Massage can help to relieve many of the common symptoms of arthritis by reducing pain and stiffness, improving the range of motion in joints, helping to ease anxiety, and promoting a more restful sleep. People who experience chronic arthritis symptoms may want to consider using massage therapy on a regular basis to help manage their symptoms. Massage using moderate pressure can help lower the amount of the stress hormone cortisol in the body, while also boosting the mood-improving hormone serotonin. It has also been found to lower the production of a neurotransmitter substance that is often linked to pain.