Therapeutic Massage Can Ease Joint Pain for Active Individuals in Freehold, NJ

In addition to relieving stress and promoting relaxation, therapeutic massage can be beneficial for treating painful joints. Studies show that the regular use of this relatively simple therapy can decrease pain and stiffness and improve range of motion, hand grip strength, and overall joint function. At New Jersey Joints in Freehold, NJ, we often incorporate massage into more comprehensive treatment plans for arthritis and other joint issues.

While massage is known to be effective for joint pain, researchers are less clear on how those benefits are actually achieved. One theory is that therapeutic massage can reduce the body’s production of the stress hormone cortisol and simultaneously boost its production of the “feel good” hormone serotonin. Additionally, massage can reduce the body’s production of the neurotransmitter substance P, which is often linked to pain. This can result in a relaxed mood and more restful sleep, both of which may help with joint pain.

The joint specialists at New Jersey Joints in Freehold, New Jersey, emphasize that therapeutic massage should never hurt. To avoid pain when performing massage for arthritis treatment, a massage therapist should:

• Tailor the treatment to the patient’s specific needs, concerns, and comfort level
• Avoid applying direct pressure to painful or inflamed areas
• Refrain from using deep tissue techniques, which sometimes cause arthritis flare-ups
• Lower the massage table or make a stool available to the patient for ease of access

It’s important to note that therapeutic massage for arthritis should be approached as a complementary therapy. In other words, massage should be used in conjunction with — rather than as a replacement for — traditional treatments, such as physical therapy and pain medications.

If you’re interested in trying therapeutic massage for joint pain, contact New Jersey Joints. During a personal consultation at our office in Freehold, NJ, a joint specialist can help you determine if this treatment is right for you.