Massage and Fibromyalgia: Things to Know
If you suffer from fibromyalgia, you’ll be all too familiar with the consistent pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances that often make it difficult for you to live a normal life. Not only can this complex disorder significantly impact your day-to-day activities, it can also impact your ability to perform everyday tasks, or carry out your job efficiently when you’re at work. The compounding effects of this disorder can cause even further emotional distress, which is why it’s important to find ways to keep your symptoms at bay.
Fortunately, massage therapy has emerged as a promising complementary treatment for managing fibromyalgia symptoms, and has been proven effective in a number of studies. In this blog post, we’re going to take a look at how massage therapy can help those with fibromyalgia, as well as the various techniques that can be beneficial for symptom relief. Let’s get started.
What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by both localized and widespread pain and fatigue, and estimates indicate that around 10 million Americans suffer with the condition. Fibromyalgia can cause symptoms such as muscle stiffness, sleep disturbances, cognitive problems, digestive issues, headaches, depression and anxiety, and in addition to these physical symptoms, people with fibromyalgia may experience heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and even clinical depression. It’s also important to note that diagnosis of fibromyalgia can be difficult and lengthy, meaning that sufferers can go for years managing their symptoms without adequate help, support, and treatment.
How can massage therapy help fibromyalgia?
From reducing muscle pain to improving sleep quality, here are just a few ways that massage therapy can be beneficial to those suffering from fibromyalgia:
Alleviating pain and tension
One of the most significant benefits of massage therapy for fibromyalgia sufferers is its ability to alleviate pain and tension; the application of pressure and strokes during a massage helps relax the muscles, increase blood flow, and release endorphins, the body's natural pain relievers.
Reducing muscle stiffness
Fibromyalgia often causes muscle stiffness and aches, which can limit an individual’s mobility and make daily activities challenging; massage therapy can help improve flexibility and range of motion by relaxing tight muscles and tendons, and reducing inflammation in the ligaments. This can make it easier for sufferers to move with ease, or move with reduced pain.
Improving sleep quality
Sleep disturbances are a common symptom of fibromyalgia, and poor sleep can exacerbate both physical pain as well as other mental and emotional symptoms associated with the condition. Massage therapy has been shown to promote better sleep quality by relaxing the body and reducing stress hormones, and improved sleep can help fibromyalgia sufferers manage their symptoms more effectively. Plus, if you don’t have the energy to make it to the salon or beauty parlor, you can hire a therapist who can carry out a full body massage for you at home.
Enhancing emotional wellbeing
Living with fibromyalgia can take a toll on a person's emotional health, and living with the condition on a day-to-day basis can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress. Massage therapy can help improve emotional well-being by increasing the release of serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters that can help to regulate mood and induce feelings of happiness and relaxation. You can even have a nice time with your partner by referring mobile massage services for couples in Atlanta, and reap the benefits of massage therapy together.
Boost energy
Chronic fatigue is a common symptom of fibromyalgia, and this fatigue can make it difficult for sufferers to maintain their daily routines or their professional workload. This is where massage therapy can come in handy: by promoting better blood circulation throughout the body - which allows more oxygen and nutrients to reach the body's tissues - massage therapy can boost energy levels, allowing those suffering with fibromyalgia to engage in their daily activities with greater ease, or without triggering fatigue or exhaustion.
Reduced stress
Stress can exacerbate and worsen fibromyalgia symptoms, so finding ways to relax and reduce stress is essential in proper management of the condition. Massage therapy is a proven stress reducer, as it lowers cortisol levels and releases those all-important endorphins, aka your happy hormones.
What are the best types of massage for fibromyalgia?
There are several massage techniques that may be beneficial for individuals with fibromyalgia, but it's important to note that not all symptoms of the condition are the same, and thus the right massage for one sufferer might not be the most beneficial for another. That being said, some of the most effective massage techniques for fibromyalgia include:
Swedish massage
A Swedish massage is a gentle form of massage that uses long, flowing strokes, gentle kneading, and tapping to relax the muscles and improve circulation. This type of massage can help alleviate pain, reduce muscle stiffness, and promote relaxation, making it ideal for fibromyalgia sufferers.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial release - often referred to as myofascial massage - is a massage technique that targets the connective tissue surrounding the muscles, known as fascia. This type of massage helps to release tension and adhesions in the fascia, leading to reduced pain and increased mobility. As myofascial release is a gentle, slow, and stretching-based technique, it can be highly effective in addressing the tender points commonly associated with fibromyalgia.
Trigger point therapy
Trigger point therapy is a more focused massage technique that targets specific areas of muscle tightness or "knots" known as trigger points. By applying concentrated pressure on these points, the massage therapist can help to release muscle tension and alleviate pain. This method can be particularly beneficial for fibromyalgia sufferers who tend to experience localized pain and tenderness in certain areas of the body.
Craniosacral therapy
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, non-invasive technique that focuses on the head, spine, and sacrum to release tension and restore balance in the body's central nervous system. By using light touch and subtle manipulation, craniosacral therapists can help alleviate pain, improve sleep, and reduce stress in individuals with fibromyalgia.
Lymphatic drainage massage
Lymphatic drainage massage is another useful form of massage therapy for those with fibromyalgia, and works by using a gentle technique that focuses on promoting the flow of lymph, a fluid that helps remove waste and toxins from the body. This type of massage can help reduce inflammation, support the immune system, and improve overall well-being, making it ideal for fibromyalgia sufferers.
How to have a successful massage experience with Fibromyalgia
Communicate with your therapist
It's essential to communicate your needs, preferences, and any concerns with your massage therapist before beginning your session; this will allow you time to discuss your fibromyalgia symptoms and any specific areas of pain or tenderness that need attention. Open communication will help your therapist tailor the massage to your specific needs, making the experience more effective and enjoyable.
Start slowly
If you're new to massage therapy or have never tried it for fibromyalgia, it's a good idea to start with shorter, gentler sessions to see how your body responds. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of the massages as you become more comfortable and familiar with the techniques.
Consistency is key
While a single massage session can provide immediate relief from fibromyalgia symptoms, regular sessions are more effective in managing long-term pain and discomfort. Aim for consistent massage therapy sessions - such as once or twice a month - to maximize the benefits and help keep fibromyalgia symptoms at bay.
Combine with other holistic approaches
Massage therapy can be even more effective when combined with other holistic approaches to manage fibromyalgia symptoms. Consider incorporating practices such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture into your wellness routine for a comprehensive approach to fibromyalgia management.