Rheumatoid Arthritis And Massage
Many activities don't sound appealing when you have rheumatoid arthritis, and massage is one of them. Sometimes your joints feel so bad, it feels as if the bones might split apart at the slightest touch. You need to go to your doctor to get accurately diagnosed to get you proper medication for your rheumatoid arthritis. And massage is a complimentary therapy that can greatly help your medication better do it's job.
Benefits Of Massage
When you have rheumatoid arthritis, you risk having your circulation to your extremities get so poor it stops. You need to keep your blood flowing when you have rheumatoid arthritis, and massage may bring the relief you need. Massage also warms up the affected joints and usually makes the pain lessen. It can also help ease stiffened joints temporarily back to mobility. You can do the massage yourself or have someone else do it.
You really don't need any special massage movements or techniques when you massage yourself for rheumatoid arthritis. Don't put too much pressure on your bones and take off all rings before massaging. Just stroke or rub like you would be putting on body or hand lotion. Try not to think about it - just rub. Your body will tell you what movements are best. You can use body lotion if that helps your hands move easier. Many natural healers recommend massaging with warm or room temperature oil, with aromatherapy oils added only if you want them to.
Another benefit of massage is that it gives you a chance to relax and breathe deeper. Being able to have even a once daily temporary refuge from your problems helps your overall health, not just your rheumatoid arthritis.