Living with arthritis can be challenging, with symptoms like joint pain, stiffness, and limited mobility affecting daily life. Many people look for ways to manage these symptoms beyond medication, and arthritis massage therapy has become a popular option. National survey data show that 10.9 percent of U.S. adults used massage therapy in 2022, more than double the percentage who used it in 2002 (4.8 percent). But is massage therapy good for arthritis? In this article, we’ll dive into how massage therapy can benefit those with arthritis, including pain relief, improved mobility, and enhanced overall well-being.
How Massage for Arthritis Works
Massage therapy for arthritis primarily focuses on relieving muscle tension and improving blood circulation around the joints. Through various techniques, massage helps reduce inflammation and increase joint flexibility. By working on specific muscle groups around the affected joints, therapists can help alleviate stiffness, reduce pain, and make it easier for people with arthritis to move comfortably.
Massage also influences the body’s production of certain chemicals. For example, it can increase the levels of serotonin and dopamine, which are chemicals associated with feelings of happiness and well-being. This chemical boost may alleviate some of the emotional burdens that accompany chronic pain.
Massage Therapy Benefits for Arthritis
Massage therapy offers a range of benefits that can improve the quality of life for people with arthritis. About 10% of the adult population in the United States suffers from osteoarthritis (OA), affecting their quality of life through pain, functional limitations, and mood disturbances. Let’s explore these key benefits:
- Reduce Chronic Pain and Stiffness: One of the primary reasons people turn to massage therapy is its ability to reduce chronic pain. For people with arthritis, pain can feel unrelenting, and massage works by relaxing tense muscles around painful joints. Many individuals also find relief for associated conditions, like hip pain relief, as massage addresses multiple joint and muscle groups. Studies, including one from the Mayo Clinic, show that individuals with rheumatoid arthritis who received regular massages experienced a 40% reduction in joint pain.
- Improve Joint Mobility and Function: Massage helps improve blood flow to the joints, enhancing flexibility and reducing stiffness. Increased circulation can also help to speed up recovery after periods of immobility, such as in the morning or after sitting for long periods. In the Mayo Clinic study, those who received massages saw a 30% improvement in joint mobility, making it easier to perform daily activities.
- Promote More Restful Sleep: Chronic pain can interfere with sleep quality, making it difficult to achieve restful, uninterrupted sleep. Massage can help by promoting relaxation and reducing pain, leading to better sleep. This is particularly beneficial for people with arthritis, as getting a good night’s sleep is essential for managing symptoms and improving overall health.
- Enhance Quality of Life: Reducing pain, increasing mobility, and improving sleep can all contribute to a better quality of life for those with arthritis. With reduced discomfort and more freedom of movement, people can often engage in activities they enjoy, helping to boost their mood and reduce the feelings of isolation that can come with chronic pain.
- Promote Relaxation: Living with a chronic condition can be stressful, and stress often exacerbates symptoms. Massage therapy is known for promoting relaxation, which can help alleviate some of the mental and emotional stress associated with arthritis. By reducing stress, massage can help break the cycle of pain and tension that many people with arthritis experience.
Types of Massage for Arthritis
Different types of massage are available for arthritis, each offering unique benefits. Here’s a look at some of the most commonly recommended massage techniques for arthritis relief.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is gentle and involves long, gliding strokes and kneading. It is ideal for arthritis patients who are sensitive to pressure but want to enjoy the benefits of improved circulation and reduced muscle tension.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage involves more intense pressure to reach deeper layers of muscles. It can benefit arthritis patients who experience severe stiffness and pain, as it can target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue around the joints.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage uses heated stones placed on specific body areas to promote relaxation and ease muscle tension. The warmth can help soothe joints and improve blood flow, which may temporarily relieve arthritis pain.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial release relieves tension in the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles. By targeting these tissues, myofascial release can help reduce stiffness and improve range of motion, making it a good option for people with arthritis.
Rolfing
Rolfing is a form of deep tissue massage that focuses on realigning the body and improving posture. By promoting better body alignment, this technique may help reduce stress on the joints for people with arthritis.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a Japanese technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body. This type of massage may be helpful for people with arthritis as it targets acupressure points corresponding to areas of pain or stiffness, offering relief without intense pressure.
Trigger Point Massage
Trigger point massage targets specific areas in muscles known as “trigger points,” which can cause referred pain in other areas. This can benefit people with arthritis who experience muscle pain around affected joints.
Self-Massage
While professional massage is ideal, self-massage techniques can also be helpful for those with arthritis. Learning gentle self-massage methods can be a practical way to manage pain between professional sessions.
So, is Massage Good for Arthritis?
The evidence suggests that massage therapy can be an effective way to manage arthritis symptoms. Here’s a closer look at how massage can improve specific symptoms associated with arthritis.
Reduced Pain and Improved Mobility
Massage therapy not only reduces pain directly by relieving muscle tension but also indirectly improves joint mobility by increasing blood flow and reducing stiffness. For individuals with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, regular massages can provide significant relief from chronic pain and allow for a greater range of motion.
Massage for Hand Arthritis: Targeted Relief for Dexterity Challenges
Arthritis in the hands can severely limit dexterity and make simple tasks difficult. Specific massage techniques for the hands can reduce pain and improve flexibility, enhancing hand function and making daily activities more manageable.
How to Maximize the Benefits of Massage
To get the most out of massage therapy for arthritis, it’s important to follow a few guidelines:
- Choose the Right Therapist: Ensure your massage therapist has experience working with arthritis patients, as they’ll understand which techniques are most beneficial. Working with specialists, like those trained in Orthopedic Physical Therapy, can provide even more targeted support.
- Combine with Other Treatments: Massage can complement physical therapy or gentle exercise to provide comprehensive symptom relief.
- Stay Consistent: Regular sessions, rather than sporadic massages, offer better chronic pain and stiffness results.
Come See Progressive Mobility for Your Arthritis Needs
If you’re dealing with arthritis, finding the proper support can make all the difference. At Progressive Mobility Physio & Performance, our team understands the unique needs of arthritis patients and offers massage therapy tailored to help manage pain, improve mobility, and boost your quality of life. If you’re dealing with arthritis, finding the proper support can make all the difference.
Conclusion
Massage therapy offers a natural, noninvasive way to manage arthritis symptoms. For those wondering, does massage therapy help arthritis? The answer lies in its potential to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and promote relaxation. Massage can play a valuable role in an arthritis treatment plan. While it’s not a cure, massage therapy can help individuals manage their symptoms and lead a more comfortable life.
FAQs
Does massage therapy work for all types of arthritis?
Yes, massage therapy can benefit most types of arthritis, though results may vary based on individual conditions and needs. Be sure to consult with your therapist about any specific arthritis symptoms you have.
How often should I get a massage for arthritis pain?
The frequency of massage sessions depends on your symptoms and pain levels. Many people find weekly or bi-weekly sessions beneficial, while others may only need monthly treatments.
Are there any risks of massage therapy for arthritis sufferers?
While massage therapy is generally safe, it’s essential to inform your therapist of your arthritis and any susceptible areas. People with severe inflammation or joint instability may need to avoid specific massage techniques.
