Arthritis affects over 6 million Canadians, and its impact on daily life can be significant — stiff, painful joints that make it difficult to walk, climb stairs, open jars, or enjoy activities you love. At Artemis Wellness Clinic in Richmond, we provide integrated treatment that helps manage arthritis pain, maintain joint function, and improve your quality of life.
Types of Arthritis We Treat
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form, caused by wear and tear of joint cartilage over time. It most commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness (especially in the morning or after rest), reduced range of motion, and swelling.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joint lining. It can affect multiple joints and may cause systemic symptoms including fatigue and inflammation.
We also treat patients with other forms of arthritis including psoriatic arthritis, gout, and ankylosing spondylitis.
How Our Treatments Help
RMT Massage Therapy
Massage therapy helps arthritis by reducing muscle tension around affected joints, improving circulation to promote healing, decreasing pain through nervous system modulation, maintaining range of motion in stiff joints, and reducing swelling through lymphatic techniques. Our RMTs use gentle, appropriate pressure — arthritis treatment does not require deep, aggressive massage.
Acupuncture for Arthritis
Acupuncture is widely recognized as effective for arthritis pain. It reduces joint inflammation, stimulates natural pain relief mechanisms, improves blood flow to joint tissues, and addresses associated symptoms such as fatigue and sleep disruption. TCM views arthritis as a condition related to the obstruction of Qi and blood flow in the joints, often influenced by cold, damp, or wind.
Physiotherapy and Kinesiology
Exercise is one of the most important treatments for arthritis. Our physiotherapists and kinesiologists design programs that strengthen muscles supporting affected joints, maintain and improve range of motion, improve balance and reduce fall risk, and provide low-impact cardiovascular conditioning. The right exercise program can slow arthritis progression and significantly reduce pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can massage therapy make arthritis worse?
When performed by a trained RMT who understands arthritis, massage therapy is safe and beneficial. Your RMT will adjust techniques based on your specific condition and any active inflammation.
Is arthritis treatment covered by insurance?
Yes. RMT, acupuncture, physiotherapy, and chiropractic care for arthritis are covered by most extended health plans. We offer direct billing.
Is exercise safe with arthritis?
Absolutely. Appropriate exercise is one of the best treatments for arthritis. The key is choosing the right type and intensity. Your physiotherapist will design a program that is safe and effective for your specific condition.
Book Your Arthritis Assessment
Our team can help you manage arthritis effectively. Call 604-242-2233 or book online: https://artemis.janeapp.com/