Massage Therapy Journal Summer 2026

52 • Massage Therapy Journal

AMTA Continuing Education

therapy does not intensify the body’s immune response and thereby will not worsen the symptoms. The immune process driving synovial hypertrophy and inflammation in RA is not dependent on temperature; the immune system is inappropriately attacking and targeting the patient’s own body. RA treatments are targeted to interrupt the immune system pathways driving this inflammation. 66

everyday functioning. The goal of OT is to help people adapt to physical limitations so that they can maintain independence. 67 OT can include strategies for performing household tasks such as cooking, bathing, and dressing, finding the right exercise and employment balance, socializing and participating in hobbies. After a thorough assessment that may include movement and range-of-motion tests, an occupational therapist may recommend certain exercises, adaptations and devices that ease difficult tasks, and may even administer a survey to gauge mental health. Working with an occupational therapist may improve RA symptoms in several ways, including: 67 • Improving functionality despite joint limitations • Preventing symptom exacerbations and joint deformities by providing strategies that eliminate straining or misusing joints • Decreasing pain and helping to fight fatigue by eliminating unnecessary stress on damaged joints • Developing skills to cope with RA limitations and prioritizing personal energy use Goals for occupational therapy treatment for people with RA can include: 67 • Learning how to work around pain • Avoiding long periods of being sedentary • Identifying exercises that build muscle and strength but don’t fatigue • Adopting stress and energy management techniques • Altering the work environment to reduce fatigue and eliminate joint stress Other integrative therapies—yoga, bodywork, tai chi, supplements, may also be used by your clients. Massage Session Planning for Clients with RA Massage therapists can play a significant role in care for clients with RA. Although we do not treat the condition itself, we can provide temporary relief from its pain and stiffness, and respite from the stress that can precipitate an exacerbation of symptoms.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy . Electrodes adhered to the skin send a tiny electrical current to key points along the nerve pathway. TENS is generally believed to trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers. There is also some evidence that TENS activates certain neurochemical pathways and blocks others, resulting in a person feeling less pain. One systematic review suggests that high-intensity TENS can help with RA in the hands, but there’s little else in the way of research specifically on TENS and RA. 66 Ultrasound. Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to create a gentle heat that increases blood circulation to deep tissues. Ultrasound helps reduce inflammation, stiffness and pain. This passive therapy also can improve joint range of motion. 66 Occupational Therapy An occupational therapist works with people to perform activities of daily living when RA limits

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