Can Massage Therapy Alleviate Arthritis Pain?

The pain of arthritis can leave even the toughest individual writhing in pain. When it gets bad, people often turn to medication to dull the ache. But recent findings suggest that it may be worth looking into massage therapy instead.

The great thing about getting a massage is that the effects are immediate as well as long-lasting. A proper massage can help reduce inflammation, lessen stiffness, increase mobility, and ease the pain. Even a simple fifteen-minute hand massage at home has been shown to improve grip strength and reduce muscle tightness.

What Kinds of Massages Can Help with Arthritis?

When you visit a massage clinic, consult with a professional and explain your specific pain. At Total Care Health, all of our RMT’s (registered massage therapists) take the time to understand our client’s condition so we can decide on the best course of action.

For the most part, people with arthritis commonly receive these types of massages:

Deep Tissue Massage

A deep tissue massage works on isolating and massaging the muscles and tissues near the affected joint. This type of massage is suggested for those with severe muscle aches. While it is great for loosening muscles, it can also lead to muscle soreness in the following days.

Trigger Point Release

A trigger point release is another commonly used massage method for patients with arthritis. This form of massage is done by applying pressure to specific trigger points along the body. The idea here is to locate knots and muscle tension in key points of the body and then loosen them. The benefits of this form of massage include increased mobility and reduced pain.

Myofascial Release

The myofascial release can also be applied to those with arthritis. In this form of massage, the RMT will apply pressure to the body in specific muscle locations (that are unique to each patient) in an attempt to loosen connective tissues that have tightened up and hindered movement.

Self-Massage

While we always recommend going to a professional, there are benefits to incorporating a self-massage routine on top of professional work. An RMT will be able to show you have to loosen pressure points and locate troublesome knots.

A good self-massage is an efficient way to improve range of motion and to keep your muscles loose. Use oil or lotion if needed and apply pressure gently to the specified area. When done a few times a week it can lead to long-lasting release from arthritis.

Dealing with arthritis is an ongoing battle. If you are looking for an alternative form of treatment to medication, massage therapy is just what you need. Without the help of a proper massage, your muscles will keep getting tighter!

Total Care Health, based in Surrey, BC, offers science-based therapy in a compassionate environment. They have chiropractors, kinesiologists, physiotherapists, and massage therapists available to help you.

If you have any questions about this article, or you would like to book an appointment with one of our professionals, please call us at (604) 854-3090.

Sources:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28177937/

https://www.bodyworkmovementtherapies.com/article/S1360-8592(06)00108-2/abstract