Osteoarthritis Research Paper

Alternative Treatments for Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common chronic condition of the joints, affecting over 27 million Americans ("What is osteoarthritis?" 2009). It has to do with the breakdown and wearing of cartilage, which is the hard and slippery tissue that cushions the ends of bones where they meet to form a joint. Healthy cartilage allows bones to glide over one another, absorbing energy from the shock of physical movement. In OA, the wearing of the cartilage allows bones underneath to rub together, causing pain, swelling, and loss of motion of the joint. People with OA usually experience joint pain and stiffness, and the most commonly affected joints are those at the ends of the fingers and thumbs, neck,…show more content…
A licensed massage therapist will lightly stroke and/or knead the painful muscles. This may increase blood flow and bring warmth to a stressed area. Because arthritis stressed joints are so sensitive, the therapist must be familiar with the problems of the disease. Some benefits that can be achieved by using massage therapy as a treatment for OA are: decreased pain and increased mobility; increased blood flow to areas of arthritis, bringing oxygen to help healing; flushing out of toxic inflammatory substance that can add to pain and swelling; and increased relaxation and a sense of well-being. The types of massage that can help to reduce pain and swelling with OA are: trigger point, reiki, shiatsu, swedish, and reflexology. Massage is free of harmful side effects and according to several studies, it clearly shows therapeutic response…show more content…
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