Some people consider massages to be an indulgent part of a self-care routine that can be great for relaxing. However, if you’re dealing with aching joints, the right massages can help to alleviate your discomfort. People with rheumatoid arthritis, in particular, can gain quite a few benefits from getting a regular massage.
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How Massages Help With Your Rheumatoid Arthritis
According to the research that has been done, massages can help to improve blood circulation, ease muscle tension, increase your overall relaxation, and boost your body’s anti-inflammatory response.
As a result, people with rheumatoid arthritis may experience less pain, improved flexibility, and a greater range of motion.
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While the studies have only been done on the Swedish and myofascial massages, other types of therapy can also be beneficial. It’s up to you to find which type of therapy works for you.
Quiz: Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis
The Four Massages You Should Try
As you might expect, not all massages are equal. To get the benefits you need, there are four types of massage therapy that health experts usually recommend.
1. Myofascial Release – In this form of hands-on massage, the therapist will apply focused pressure on select areas of the body for over three minutes at a time. It’s been shown that this kind of concentrated effort often corrects structural changes in underlying tissue that have contributed to your pain. This type of massage may also help to stimulate blood flow and the body’s anti-inflammatory response, which can be great for those with rheumatoid arthritis.
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2. Swedish Massage – This type of massage is typically the most common and is known to include long strokes that vary pressure throughout the session. A Swedish massage is great for easing tension in your muscles so it works well for people who are dealing with the stiffness caused by rheumatoid arthritis. The good thing about this type of massage is that you can ask the therapist to modify the pressure that’s used on you.
3. Hot Stone Massage – With this kind of massage, you can benefit from having heat applied to tense muscles and alleviate your
