Arthritis
Most people who suffer from arthritis are usually given one of the following diagnoses. Osteoarthritis is marked by the deterioration of the joints - most often the hips, knees, and spine. Accompanied by warmth and frequent pain, this disease results in deformity when, after continual bone to bone contact, one side of a joint gives way in collapse. Rheumatoid arthritis, the most common form, usually affects the joints of the fingers, arms, legs, and wrists. Symptoms may also develop outside the joints, affecting the heart, lungs, and eyes. Symptoms of fibromyalgia include fatigue, depression, deep muscle pain, and painful points lying beneath the surface of the skin. Clients may also report the stiffness and inflammation characteristic of other types of arthritis.
At Hands On Healing Arts Center we offer many techniques to help ease the discomfort of arthritis.
You may also request Biofreeze in place of massage oil. Biofreeze contains menthol and camphor, providing that "icy/hot" sensation without the lingering scent.
CranioSacral Therapy
This very gentle technique addresses restrictions involving the spinal column and bones of the skull. CST is extremely relaxing. Try this technique if your condition affects your neck or back, you have chronic or severe headaches, you want gentle work, or you want to remain fully clothed.Deep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue Massage combines slow strokes with firm pressure. The focus is to relieve pressure around the joints by reducing muscular tension. Since Deep Tissue Massage can be counterproductive for some clients, it is important to schedule with a therapist who will be sensitive to your needs and continually adjust the pressure to match your level of comfort. Hot Stone Massage
For some clients heat is very soothing. Hot Stones may be added to a gentle Swedish Massage. The strokes are much slower, allowing the heat to permeate the tissues. This helps the body to metabolize toxins. Neuromuscular ReEducation
NMR is a gentle technique that utilizes relaxing movement as a means to "trick" the nervous system into letting go of the muscles. The movement is very gentle, which encourages the flow of lymph and other fluids. You can also expect increased range of motion. This technique may be beneficial if swelling (edema) is a concern or if you want to remain fully clothed. Reflexology
Reflexology consists of rubbing points located on the hands and feet. These points are chosen based on the belief that they are related to various other parts of the body. Reflexolgy is very relaxing and benefits the whole body but is especially helpful for conditions that affect your hands and feet. Swedish Massage
The focus of Swedish Massage is to apply friction to the top layer of joint muscle with the purpose of generating additional joint movement. Other techniques may easily be incorporated into the session, as well. Thai Massage
Thai Massage works by applying pressure to designated points on the body, along the Meridians (energy paths). Gentle yet deep stretching is facilitated by the therapist while the clients rests. Rather than focusing on specific muscle groups, the Thai therapist systematically works the muscles from different angles for a real full body experience.
For more information on various treatments for Arthritis, visit Dr. Nathan Wei's website at:
www.arthritis-treatment-and-relief.com.
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