For self care of stroke survivor - is it ok to get massages? cupping, acupuncture, electrolysis, remedial..

Hello Jouna,

Thank you for reaching out on Ask A Health Professional via EnableMe.

It is great that you are seeking out alternative therapies to aid in your recovery and self-care after your stroke.  

Every stroke is different and therefore it is important to consider when seeking out therapies

such as massage, acupuncture or cupping that they are safe, appropriate and considerate of

your own individual impacts following your stroke.

Due to limited research being conducted on many alternative therapies, there is no evidence

strongly for or against them within our Living Clinical Guidelines for Stroke Management.

Acupuncture was, however, mentioned and is not routinely recommended to improve activities

of daily living. While some stroke survivors may want to purchase acupuncture, the evidence

suggests there is unlikely to be consistent benefits. However, there do not appear to be any

harms, risks or safety concerns if stroke survivors choose to pursue this treatment independently. 

Our guidelines also state that stroke survivors with confirmed difficulties in personal or

extended activities of daily living should have specific therapy from a trained clinician (e.g.

task-specific practice and training in the use of appropriate aids) to address these issues. We

would therefore recommend having a discussion with your GP, doctor or treating allied

health professional to establish what therapies will be safe and appropriate following your

stroke.

Stroke and its impacts are incredibly individual and therefore we recognise that seeking

alternative therapies also potentially be beneficial. We also recommended disclosing your

condition/medical history when seeking professional consultation to ensure that they are being

conducted safely and considerately.

I hope this was of some help to you.

If you would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact StrokeLine on Ph 1800 787 653 or email strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au. We are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEST. 

Kind regards, 

StrokeLine