Osteoporosis Massage

An Osteoporosis Massage is a gentle, cautious therapy designed to relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and enhance circulation for those living with osteoporosis. The therapist avoids deep pressure on fragile bones and customizes techniques to protect skeletal integrity while supporting comfort.​

Signs & Symptoms

• Generalized bone pain or tenderness

• Muscle stiffness, weakness, and discomfort due to compensation for fragile bones

• Reduced mobility, balance issues, and increased risk of falls

• Sometimes, pain following minor fractures or microfractures

• Kyphosis (rounded back) or height loss in advanced stages.​

Contraindications

• Avoid deep tissue massage, vigorous compression, or joint mobilization near osteoporotic regions (especially spine, hips, wrists)​

• Do not treat over fresh fractures, open wounds, active infections, or post-surgical sites unless cleared by a physician​

• Careful with passive stretching—no forceful movements or pressure on susceptible bones

• Modify techniques if the client is on anticoagulants, corticosteroids, or has fragile skin.​

Assessment

• Review diagnosis, stage of osteoporosis, history of fractures, and current pain or activity limitations

• Palpate gently for muscle tension, guarding, and pain in regions with highest bone loss prevalence

• Assess mobility, balance, posture (kyphosis, height loss), and any current orthopedic concerns

• Collaborate with physician or healthcare team regarding readiness and scope of massage​

Treatment

• Gentle Swedish massage: light effleurage, mild kneading, and vibration, with special care to avoid high-risk bony areas​

• Myofascial release, reflexology, lymphatic drainage, and craniosacral therapy can be appropriate adjuncts​

• Support positioning: chair, bolstering, or side-lying as needed for spinal or hip protection​

• Exclude techniques such as deep kneading, muscle stripping, friction, joint mobilization, or forceful stretching​

• Focus on enhancing relaxation, improving blood flow, and relieving muscular compensation for bone fragility​

Self Care

• Gentle range-of-motion and stretching daily—no forced or ballistic movements​

• Maintain regular, safe physical activity (walking, water exercise) for bone health

• Use of warm compresses, gentle self-massage, or Epsom salt soaks to ease pain and stiffness​

• Ensure safe home environment to reduce falls (appropriate footwear, removing trip hazards)

• Work with healthcare provider for tailored nutrition, supplements (calcium, vitamin D), and medication

• Communicate promptly with therapist or medical team regarding changes in pain, mobility, or new injuries