How Massage Can Help Manage Arthritis

People count on massage therapy to relieve many types of discomfort. Whether dealing with sore or tight muscles or general stress and anxiety, massage has become a reliable source of pain relief and stress reduction for many people. But if you live with the pain of arthritis, you might wonder if massage will ease the pain or irritate it.

The good news is that research shows massage can be a safe and effective way to ease the pain that accompanies many types of arthritis. Arthritis is an inflammation of joints, which can cause pain and stiffness. Often, arthritis worsens with age.

There are multiple ways that massage can benefit individuals with stiff, painful joints from arthritis.

Improve circulation

Massage increases blood flow to an area. This improved circulation brings oxygen to the area and speeds healing, plus helps muscles around the area relax and loosen. The improved circulation and loose muscles allow for greater range of movement for the joint.

Reduce inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of arthritis. Painful, inflamed joints is the very definition of arthritis. Massage has been shown to increase circulation and support lymphatic drainage, which helps reduce inflammation, including the inflammation caused by arthritis. Regular massage can help manage inflammation over time and have a positive effect on people with arthritis.

Relieve pain

The specific ways in which massage helps relieve pain are not fully understood, but research and feedback from clients support the fact that many people experience reduced pain after a massage. Reduced inflammation and improved flexibility from loosened muscles may be contributing factors, in addition to a reduction in cortisol, the stress hormone. Massage also interacts with the nerves and pain receptors which can change the perception of pain in the body.

Massage can be extremely beneficial in helping manage the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, but there may also be times that joints are extra sensitive to touch. As always, communication is key during your massage. Talk to your massage therapist and they can adjust your massage to accommodate or avoid areas that are extra sensitive on a particular day. During your massage, communicate about the level of pressure that feels best. Moderate pressure helps ease pain in the long run, but during a flare of arthritis, using lighter pressure or skipping a specific area may be the best option.

If you are looking to ease discomfort from arthritis and loosen your joints, consider booking a massage today.