Parkinson’s Disease Massage

A Parkinson’s Disease Massage is a specialized manual therapy tailored to reduce rigidity, tremors, pain, and non-motor symptoms in those living with Parkinson’s. The massage uses gentle techniques and slow movements to promote relaxation, improve mobility, and support quality of life as part of a holistic care plan.​

Signs & Symptoms

• Muscle rigidity, stiffness, and resting or postural tremors

• Bradykinesia (slowness of movement) and decreased coordination

• Fatigue, sleep disturbances, and frequent muscle aches

• Anxiety, depression, and mood changes

• Digestive issues like constipation

• Fluctuating symptoms due to medication or daily cycle.​

Contraindications

• Avoid massage during episodes of acute confusion, severe fatigue, or altered consciousness

• Do not treat areas with open wounds, infection, pressure sores, or unhealed surgery sites

• Moist heat is contraindicated for clients with uncontrolled hypertension

• Modify intensity, duration, and positioning if dizziness, orthostatic hypotension, or autonomic symptoms occur​

• Caution if severe osteoporosis or cardiovascular instability is present; seek medical advice first.​

Assessment

• Review motor and non-motor symptoms, medication timing (since symptoms fluctuate with dose cycles)

• Palpate for rigidity, spasticity, trigger points, and muscle contractures, especially in neck, back, shoulders, and limbs

• Assess functional mobility, gait, balance, and ability to get on/off the treatment table

• Check for mood, cognition, and overall sensory feedback—monitor for changes during the session

• Collaborate with care team or caregiver, as needed, for support and safe mobilization.​

Treatment

• Employ slow, deep Swedish massage strokes and PROM (passive range of motion) to relax spastic muscles​

• Use gentle trigger point therapy, skin rolling, and myofascial techniques to lengthen rigid tissues​

• Apply moist heat packs prior to massage (if blood pressure and skin integrity are safe) to enhance relaxation and tissue pliability​

• Joint mobilizations (grade I-II oscillations) for synovial fluid exchange and cartilage health, as tolerated​

• Focus on diaphragmatic and abdominal massage for constipation, and adapt techniques to client’s position (supine, side-lying)

• Always monitor for symptom changes or fatigue, and adjust treatment accordingly.​

Self Care

• Encourage daily gentle stretching and supine trunk rotation movements

• Incorporate abdominal self-massage for constipation, as taught by therapist​

• Maintain regular movement and exercise tailored to ability, with breaks for rest

• Manage stress and fatigue through relaxation, mindfulness, and sleep hygiene

• Communicate with healthcare team for ongoing adaptation of home care strategies

• Adhere to medication timing to optimize physical engagement prior to massage/session