Massage for arthritis: CONCLUSION

The Perlman study is the first RCT specifically examining the efficacy of massage for osteoarthritis of the knee. Its rigorous design provides compelling evidence for the use of massage in treating this debilitating condition, one that massage therapists are likely to encounter in many different practice settings. In order to strengthen the case for the potential value of massage for this condition, researchers should duplicate the study design on broader samples of subjects with osteoarthritis of the knee, as well as explore the use of massage for osteoarthritis affecting other body parts. As the U.S. population ages, more clients are likely to seek massage as an effective way to provide pain relief and improve mobility. Compared  to the high incidence of adverse effects reported from prescription medications for arthritis, massage is an attractive option from both the consumer’s and the physician’s perspective.