Osteoarthritis Sufferers Choose Massage Therapy For Pain Relief

By Frances Gibson


Not a lot of people are aware that arthritis has over 100 different kinds. Osteoarthritis is a form that affects many. From senior citizens to athletes, different kinds of individuals may end up with osteoarthritis. Effective symptom control and management is constantly sought by those who are afflicted with the said disease concerning the joints due to the aching it causes. According to most osteoarthritis sufferers, massage therapy for pain relief is their number one choice.

Simply put, osteoarthritis is the wear and tear of the cartilage situated in the joint. The presence of cartilage makes it possible for a joint to move without any trouble. If the cartilage is damaged, one can expect to encounter problems especially during physical activities.

Aging is a reason why osteoarthritis strikes. Years of joint movement can cause the cartilage to become damaged gradually. It's for this reason exactly why a lot of people who are over 60 years old are complaining about the joint disease.

It's very much possible for a person who is just 20 or 30 years old to end up suffering from osteoarthritis, too. So in other words, the problem is not exclusive to older people. Someone who is into sports may develop it due to a joint trauma or injury. An individual who engages in manual labor and tends to overuse some of his or her joints may also wind up complaining about osteoarthritis.

Regardless of the cause, one thing about osteoarthritis remains true, and that's the fact that it can cause a lot of pain. The affected joint may also become swollen. In the morning upon waking up or after staying in a particular position for a really long time, the joint with the disease may become stiff.

There are so many painkillers available for people who are bugged by osteoarthritis. Some of them are sold over the counter while others are prescribed by doctors. No matter the case, constantly taking these drugs is not a really a good idea. That's because they are known to come with an assortment of side effects. Some really common ones include stomachache, dizziness, nausea and ringing in the ears, which is referred to by doctors as tinnitus.

High blood pressure, liver or kidney damage, swelling of the throat and stomach ulcers may come into being as a result of taking certain painkillers. Health experts say that the risks and side effects intensify the higher your dosage. Unnecessary problems may also stem from prolonged intake of these drugs.

It's for this reason exactly why many of those who are suffering from osteoarthritis look for different ways to manage the associated symptoms. Some well known home remedies include rest, elevation and ice compresses. Many swear by the effectiveness of having massages.

Massages work because they assist in improving blood circulation to the affected joints. This helps supply the area with more oxygen and nutrients necessary for healing of the damaged cartilage. Also, they facilitate the removal of toxins and waste materials from stiff and inflamed areas. Through massages, it's very much possible to attain relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis without taking painkilling drugs.




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