Portland Arthritis Massage Therapist – Massage for Arthritis

Portland Arthritis Massage Therapist Jonathan Prue LMT – Massage for Arthritis at Holistic Portland Massage

Massage for arthritis can be beneficial in relieving pain, assisting with flexibility, and helping you relax.

Arthritis in its differing forms affects millions of people. The Arthritis foundation reports that ” 27 million Americans live with osteoarthritis, and 1.4 million Americans live with rheumatoid arthritis.”  And according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), arthritis is the nation’s most
prevalent cause of disability. Although the chance of getting arthritis increases with age, more than 2/3 of arthritis patients are under the age of 65.


Arthritis is a disease that does not discriminate regarding race or ethnic groups. However, more women have arthritis than men. Arthritis is a general term that refers to over 100 different diseases and conditions.

Here are some of the most common types:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Gout
  • Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Systemic lupus

Regardless of the classification of arthritis, all types of the disease commonly exhibit symptoms such as joint pain, inflammation, stiffness, decreased mobility, fatigue, weight loss and anemia. Arthritis can also affect the performance of the heart, eyes and lungs. Osteoarthritis is the most common form. Cartilage in the joints disintegrates. The synovial joints are broken down. Rheumatoid arthritis is also very common. Tissues and membranes – including cartilage and synovial fluids – lining the joints become inflamed. As a result, the inflamed tissue develops antibodies. Over time, this will destroy the components of the joint.

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are produced within the body. They act like anti-inflammatory drugs and can help to alleviate the  symptoms of arthritis. Engaging in a program of regular massage therapy for arthritis increases the natural production of these chemicals.
Popular anti-inflammatory drugs are available, but sometime present an array of adverse side effects. Massage therapy is a drug-free treatment that may be a good alternative or complementary therapy.

Massage Therapy for Arthritis – How it can Help

All people who suffer from arthritis have one thing in common at least: they hurt. So what are some of the ways a massage for arthritis can help?

The Arthritis Foundation provides this information about managing pain:

Pain Factors
(from the Arthritis Foundation)

What can make your pain feel worse?

  • Increased disease activity

  • Stress

  • Overdoing physical activity

  • Focusing on pain

  • Fatigue

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

What can help block pain signals?

  • Positive attitude and pleasant thoughts

  • Appropriate exercise

  • Relaxation

  • Medications

  • Massage

  • Distraction

  • Topical pain relievers

  • Humor

  • Heat and cold treatments

A full-body massage for arthritis is both relaxing and soothing. Licensed massage therapists (LMTs) use their fingers, hands, forearms and elbows to deliver a series of strokes, rubs, taps, pulls and other manual manipulation techniques. This results and pain reduction, tension release, increased blood flow, increased oxygen and nutrient delivery, a euphoric sense of well-being, increased production of natural healing chemicals and a general increase in the health and happiness.

As with many debilitating diseases, arthritis makes those afflicted hesitant to participate in life’s activities. Non-participation in common activities weakens the muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints further. The pain increases and many times general lethargy sets in. This causes an imbalance in all of the body’s systems. Chemicals get out of whack and sometimes depression sets in. The individual experiences a chronic loss of interest and motivation.

Massage therapy for arthritis encourages the body’s natural defense mechanisms to engage. Chemical imbalances can be lessened or reversed. The healing of sore muscles and joints is accelerated. After a full-body arthritis massage, the individual is left feeling invigorated and more capable. Because they feel better, they are once again able to participate in life. This in turn may help to reverse the effects
of depression that can come from suffering with any chronic illness.

If you suffer from symptoms of arthritis, you have to take control of your own pain management regimen. Taking drugs can mask the pain. However, drug use can have undesired side effects. Massage therapy for arthritis is one complementary therapy that may help you feel better. There are no harmful side effects.

Remember, your health and well being is the top priority.  Always consult with your healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment if you are suffering from frequent stiff and painful joints, or inflammation. Massage has many benefits and can definitely help you feel better but is not a substitute or replacement for medical treatment of arthritis.

Helpful Arthritis Links

Arthritis Foundation

Learn more about Massage for Arthritis and More Arthritis Information at http://www.arthritis.org/

Portland Arthritis Massage Therapist – Jonathan Prue, LMT

Book your massage today.  Portland arthritis massage therapist Jonathan Prue can help you feel better with a massage for arthritis relief.  Book online or call Jonathan if you have any questions about arthritis massage.