Massage therapy has long-term, lasting effects on pain management. The Arthritis Foundation has indicated that a regular massage to the muscles and joints helps to soothe the pain from arthritis.
If you've ever gotten a massage, you know that it can greatly increase your mood. This effect is because massages boost the levels of serotonin in your body, a chemical that contributes to happiness and well-being.
What you might not know is that massage therapy can also lower the body's production of cortisol, a stress inducing hormone that also helps the production of a neurotransmitter, Substance P. Substance P has a strong link to pain.
Several studies have been performed, most notably in 2013 by researchers at the Touch Research Institute, and 2015 by the University of Miami School of Medicine. Both studies show that moderate touch massage therapy not only can reduce pain, but improve on grip, range of motion, and pressure.
Massages should be done by a licensed professional and is best performed by those with arthritis specialties. You can always let your therapist know of any sore areas to be avoided, and work with them to find the best pressure for your body.
Stiff muscles and joints are often exacerbated by stress and tension which we struggle to avoid when in pain so regular massages will help alleviate these issues.
So, lay back and relax, and let a professional massage therapist massage those aching joints and muscles! And don't be afraid to ask your specialist for at home massage techniques you can do yourself between sessions.