Massage Therapy for Chronic and Autoimmune Diseases

Suzan D. Walker LMT 104331
Sep 13, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Sep 16, 2025

Woman receiving lymphatic drainage and massage treatment. Massage is beneficial for chronic conditions such a swelling after surgery.

Living with a chronic autoimmune disease can feel overwhelming. Sometimes it feels like you’re completely alone without a support system that understands what you’re going through.

As a person who deals with chronic Lyme disease firsthand, I understand how isolating and exhausting these challenges can feel. This is why I am focused on supporting clients like you. When you visit me, you're not just getting a therapist; you're connecting with someone who relates, empathizes, and can offer you comfort and relief through personalized care.

How Massage Can Help

Research has shown that massage therapy can provide real, measurable benefits for people with acute and chronic autoimmune conditions:

Fibromyalgia - A meta-analysis of 9 trials with 404 patients showed massage therapy for at least 5 weeks significantly reduced pain, anxiety, and depression. Another review found myofascial release in particular provided strong relief from pain, stiffness, and fatigue.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - A 2025 systematic review found massage reduced joint pain, improved function, and even lowered inflammatory markers including IL6, TNFα, and cortisol. Some RA patients needed less medication after regular massage.
Lyme Disease - A case study followed a 21-year-old with chronic Lyme symptoms over 65 days. During massage periods she experienced less pain, fatigue, and brain fog, while symptoms worsened in non-treatment periods. Every massage session improved her mood. PubMed
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Reviews show massage significantly reduces fatigue, pain, and muscle spasms. PubMed
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) - In a large survey, 63 percent of people with POTS reported massage helped with their symptoms, though about 13 percent felt worse. This shows how important it is to work gently and carefully with each individual.
Long COVID - Studies suggest massage may ease fatigue, sleep problems, and pain, which overlap heavily with autoimmune and chronic illness symptoms.

Woman receiving reiki for relaxation and stress reduction.

My Services and Approach

Each session is tailored to your energy levels, symptoms, and comfort. I use a variety of techniques to gently support your healing process, including:

Massage and Bodywork - Lymphatic drainage aids in reducing swelling and metabolic waste. Techniques include myofascial release and trigger point therapy, as well as the use of IASTM tools such as Gua Sha and Graston, and Mechanical MediCupping.
Seasonal Therapies - Warm bamboo fusion massage available during colder months. Hot stone therapy for warmth and improved circulation
Stretching and Mobility - Gentle isometric stretching involving passive and assisted techniques to enhance flexibility
Energy and Nervous System Support - Craniosacral therapy, Reiki and energy work, sound therapy, red light therapy, Azazzia, infrared mat, and bio magnetic tools might assist in promoting relaxation and alleviating pain.
Aromatherapy - Provides numerous benefits, such as alleviating pain and promoting relaxation.
Bolsters and Pillows - Knee and body bolsters, along with a breast pillow, provide additional comfort and support during your massage session. Please request these in advance.

By using a variety of techniques, clients often leave feeling more at ease and relaxed than when they did before coming in.

Important Notes

Massage cannot be performed if you have a rash, open wounds, or active infection.
Some clients may feel sore or fatigued after treatment, especially in the beginning. This is temporary and should ease with regular care.
Everyone responds differently to massage. My role is to observe and adjust techniques to keep sessions safe and effective.

I understand what it’s like to live in a body that doesn’t always cooperate. Some days you feel strong, and other days just getting out of bed is an accomplishment.

With me, you'll have a massage therapist who not only understands the science and techniques but also shares your experience of living with a chronic autoimmune disease.

Massage will not cure your condition, but it can help you manage symptoms, feel more balanced, and reclaim moments of peace with your body. Let’s work together to create space for relief, comfort, and healing.