Osteoarthritis

What Is Osteoarthritis, And How Might Massage Therapy Help?

It’s a degenerative joint disease causing symptomatic joint pain and stiffness. Massage therapy improves the circulation in the areas affected, which relieves, to some extent, stiffness at the joints and thus mitigates some of the pain. Gentle manipulation of muscles and joints during a massage will improve flexibility. This will offload pressure from joints and offer some relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

What Types Of Massage Will Be Useful For Osteoarthritis?

In the case of osteoarthritis, mainly soft forms of massage are indicated and advisable to be applied to clients, such as Swedish or soft tissue manipulation. The techniques that relieve tension in the muscles that cover the joints concerned themselves, thereby enhancing circulation and mobility without applying pressures likely to cause discomfort. Techniques like myofascial release may also be useful by massaging the muscle’s connective tissue, therefore reducing pain.

How Often Should One With Osteoarthritis Go For Massage Therapy?

Massages may be taken at different intervals depending on one’s level of pain, mobility problems, or alimony. Generally, starting weekly may benefit you in order to recognize how your body responds to the treatment. When the symptoms get better, then the frequency changes. You will know what to do if you are working with a therapist to decide upon a schedule that best fits your health goals.

Will Massage Therapy Be Enough To Replace Other Treatments For Osteoarthritis?

While massage therapy will significantly reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis and improve the quality of life, massage cannot be a stand-alone process to replace medical treatments ordered by a healthcare professional. Massage needs to be used as a complementing procedure along with the existing treatments to better manage the symptoms.

Are There Risks Associated With Massage Therapy For Osteoarthritis?

Massage therapy is safe for patients with osteoarthritis, except that it remains imperative to inform the massage therapist of any diagnosis. Particular adjustments will have to be taken to those areas of the body affected by severe damage in the joints. Keeping massage techniques light may also help avoid those that might put more stress on the joints. It is as important as with any new treatment initiated for osteoarthritis: consult your healthcare provider first.

Knowing these specific points about massage for osteoarthritis will help you decide if it may be a therapy that will work for you. If you’d like to explore just how massage can help bring you relief, call our clinic today for your consultation.