Massage – an auxiliary measure for various diseases, including those with problems with the thyroid gland. Thyroid massage is useful or harmful, endocrinologists and representatives of alternative medicine argue. But they are unanimous in the opinion that the effect on the biologically active points associated with the thyroid gland will help to improve the condition in hypothyroidism and autoimmune thyroiditis .
When and to whom is thyroid massage prescribed?
It is necessary to consult with an experienced endocrinologist about whether it is possible to do massage for thyroid diseases. First, it is important to undergo a complete examination of the problem organ: donate blood for hormones, on an ultrasound scan to find out if there are nodes in the gland , how dangerous they are. If necessary, take a biopsy.
Only if the results of the examination showed that the seal in the gland is not of an oncological nature, it is possible to talk about massage.
Together with the patient, the endocrinologist decides on the use of massage in combination with physiotherapy exercises and medications.
Massage improves blood circulation in the thyroid gland, normalizes hormonal balance. A mild effect helps to get rid of organ inflammation, improve lymph flow after an operation to remove part or all of the thyroid gland.
The list of indications for massage includes the following conditions:
- insufficient activity of the parathyroid glands;
- hypothyroidism;
- hyperplasia of the gland without dysfunction ( non-progressive ).
Contraindications
Classic massage techniques for the neck, upper back, shoulders and arms are prohibited for all thyroid diseases. It can do more harm than good. Massage is strictly contraindicated for:
- oncological process in the gland;
- progressive goiter;
- hyperthyroidism.
Massage methods
The main type of massage that is used for diseases of the thyroid gland is acupressure. The technique involves the impact on biologically active zones located in the area of the feet, head, trunk. Pressure stimulates blood flow to the organ, improves the production of hormones.
The thyroid gland benefits from massaging the area located above and around the 7th cervical vertebra (at shoulder level). In people with reduced thyroid function, a hillock is formed (otherwise it is called a withers, a widow’s hump). Rubbing, kneading this area of the body stimulates the production of thyroid hormones, the growth of nodes stops.
Massage of the thyroid gland according to Ivanov’s method is aimed at improving blood circulation and lymph drainage in the neck and upper body. During the procedure, gently knead the back of the head, the back and side of the neck, the area around the ears.
Ivanov’s massage is beneficial for inflammation and during rehabilitation after surgery.
The movements according to the Ivanovo technique should be very accurate, without strong pressure. Massage begins with the sternocleidomastoid muscle (it runs from the lower edge of the ear to the base of the shoulder). With one hand, the muscle is grasped from behind, with the other from the side of the thyroid gland. Gently pushing, the back is rolled onto the front. Movements are made from top to bottom.
A thumb is placed on the base of the clavicle (on the side of the thyroid gland), and the middle and index fingers are placed on the other side so that the problem organ is in the center. Massage the gland with light circular movements.
Why is the wrong effect on the thyroid gland dangerous?
An active effect on tissues causes an intense blood flow to the diseased organ. A large portion of hormones are released in a patient with hyperthyroidism, and with hypothyroidism, their concentration may decrease – instead of improving the person’s condition, on the contrary, it will worsen. If there is a malignant node, then increased blood flow in the gland provokes the growth of a cancerous tumor.
Do not massage directly on the thyroid gland. If necessary, gentle kneading of the neck tissues solely as directed by a doctor can only be performed by a specialist.
Acupressure massage for thyroid diseases
With dysfunction of the endocrine organ, doctors recommend a point effect on biologically active zones located on the feet, head, trunk. Pressing is performed with a fingertip with a gradual increase in pressure (5-10 sec.), Repeat up to 10 times. After a course (15-20 sessions) of acupressure, the general condition is normalized, mood swings disappear, small nodules dissolve, metabolic processes are harmonized.
Those who use this method of thyroid health for the first time should contact an experienced massage therapist. Having learned from a professional, you can do a wellness procedure yourself.
The main area of influence is the foot. The base of the thumb and the central part of the fornix are the projection sites of the thyroid gland. They are massaged three times a day for 5 minutes.
Reflexologists advise to make a hot foot bath before the procedure.
Biologically active points are also located at the junction of the clavicle and neck on both sides of the thyroid gland, in the center of the forehead, chin, on the outer edge of the right and left wings of the gland (along the central horizontal), and also 2.5 cm up from the navel. The compression effect on them also causes blood flow to the affected organ, activates the synthesis of hormones.
What other massage is useful
With diseases of the thyroid gland, if there are no contraindications, be sure to massage the withers – the neck in the area of the 7th cervical vertebra. Apply:
- rubbing (3-4 minutes, until the skin turns pink);
- kneading (8-10 minutes);
- shaking (vibration).
The transition from one technique to another is accompanied by stroking. The duration of the massage of the widow’s hump is 12-15 minutes.
The withers are sometimes so voluminous and rigid that it is difficult to knead it qualitatively and achieve the desired result – activation of the thyroid gland. In such a situation, after 3-4 sessions, the masseur can use the means at hand. For example, with the help of medical cups (vacuum massage), it is possible to achieve rapid resorption of fat deposits on the withers, active blood flow to the occipital zone. This effect is well reflected in the state of the thyroid gland.
Exercise therapy as an alternative to massage
A simple set of exercises to normalize the thyroid gland can become a replacement or addition to massage:
- Sitting on a chair, put your hands on your hips. The back and elbows are straightened so that you feel that the collar zone is tense. The body is fixed in this position for 8-10 seconds, after which you can relax. Repeat up to 10 times.
- Standing, legs are spread shoulder-width apart, straight arms are pulled as wide as possible to the sides, the stomach is pulled in. I describe the circles with my hands for 10 seconds, then lower it. After a 5-second pause, repeat again. You need to do up to 10 approaches.
- The head is tilted to the sides, from the chin to the back, then rotations for 2 minutes. After the withers area is massaged with an ice cube for 30 seconds, the skin is wiped dry. Exercise with ice rubbing is performed twice a day for 1 month.
- The neck and chin are extended as high as possible. Hold for 8-10 seconds, relax, after 5 seconds. exercise is repeated. Do 15 approaches three times a day.
The maximum health-improving effect for the thyroid gland can be achieved by combining massage with physical therapy and drug therapy recommended by an endocrinologist.