Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune condition that causes communication between the muscles and nerves to break down. It causes muscles to feel weak and fatigued.Other symptoms include double vision, drooping eyelids, and issues with speaking, breathing, chewing, and swallowing.
There is no cure for myasthenia gravis, but it can be managed with the right treatment. Massage is often recommended. This article will discuss the condition and how massage can help.
What Causes Myasthenia Gravis?
Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the body that facilitate communication between the nerves and the muscles. Myasthenia gravis causes the immune system to make antibodies that block receptor sites where muscles receive nerve communication. The muscles receive fewer nerve
signals causing weakness.
Antibodies can also block proteins like tyrosine kinase which helps form the nerve-muscle junction and protein 4 which carries cholesterol through your bloodstream. The blockage of these proteins can also cause the condition.
Myasthenia gravis can also be caused by thymus gland issues. Sometimes it is hereditary.
What are the Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis?
Myasthenia gravis symptoms wax and wane. They tend to worsen when an affected muscle is used. But generally, they progress in time. They
usually reach their peak a few years into the condition.
Symptoms include:
- Weakness in the Neck Muscles and Limbs: The condition can cause neck pain and weakness in the muscle and limbs that make it difficult to walk and even lift your head.
- Face and Throat Muscle Issues: 15% of people who get myasthenia gravis will first experience symptoms in their face and throat muscles causing difficulty speaking, swallowing, and chewing issues, and changes in facial expressions.
- Eye Muscles: 50% of people with myasthenia gravis will first experience symptoms in their eyes including a drooping of one or both eyelids and/or double vision.
How Does Massage Help Myasthenia Gravis?
- Reduces Pain: Massage activates the body’s pain relief system. It is especially beneficial in reducing pain in muscles. It is recommended in the treatment of several neuromuscular diseases including myasthenia gravis.
- Reduces Stress: There is a direct relationship between myasthenia gravis and stress. A Canadian study found that people who had more flare-ups scored higher for stress and depression rates. Massage eases strained muscles, lowers cortisol, and releases serotonin so you don’t feel stressed out.
- Soothes Tired Muscles: You can reduce myasthenia gravis flare-ups by resting tired muscles and not overexerting yourself. Massage puts your muscles in a state of relaxation, so you are not as likely to experience symptoms.
Massage Revolution is a Recommended Choice for Massage in Manhattan Beach
If you are considering massage as a treatment for myasthenia gravis or any other type of neuromuscular condition, Massage Revolution is a recommended choice. Our technicians are skilled in dealing with a wide variety of conditions. Contact us to discover how our massage in
Los Angeles services can improve your quality of life.
Massage Revolution’s Back & Neck Relief Center located in Manhattan Beach is the biggest trigger point therapy clinic in Los Angeles and the world.
Member savings plans are available. PPO insurance is also accepted.
