Bodywork, massage, Arthritis, conventional treatments, alternative remedies, complementary therapies, integrative therapies, mind-body therapies

Osteoarthritis is directly related to skeletal and postural difficulties. Tendons and ligaments can be torn or stretched as a result of injury , exercise, or aging. The fascial tissues (thin sheets of connective tissue which hold muscles, joints, and organs together) tend to thicken and rigidify from overuse. When the body tries to compensate, bony spurs may appear in joints, and on bones.

Bodywork can alter postural difficulties. Restoration of proper, natural posture through deep massage and movement reeducation can enable arthritic sufferers to free themselves from the pain and limitations of the disease.

Soft-tissue massage around affected joints or compassionate touching can have a comforting effect on those who suffer from arthritis. Manipulation by a therapist is especially useful when you cannot perform vigorous exercises yourself. Bodywork makes you feel good physically. It also can help soothe the emotional effects of chronic illness. Studies have shown that relieving stress and tension has a positive influence on the body's hormonal balance.

Rolfing, a type of bodywork, has been found to help many arthritis sufferers. Rolfers believe that conditions causing arthritic disturbance can be changed by stretching fascial tissues. Such a procedure repositions the body in balanced alignment with gravity.