Massage Therapy as Part of Stroke Rehabilitation

Massage Therapy as Part of Stroke Rehabilitation

A stroke can affect everyone differently. Some people experience muscle weakness, changes in sensation, or reduced mobility on one side of the body. Others may also live with fatigue, emotional shifts, or sensory overload. While massage doesn’t treat the underlying cause of stroke, it can be a gentle and supportive therapy during recovery or long-term care.

How Can Massage Help Stroke Patients?

Research has shown according to Trafimovich, Y (2023) and says  massage therapy may support stroke survivors by encouraging relaxation and reducing muscle tension. Support circulation in areas with reduced movement, eases  swelling,  promotes  lymph flow, helps to improve body awareness/calms the nervous system and provides  a peaceful experience of touch. For those who feel self-conscious or uncertain after a stroke, massage can also offer a safe way to reconnect with the body in a supportive space.

Getting Started

If someone is recovering from a recent stroke, we may begin with shorter sessions or focus on areas of swelling or stiffness. Over time, the sessions can evolve to support broader comfort and relaxation. A consultation is taken on your initial assessment and treatment,we use a gentle approach that’s always adapted to the patients, energy, comfort, and goals.All sessions include time to check in about physical and emotional needs, and to adapt techniques and positioning to what feels safe and accessible.

For Families and Carers

We understand that stroke recovery can affect the whole family. If you support someone who’s had a stroke, we are happy to involve you in planning the session, and can work alongside other medical professionals and support teams if required 

A Word on Medical Care

Massage is a complementary therapy—it doesn’t replace medical treatment. We always encourage clients to speak with their GP, neurologist, or rehabilitation team if they’re unsure whether massage is right for them. We are also  happy to work in collaboration with your wider healthcare team, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists and your GP which is fundamental to our approach.

Book an appointment.

We offer home and hospital sessions depending on your location.

For further information and enquiries about treatment.

Contact Jenny @surrealholistictherapy.com  or  07758754317 

For addidtional information about stroke, visit the Stroke Association

Reference 

Stroke Patients: Benefits And Precautions Of Massage Therapy. Trafimovich, Y (2023) cited in 

Stroke Patients: Benefits And Precautions Of Massage Therapy | MedShun Accessed(28.11.2025)

Stroke Association - Strength through support(2023) cited in 

Stroke Association | Strength through support   Accessed( 28.11.2025)