Arthritis is a degenerative condition that is characterized by inflammation and sometimes derangement of the joints. It can be both painful and debilitating. The classification includes commonly known conditions such as Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis, but is also used to classify conditions such as Gout, Lupus, and Fibromyalgia.
As a massage therapist, I work daily with clients that suffer from chronic pain associated with arthritis. Particularly troublesome is arthritis in the hands and wrists, as it is not only painful, but limits one's ability to do the activities of daily life like opening doors, writing and picking up kids and grandkids. It is important to understand that although arthritis is a degenerative condition.