Posted on January 11, 2008 in Latest News
Arthritis is a very common chronic condition. Massage therapy can help ease the symptoms and improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis. Proponents claim that massage therapy, done correctly, can help improve joint movement, relax tense muscles, and stimulate the flow of blood and nutrients to the skin and underlying tissues. What’s more, it just feels good, and the relaxation it brings can help break the cycle of pain and stress that often goes along with arthritis.
Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Two of the most common conditions are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Technically speaking, massage involves the manipulation of soft tissues with the hands through rubbing, stroking, pressure, and so on. Trained practitioners use massage therapy techniques to improve the well-being of clients.
Massage therapy can take a wide variety of forms. These are some of the most common ones:
- Swedish massage This is what most people think of when they hear the word “massage.” It’s a full-body treatment that combines stroking, kneading, and friction on the top layer of muscles with gentle movement of the joints.
- Deep tissue massage This technique uses slow strokes and strong pressure on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. The goal is to release tension there. However, the deep pressure can cause some soreness, so it’s not for everyone.
- Myofascial release This approach uses long, stretching strokes to release tension in the fascia, the connective tissue around the muscles.
- Trigger point therapy This method uses concentrated finger pressure on knots of tension or pain that can trigger pain elsewhere in the body.
- Acupressure and shiatsu These Asian techniques use finger pressure on specific points on the body—the same points that are stimulated in acupuncture. The pressure is supposed to unblock the flow of life energy, called qi (”chee”).
Reflexology This method involves rubbing certain points on the feet, hands, or ears that are believed to correspond to various parts of the body.
Here are some simple techniques to try:
- Kneading -Grasp the muscle between your palm (or thumb) and fingers. Then lift slightly and squeeze, as if you were kneading dough. Don’t just pinch the skin. Work into the muscle itself with a slow, regular squeeze-and-release motion. Be careful not to overdo it. Fifteen to 20 seconds on the same spot is enough.
- Stroking -Cup your hand over the muscle you want to massage. Then firmly glide your hand over the length of the muscle in a slow, repeated movement. A little oil or lotion may help. Try using different amounts of pressure until you find out what works best for you.
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