A recent study completed by Touch Research Institute found massage therapy effective in reducing hand pain and increasing grip strength in arthritis patients.

Arthritis is a systemic inflammatory disease that causes persistent joint pain and can affect people of all ages and activity level, it is one of the most common chronic diseases in the United Stated, disabling more people every year than heart disease and strokes combined, costing the US economy approximately $65 billion every year.

From the 100 rheumatic conditions called arthritis, Rheumatic Arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis are two of the most common. "Many of my clients check arthritis in their health history form but don't know what type they have" says Tania Schwarz, Licensed Massage Therapist.

Massage is not indicated during the acute stage of Both Rheumatic Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. "My concern is with RA for it is an inflammatory condition caused by agents in the circulatory system. Any circulatory massage should be avoided during the acute stage of RA to decrease the risk of the disease spreading to other joints in the body. "Clients often don't know in which stage they are, leaving up to the therapist to judge" says Schwarz.

A diagnosis should be obtained from a doctor before one considering massage. Massage Therapist are not equipped to tell the difference between the two conditions, and it is possible that a client could have both simultaneously.

Although osteoarthritis is identified by a physical examination and patient history, a fluid sample taken from the joint may rule out other diseases such as RA.

At this point there is no cure for Arthritis. All the treatments options aim to reduce pain and inflammation and to limit joint structure damage.

According to a Consumer Reports survey's in 2005, Complimentary medical treatments such as chiropractic and massage is getting the highest marks to hands on practices lately. From all the modalities available Deep Tissue is particularly effective for pain relief. " I offer 30 minutes Hands & Arms Deep Tissue Massage Series to my arthritis clients. "I customize the sessions to my clients needs but most often a session includes essentials oils, heat and gentle stretches. Additionally, I provide my clients with written massage techniques to be used at home", Says Schwarz.

Doctors now are recommending an aggressive course of treatments as soon as arthritis is diagnosed to limit cumulative joint damage and decrease pain and suffering.

Tania Schwarz is nationally certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and licensed by the State of Florida to practice Massage Therapy and Bodywork. Tania works at Bellissimo Salon and Spa in PalmCity. Persons interested in more information may visit her website at www.massagebylmt.com or call 954 804 2580.