AMTA’s office will be closed December 24-25 and January 1, and business hours on December 23, 26 and 27 will be 9 am-5 pm CT. To contact HPSO, call 1-888-253-1474. Click here for more information on the best times to reach us.
Arthritis and Massage
Research shows that massage therapy may be the ideal nonpharmacological treatment for arthritis.
Arthritis Relief with Massage Therapy
Arthritis is one of the most common conditions in America, as well as one of the most painful. With symptoms that range from pain and swelling to reduced range of motion and stiffness, arthritis can seriously inhibit a person's ability to maintain a normal or active lifestyle.
Pain medications are often prescribed or purchased over-the-counter but can have some side effects, like stomach upset, that can further impact daily living. New research, however, is showing that massage therapy may be the ideal nonpharmacological substitute.
Massage Therapy Benefits for Arthritis:
- Reduce chronic pain and stiffness
- Improve joint mobility and function
- Promote more restful sleep
- Enhance quality-of-life
- Promote relaxation
Related Articles
Massage Therapy and Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Massage therapy has shown promise in managing pain for chronic conditions like arthritis.
Treatment Planning for Rheumatoid Arthritis
A brief refresher on rheumatoid arthritis, including some of the economic and personal costs of the disease and how massage therapists can create safe and effective session plans.
Massage and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Delve into research that indicates how massage therapy can help manage rheumatoid arthritis.
Related Online Continuing Education Courses
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Techniques for Massage Therapists
$60 members / $100 non-members 4 CE credits
Take an in-depth look at how to integrate session planning for rheumatoid arthritis into your massage therapy practice. Explore the causes, symptoms, risk factors, as well as how to plan safe and effective massage sessions for clients with this condition.
Pathology and Massage Therapy
$30 members / $50 non-members 2 CE credits
This course gives massage therapists a comprehensive review of pathology, infection control measures and common chronic conditions including diabetes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Massage Therapy for Osteoarthritis
$30 members / $50 non-members 2 CE credits
Assist clients dealing with the most common form of arthritis by learning the symptoms, those most at risk and how massage therapy can help. Explore techniques to help manage the pain of osteoarthritis and increase flexibility. Understand the contraindications for massage and this condition.
Related Resources
Massage and Pain Relief
Learn how massage therapy can help your clients with pain relief and explore resources for your practice.
Massage and Mental Health
Discover how massage therapy can help your clients' mental health and explore resources to expand your skillset.
Massage for Headaches
Find out how massage therapy can benefit your clients looking for relief from headaches.