How Massage Therapy Can Help With Diabetes

A Holistic Approach to Diabetes Care

As of 2021, an estimated 30 million Americans—nearly 9% of the population—are living with diabetes. Even more concerning, about 1 in 5 may not yet know they have it.

Diabetes isn’t a single disease, but rather a group of related autoimmune and metabolic disorders caused by the body’s inability to produce or properly use insulin. The result is excess glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream, which over time can lead to serious complications including:

• Cardiovascular disease

• Kidney damage

• Vision impairment

• Edema (fluid retention in the extremities)

• Neuropathy (nerve damage)
  
  

Traditional Treatment Approaches

Although there’s currently no cure, diabetes can often be effectively managed through:

• Regular blood sugar monitoring

• Insulin or oral medication

• Healthy diet and weight management

• Regular exercise and stress control
  
  

More recently, massage therapy has gained attention as a complementary approach that can support these medical strategies—helping patients manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

How Massage Supports Diabetes Management

Massage therapy isn’t a replacement for medical care, but it offers meaningful benefits that can make daily management easier and more comfortable.

1. Massage May Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels

A 2011 study of diabetic children in Iran found a significant decrease in blood glucose levels among participants who received three 15-minute Swedish massages per week. Similarly, a 2022 study on adults with type 2 diabetes compared three groups—control, routine massage, and abdominal massage. Both massage groups showed improved A1C, total cholesterol, and gut microbiota balance.

Researchers concluded that massage may:

• Expand blood vessels and improve circulation

• Promote insulin secretion

• Enhance nerve and immune system function

• Increase glucose uptake by muscle tissue

“As a complementary treatment strategy, massage is a promising way to support the management of type 2 diabetes.” — 2022 Study on Massage and T2DM

2. Massage Improves Circulation

Healthy blood flow is vital for people with diabetes, especially because the condition often slows circulation and delays wound healing. Massage promotes circulation throughout the body, bringing oxygen and nutrients to tissues and helping prevent complications in the extremities.

3. Massage Reduces Stress and Cortisol

Stress raises blood sugar by stimulating the release of cortisol and adrenaline—hormones that increase glucose production and insulin resistance. Massage helps counteract these effects by lowering stress hormones and activating the body’s relaxation response, supporting more stable blood sugar levels.

Regular massage also improves sleep quality, another critical factor for metabolic and hormonal balance.

4. Massage Supports Nerve Health and Reduces Neuropathy Pain

Up to 50% of people with diabetes experience some form of neuropathy, which can cause tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands and feet.

Massage can stimulate the nerves and improve circulation, often leading to reduced pain and improved sensation. A 2015 study on Thai foot massage found that participants who received 30-minute sessions three times a week for two weeks reported improved sensation, range of motion, and overall mobility.

Safety and Considerations

Massage is generally safe for most individuals with diabetes, but there are important precautions to keep in mind:

• If you have cardiovascular disease, kidney issues, ulcers, or severe neuropathy, seek a therapist experienced with medical or clinical massage.

• Schedule your massage midway between insulin doses, when blood sugar is most stable.

• Always inform your therapist about your condition and how to respond if your blood sugar drops (for example, with juice or glucose tablets).
  
  

With open communication, your therapist can ensure your massage is both safe and therapeutic.

A Supportive Step Toward Better Health

Massage therapy is a gentle yet powerful addition to diabetes management—helping regulate stress, improve circulation, reduce pain, and support overall wellbeing.

Whether you’re managing diabetes or simply want to feel your best, Niceville Massage Co. brings care and comfort directly to you.

Book your in-home massage today and experience how therapeutic touch can help restore balance—body, mind, and spirit.