Arthritis occurs when a person's joints become inflamed. As a result, they may experience debilitating pain and even deformation. To make matters even worse, there is nothing out there that can officially 'cure' arthritis. Instead, sufferers must find relief through perpetual treatments, whether it's drugs or holistic alternatives. A common example of the latter can be found through hot stone therapy.
What is hot rock therapy? Heat therapy is a type of massage where heated stones are applied to various areas of the body. The feeling associated with the massage is very pleasant due to both the heat and the stone's smoothness. But hot stone therapy also offers physiological benefits, since the heat helps to improve the body's blood flow. With this increase in blood flow, the arthritic joint is able to receive more nutrients from the body's cells. And when this happens, the inflammation lessens.
Now, if all of this sounds off-the-wall, think about some of the more 'common' treatments doctors recommend for arthritis. Heating pads, warm baths and the like all work off of the same principle. However, this type of therapy is a little bit more powerful, because the heat is actually massaged into the skin. Plus, it is much more enjoyable for a person's psyche.
This is not to say that this kind of therapy is perfect. As helpful as it is, hot stone therapy is not effective at reducing arthritic swelling. So, in that situation, a masseuse might decide to alternate with cold stones. The feeling is still pleasant, but since cold is being applied, the body's nervous system slows down. This halts activity within the joint, including fluid build-up.
In conclusion, don't underestimate the power a masseuse has when it comes to relieving your arthritis. Sure, massages won't eliminate your arthritis, but they will make it much more tolerable.
No comments:
Post a Comment