In 2013, a study conducted by Tiffany Field and her colleagues, including Miguel Diego, Jeannette Delgado, Daniel Garcia, and C.G. Funk, has highlighted the potential benefits of moderate pressure massage therapy for individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis in the upper limbs. The research involved 42 adults who were randomly assigned to either a moderate pressure or a light pressure massage therapy group.

Participants in the study received a weekly massage on the affected arm and shoulder for four weeks. In addition, they were taught self-massage techniques to practice daily. The results indicated significant improvements for those in the moderate pressure group. Compared to the light pressure group, they reported less pain and improved grip strength after the first and last massage sessions. By the end of the study period, the moderate pressure group not only experienced reduced pain but also demonstrated increased grip strength and a greater range of motion in their wrists, elbows, and shoulders.

These findings suggest that moderate pressure massage therapy could be a valuable non-pharmacological intervention for managing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in the upper limbs, offering both pain relief and functional improvement.

Reference: Field, T., Diego, M., Delgado, J., Garcia, D., & Funk, C. G. (2013). Rheumatoid arthritis in upper limbs benefits from moderate pressure massage therapy. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 19(2), 101-103.