Medically reviewed by M. Thurairaj, Registered physiotherapist. · Last reviewed June 2026.
What a flare involves
During a flare, the usual arthritis symptoms intensify: more joint pain, stiffness, and sometimes swelling, which can make moving and everyday tasks harder for a period. Flares can come and go, and various things may trigger them. Your doctor or rheumatologist manages your arthritis and any medication, and significant or worsening flares, or new symptoms, should always be discussed with them.
Getting through a flare
Gentle measures often help: pacing your activity, balancing rest with gentle movement to avoid stiffening up entirely, and using heat or other comfort measures your doctor suggests. Following your doctor advice on managing symptoms and any medication is key. Being kind to yourself during a flare, and not pushing through as if nothing has changed, helps you cope until it settles.
Where massage may help
Gentle massage to the muscles around affected joints may ease the surrounding tightness and offer comfort, which some people find soothing, though it does not treat the arthritis itself and works alongside your medical care. During an active flare with hot, swollen joints, we keep well away from the inflamed joints and take an especially gentle approach, or wait until the flare settles. We always ask about your arthritis and follow your doctor guidance.
Key takeaways
- Flares bring extra pain, stiffness and sometimes swelling
- Pace activity, balance rest and gentle movement
- Follow your doctor on symptoms and medication
- Massage may comfort surrounding muscles; we avoid hot, swollen joints
Frequently asked questions
What helps during an arthritis flare?
Pacing activity, balancing rest with gentle movement, using comfort measures your doctor suggests, and following their advice on symptoms and medication. Be kind to yourself until it settles.
Can I have a massage during an arthritis flare?
We keep well away from hot, swollen joints during an active flare and take a very gentle approach, or wait until it settles. Gentle work on surrounding muscles may offer comfort, within your doctor guidance.