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Massage is soothing, calming and known for its many benefits. And it seems it may also help better manage ADHD symptoms.
A study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice showed that tactile massage may help reduce symptoms of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adolescents. Some symptoms include constant nervousness, inability to sit still, difficulty concentrating, and other hyperactive and inattentive behaviors. However, study participants reported better sleep quality as well as significant improvements in focus and attention after this technique.
Also read: ADHD: Factors Affecting Symptoms; doctor explains
Benefits of tactile massage
Researchers detailed the usefulness of tactile massage for reducing ADHD symptoms. Tactile massage involves light, slow and rhythmic strokes on the arms, legs and back. It promotes relaxation. It has also shown the ability to relieve stress and improve emotional well-being.
“Adolescents with ADHD often face challenges such as hyperactivity, inattention, stress, and sleep difficulties, which standard treatments cannot fully address,” said study author Anna-Carin Robertz. As a specialist nurse in child and adolescent psychiatry, I have seen these struggles first-hand and wanted to find out if tactile massage could provide additional benefits in managing these symptoms and improving overall well-being. May be a safe and non-invasive option.
Also read: Are social media videos reassuring adults that they don’t have diagnosed ADHD? Researchers warn against self-diagnosis
More information about research
The study examined 14 adolescents aged 15 to 17 with ADHD. They were on stable medication, while some were without medication and had no serious mental health conditions, substance abuse, or ongoing psychological treatment. This focused the attention only on ADHD symptoms.
The experiment involved ten weekly sessions of tactile massage that the participants went through. This was done by a tactile massage therapist. The massage featured slow, rhythmic strokes targeting the back, arms, hands and legs. The atmosphere was also filled with dim lighting, quiet music and unscented oil. The results showed that there was a significant reduction in hyperactive and impulsive behaviors as well as secondary issues such as poor sleep quality. This study opens new avenues of ADHD treatment and management of symptoms with a more holistic approach.
Also read: Study shows 3% of schoolchildren show symptoms of both autism and ADHD
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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