There are many benefits to massaging the affected hand and finger. These include:
- Improved blood flow for healing
- Decreased inflammation
- Pain relief
- Improved tissue mobility and finger range of motion to prevent contracture, especially when using a splint
- Overall relaxation of the finger, hand, and forearm
- Help to restore hand and finger function
- Decreased dependence on anti-inflammatory medication
- Reduced risk of the need for trigger finger surgery, corticosteroid injections, and other invasive treatment options
For many of us, getting a massage can seem like a luxury reserved for special occasions.
However, for those with hand pain (including pain associated with arthritis), regular hand massage has been proven to decrease anxiety, improve strength and reduce pain.
Research conducted at the Touch Research Institutes at the University of Miami School of Medicine found that a combination of hand massage from a therapist and self–hand massage is likely to be effective in the easing of hand pain caused by arthritis and other conditions. The study analyzed adults who received a massage on their affected hand(s) by a therapist once a week and also performed self- hand massage daily. Results showed that the combination of massages could possibly reduce hand pain up to 57 percent.