cells and turning them into HIV factories; in other words, CD4 cells turn into HIV cells and multiply and spread all over your body (circulatory and lymphatic systems) weakening your immune system (less- t cells:CD4 cells) and making you vulnerable to get infections that can be dangerous for your health or mortal.

Benefits of Massage Therapy for HIV and AIDS

Recent research showed evidence to support the use of massage therapy to improve quality of life and immune function in patients living with HIV/AIDS. The objective of this systematic review was to examine the safety and effectiveness of massage therapy on quality of life, pain and immune system parameters in people living with HIV/AIDS. The trials were small, nevertheless, the results were convincing. Here some conclusions:

Massage therapy stimulates lymphatic and blood flow (Manual Lymphatic Drainage) helps transport immune cells and detoxify the body, potentially supporting immune responses. Disclaimer: for patients who intake treatment as prescribed.
All patients of any age and at any stage of the disease can benefit from massage therapy.
There are positive changes in immune function, in particular CD4+ cell count and natural killer cell counts (rise), due to massage therapy.
Pain reduction.
Stress and anxiety reduction.
Lowers risk of depression.
Improves energy levels.
Improvement in general quality of life.
Massage therapy can be combined with other stress-management modalities and may have the same positive effect on immunological function.
Adverse or harmful effects were not well reported.

A final word…

There are many proven benefits of MLD and massage therapy for HIV and AIDS patients, however, further and extensive studies are needed to show more benefits. If you are a HIV or AIDS patient, remember, you are not alone! we are here for you.

We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always glad to help. If you like this blog, please share!