Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Massage and Arthritis

According to the Arthritis Foundation, massage can be helpful in arthritis patients in two ways. First, by reducing muscle pain that is caused by spasms. Secondly, massage increases your body’s ability to produce the endorphins that reduce pain.

There are really two issues with massage therapy as it relates to arthritis. The first is what it accomplishes. That is, that massage helps the arthritis sufferer by loosening up his or her joints. Primarily, massage helps to loosen and release the adhesions in the muscles and ligaments that slow or hinder motion. And, when gentle joint stretching is done it can actually stimulate the production of synovial fluid (which acts as a cushion around the joints). This reduces inflammation and pain.

Just like all therapies, massage will require more than one appointment to make it most effective. Sure, the first time you go in you will gain some relief. But, to get the most out of it you really need to do massage therapy on a regular basis and it is best to use a therapist with experience.

The best schedule seems to be seeing a therapist once a week for about a month and thereafter, once or twice a month should be sufficient, according to your needs.

To learn more about massage therapy, or to schedule your appointment visit:
www.RelaxYouDeserveIt.com