Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, particularly affecting small joints such as the wrist. Despite pharmacological treatments, many patients continue to experience persistent pain and functional limitations.
Lavender aromatherapy massage is considered a complementary therapy that may help reduce pain and improve circulation and joint flexibility through both mechanical stimulation and the therapeutic properties of lavender essential oil.
This study is designed as a randomized controlled trial to examine the effect of lavender aromatherapy massage on pain intensity and wrist joint mobility in patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned into two groups: an intervention group receiving lavender aromatherapy massage in addition to routine medical care, and a control group receiving routine medical care only.
Pain intensity will be assessed using a standardized pain scale, and wrist joint mobility will be measured using appropriate clinical assessment tools before and after the intervention period.
The results of this study may contribute to evidence-based practice by determining whether lavender aromatherapy massage can be recommended as a safe and effective complementary intervention for managing pain and improving joint mobility in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
