Posted on 3rd Jan 2012 @ 12:16 PM

Garry Lavis, National President of Australian Association of Massage Therapists

Did you know that massage therapy can help alleviate some of the symptoms and reduce pain of arthritis?

The benefits of massage vary on an individual level, depending on person’s condition. Generally speaking, research has shown that massage therapy can help reduce swelling, improving circulation, reduce muscle tension, alleviate pain, and improve flexibility.

Is massage suitable for your?

To ensure remedial massage therapy is an appropriate treatment option for you, talk to your GP and find your how massage can complement your arthritis management plan.

Remedial massage therapy treatment goals for people with arthritis generally focus on decreasing pressure or tension on joints, decreasing pain, increasing range of motion, increasing circulation and promoting relaxation.

What type of massage is not suitable for people with arthritis?

Remedial massage therapy may not be appropriate when joins are inflamed, check your GP or rheumatologist. Qualified and accredited massage therapists are trained to identify these conditions and adapt their treatment techniques based on an individual’s needs.

What to tell your massage therapist prior to treatment?

It is important that your therapist is aware of your diagnosed condition, as there are many forms of arthritis, each with its own particular needs for appropriate treatment. You’ll need to advise them of your medical and paramedical treatments, general health status and your use medications, vitamins and supplements. If you have allergies, also mention these. In follow-up consultation, be sure to update your therapist about the effects of the previous treatment and of any changes to the condition. And, if you experience any discomfort during tour treatment, let your massage therapist know.

Choosing a qualified massage therapist

Massage therapist have different levels of training depending on the type of massage they practice. To be assured that your therapist has formal, accredited qualifications and adheres to a code of ethics, check that they are a member of a recognised professional association. When choosing a massage therapist, check that they are also experienced with working with arthritis.

Four facts about massage therapy for people with arthritis:

•          Remedial massage can help alleviate pain, improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension
•          It is common for hand and knee areas to benefit from massage
•          Massage is not appropriate when joint are inflamed
•          Massage therapists can work with your GP to complement your treatment plan.