Arthritis is the number one cause of disability, high health care costs, and decreased quality of life in the United States. Over 40 million people in the United States suffer from the effects of arthritis. Over 21 million Americans have osteoarthritis and approximately 2 million Americans have rheumatoid arthritis.
Chiropractic Massage Therapy for Arthritis
Over 2,000 years ago the Classical Greek physician, Hippocrates, wrote about massage therapy for arthritis and other joint conditions. He urged that doctors should be experienced in “Rubbing that can bind a joint that is loose and loosen a joint that is too hard.”
Today clinical science in modern medicine has validated the benefits of chiropractic massage therapy for patients suffering from arthritis. In fact, according to a study presented at the 2007 American Massage Therapy Association National Convention:
“Therapeutic massage treatments, while able to achieve qualitative muscle release in an affected joint region, can also positively affect the physiological systems of a patient with RA and help to alleviate and prolong the deteriorating effects of the disease.”
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases recommends massage therapy performed by a trained professional. This is to help ease pain, increase joint range of motion, and improve the flexibility of muscles and tendons.
Choose an Experienced Chiropractic Massage Therapist
The NIAMSD emphasizes the importance of selecting a chiropractic massage therapist who is familiar with the problems of arthritis for the treatment to be effective:
“In this pain-relief approach, a massage therapist will lightly stroke and/or knead the painful muscles. This may increase blood flow and bring warmth to a stressed area. However, arthritis-stressed joints are sensitive, so the therapist must be familiar with the problems of the disease.”
If you’re seeking massage therapy for arthritis in your hands, knees, shoulder, or back, it is important to find a massage therapist who is also a clinical chiropractor. Chiropractors have extensive knowledge of the musculoskeletal system. They also have experience in therapeutic massage for patients seeking relief from back, neck, or joint pain caused by arthritis.
If you are suffering from arthritis we can help. Our Huntington Beach chiropractor has many years of experience treating patients with arthritis. Call today and schedule an appointment!
