“World Arthritis Day is a global initiative bringing people together to raise awareness of issues affecting people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs).” (1)
Arthritis, affecting 22.7% (or 52.5 million) of adult Americans, is the most common cause of disability in the US. 2 This number is expected to increase with the aging population. It has been estimated that by 2030, 67 million adults will have been diagnosed with Arthritis.(2)
So how can massage therapy, from LaVida Massage, help to manage the symptoms of arthritis? There are a few ways:
- Relieves pain
- Reduces stiffness
- Increases your range of motion
- Improves overall function of joints
“Research has shown that massage can lower the body’s production of the stress hormone cortisol, and boost production of serotonin, which, in turn, can improve mood. Additionally, massage can lower production of the neurotransmitter substance P, often linked to pain, and improve sleep as a result.”(3)
The licensed massage therapists at LaVida Massage are well trained to help relieve these types of symptoms but it is important to keep in mind that massage therapy is not to be replaced with doctor-prescribed medications, rather a complementary measure. Like any medical issue, it is very important to talk to your LaVida Massage therapist about your arthritis; the more specific you can be, the more your massage therapist will be able to help relieve your aches and pains.
To learn more about World Arthritis Day go to http://worldarthritisday.org/