According to the Center of Disease Control, 54 million people in the United States live with arthritis. That is 23% of adults. Arthritis encompasses over 100 diseases, including the most common disease related to arthritis, osteoarthritis. It frequently occurs along with other diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. The most common symptoms of arthritis are pain and swelling in and around the joints.
Many people with arthritis get regular massages for their joints and muscles. Results from studies at the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine have shown that getting regular massage for arthritis symptoms can improve pain, range of motion, strength and the functionality of joints. Massage has been proven to help those living with osteoarthritis of the knee, hand and wrist arthritis, and many more arthritis conditions. However, make sure you discuss the possibility of massage for arthritis with your doctor first, as it can be dangerous for some people with damaged joints, high blood pressure, and brittle bones.
Author
Sandy Saldano, Lic. Massage Therapist
Owner of Therapeutic Kneads, Ltd.
847-266- 0131