How massage can help with Rheumatoid Arthritis?

In the early stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis(RA), range of motion (ROM) will be reduced because of pain. Later, due to fibrosis, the ROM will be permanently lost. There will be no movement at a joint hat has undergone bony ankylosis.

Nodules may form over pressure areas, like at the knuckles.

During the flare-ups of RA, the massage therapist jobs is provide support

• Treat inflammation ( lymph drainage ).
• Normalize systemic firing.
• Passive range of motion and low grade joint lay is indicated to control pain.

Between the flare-ups maintaining ROM is important

• Treat trigger point, spasm, unnecessarily muscle tension.
• Be careful with joint play- the joint will be fragile.
• Lengthening and strengthening should be considered.
• Postural education, and consultation on sleeping position may be necessary

In later stages of RA, other organs systems may be involved

• Nerve compression
• Nodules development in the pleural tissue of the lungs, pulmonary effusion, fibrosis of the lungs.
• Vascular occlusion, nodular development, conjunctivitis.