Finding Relief: CP & Massage

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Today, I want to share one of my favorite self-care practices that has seriously improved my quality of life: getting massages twice a week. Yep, you heard that right – twice a week! Also, the best part is that the massage therapists come right to my house. When I was living in a dorm, they even came to my dorm room.

First things first, I usually lie on my side so my therapist can work on my back and neck. When I’m in this position, I face away from my computer. No worries, though. I use Morse code with long and short blinks to communicate when needed. It’s a neat little system that lets me stay connected even when I’m not directly looking at my screen. Also, instead of the massage table, I lay on my bed, making it even more comfortable.

Massages are all about relaxation, but I get a bit anxious if I’m without my computer. It’s my lifeline for communication, after all. To solve this, I have an awesome floor stand that lets me use my computer even when I’m in bed. Once I’m on my back, I can have my computer with me again. This way, I can stay connected and communicate while still enjoying the relaxation that massage therapy provides. It’s the best of both worlds!

Having therapists come to my house is a total game-changer. There’s no stress about transportation or the hassle of getting to an appointment. It’s all about convenience and comfort. Back in my dorm days, it was the same deal. The therapists would set up their equipment in my room, turning my small space into a mini spa. x

When I was in college, I didn’t have time for many different types of therapy. I believe that massage therapy is the most important therapy for me. With cerebral palsy, my muscles and brain don’t always sync up, leading to stiffness, pain, and spasms. Massages work wonders in calming both my body and mind. The gentle pressure and soothing strokes help release muscle tension and melt away stress, providing a sense of tranquility that’s hard to achieve otherwise. Keeping my muscles loose and flexible enhances my range of motion and makes moving around much easier. This increased mobility is crucial for maintaining independence. Muscle tightness and spasms can be incredibly painful. Massages help alleviate this pain by boosting blood flow and reducing muscle inflammation, providing much-needed relief. I’ve noticed that I sleep significantly better since starting regular massages. A good night’s sleep does wonders for my energy levels and overall mood, making it easier to tackle daily challenges.

Regular massages help stimulate my digestive system, promoting better digestion and reducing discomfort. This one’s a biggie, especially when you spend a lot of time sitting in a wheelchair like I do. When you’re not up and moving around much, this becomes super important for overall health.

Oh, and a funny side note – I’ve learned that I absolutely cannot have my V8 energy drinks before a massage. Those things make me super jumpy, and trust me, being all jittery during a massage is not the vibe. Picture me trying to relax while feeling like a squirrel on caffeine. Yeah, not exactly ideal for a calming experience! I’m a bit of a caffeine addict, but I don’t like coffee or tea. So, I usually drink either a Coke Zero or a quarter of my V8 energy drinks. I save the rest of the V8 for after the massage. The massage makes me feel good, and then drinking the V8 powers me to do whatever I need to do afterward. It’s the perfect combo!

Getting massages twice a week gives me something to look forward to and adds a nice routine to my week. I always feel lighter – both physically and emotionally – after each session.

If you or someone you know has cerebral palsy and is thinking about trying massage therapy, I highly recommend it. Look for licensed massage therapists who have experience working with people with disabilities. They’ll know how to tailor the sessions to your specific needs and make sure you’re comfortable the whole time.

In the end, it’s all about finding what works best for you and prioritizing self-care. For me, massage therapy has been a fantastic addition to my routine, helping me live my best life despite the challenges of cerebral palsy.