Arthritis Massage

An Arthritis Massage is a therapeutic manual technique tailored to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and relieve stiffness associated with various forms of arthritis—including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Properly applied, it supports joint function, boosts comfort, and aids quality of life.​

Signs & Symptoms

  • Persistent joint pain and aching, especially after use or at night

  • Morning stiffness or reduced joint mobility

  • Swelling, warmth, or redness around joints (more common in inflammatory arthritis)

  • Muscle tension and spasms from guarding joint pain

  • Crepitus or grating sensation with joint movement

  • Fatigue and activity intolerance​

Contraindications

  • Do not massage over hot, swollen, or actively inflamed joints (seek medical advice if joint is very painful, red, or hot)​

  • Avoid deep pressure or vigorous techniques during acute flare-ups

  • Refrain from treating areas with active skin infection, open wounds, or recent joint surgery

  • Extra caution for those with osteoporosis, blood clotting disorders, or advanced vascular disease

  • For rheumatoid arthritis, avoid active areas of synovitis or severe joint instability​

Assessment

  • Record detailed history: type of arthritis, symptom patterns, medication use, and joint affected

  • Visual and manual inspection for swelling, redness, heat, and deformity

  • Palpate muscles and connective tissue for tension, trigger points, and guarding

  • Functional assessment: joint mobility, muscle strength, and pain response with movement

  • Monitor for systemic or constitutional symptoms that suggest referral or caution​

Treatment

  • Employ gentle Swedish massage (long strokes and kneading) to relieve muscle stiffness and improve circulation​

  • Use moderate pressure—firm enough to stimulate receptors and reduce pain, but gentle on sensitive joints​

  • Myofascial release, gentle trigger point, and lymphatic drainage may benefit chronic pain or swelling​

  • Warm stone or heat packs may be added for relaxation (unless inflammation is present)​

  • Focus on surrounding muscles, avoiding direct work over actively inflamed joints​

  • Session frequency: weekly to monthly, individualized for comfort and disease activity​

Self Care

  • Perform daily gentle range-of-motion and stretching exercises for affected joints​

  • Practice self-massage or use massage tools with light pressure on muscles around joints​

  • Warm baths, Epsom salt soaks, or warm compresses for stiff areas (not for hot/swollen joints)​

  • Maintain regular physical activity and ergonomic adaptations in daily routines​

  • Monitor joint symptoms; avoid overexertion during flare-ups