In addition to preparing for the 17^th season of “Dancing with the Stars,” celebrity judge Carrie Ann Inaba is also helping fellow arthritis sufferers by serving as the national spokesperson for Healing Hands for Arthritis, a one-day fundraising event to benefit the Arthritis Foundation. A goal of the event is to debunk the myth that arthritis only affects senior citizens. In fact, 300,000 children battle arthritis, some as young as two.

Since 2011, Massage Envy Spa has raised more than $1 million to help the Arthritis Foundation serve the 50 million adults and 300,000 children affected by the disease. On Sept. 18, 2013, all of Massage Envy’s nearly 900 locations will donate $10 from every one-hour massage or facial to the Arthritis Foundation.

“It's so important to bring awareness to arthritis and the millions of Americans living with pain,” says Inaba. “Giving back to the Arthritis Foundation is a cause close to my heart as I personally battle with the disease, and I am honored to be a part of this year’s Healing Hands for Arthritis campaign.”

Inaba suffers from spinal stenosis, a painful arthritic condition where the spinal canal narrows and compresses the spinal cord and nerves. She has undergone treatments that have helped alleviate the pain, but arthritis is a chronic condition and regular maintenance is important. She uses both eastern and western approaches to keep her condition and pain in control. Massage has been an important part of her regimen for well being along with healthy eating habits and acupuncture.

“We are again thrilled to be hosting the Healing Hands for Arthritis event at all Massage Envy Spa locations throughout the U.S.,” said Dave Crisalli, President and CEO of Massage Envy Spa. “Our brand remains deeply committed to helping the Arthritis Foundation fight this debilitating disease.”

To schedule a massage or facial, contact your local Massage Envy Spa clinic. Reservations are now being accepted for Sept. 18 on a first-come, first-served basis. Those who cannot attend Healing Hands for Arthritis can still donate by texting the word “massage” to 80888. Donations can be made in $10 increments up to a total of three times per mobile phone (standard text message rates per your cell phone provider do apply).