The below excerpt was taken from an Article in "Massage Today" written by Ruth Werner, LMT on 9/2006
MASSAGE in reference to Psoriasis:
In the olden days (as in, the days of Hippocrates), doctors were instructed to rub olive oil into psoriasis lesions. We know now that when psoriasis is acute, these are areas where cells already are hyperactive. Increasing energy or circulation to these sites might not be the best plan. However, it's important to point out that psoriasis is not contagious! Clients with psoriasis can benefit from bodywork that includes the whole body, as long as the stimulus doesn't increase itching or irritation. Herbal or aromatherapeutic agents could be useful in this context as well. If you have found an application you have seen to improve psoriasis symptoms, please share it with me and other Massage Today readers.
Personally, i never worked on anyone with this condition in my 13 years of practicing Massage. I believe many afflicted with this condition are too embarrassed to come and get a massage. Please do not be embarrassed. Just let your therapist know if it has helped your condition or made it worse? I also believe that flare ups of Psoriasis are stress related.. My Own personal opinion... So Massage would be a good thing.
Hermene Anderson, LMT LA #5072
