LONG COVID (PASC), ME/CFS, and other complex chronic conditions

Gentle, restorative massage therapy can provide temporary relief from some symptoms of Long COVID (post infection sequelae of SARS-CoV-2), myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), and other post-infection and complex chronic conditions such as lupus, fibromyalgia, mast cell dysfunction, endometriosis and multiple sclerosis (MS).

It is important to prioritize REST and PACING (click here for guide) in managing these conditions, and massage therapy may not be the right fit for every client, particularly those experiencing post-exertional symptom exacerbation (PESE)/post-exertional malaise (PEM), allodynia/hyperalgesia (abnormal pain in response to touch stimuli), and other sensory pain (such as hyperacusis or photosensitivity). Intake happens in advance by phone or email, and may be broken up into shorter pieces to accommodate fatigue.

Comfort touch with supportive bolstering, craniosacral therapy (which requires no disrobing), and lymphatic techniques:

• facilitate proper neurolymphatic drainage
• improve sleep, mood, and energy levels
• soothe the nervous system while safely working with tissues that have vascular, muscle fiber, and nerve fiber alterations
• hydrate dry and problem skin
• optimize mobility and reduce soft tissue pain
• reduce pain and tension in the muscles involved in breathing

Home care suggestions are available to improve respiratory capacity and comfort, manage rest and pacing, and connect with support groups.

You can request an appointment by phone/text at (503)558-6160 or by email at elizabeth.ryan.LMT@gmail.com.

Continuing Education (CE) for therapists