Massage For Fibromyalgia
Nearly anyone can benefit from a massage done by a skilled massage therapist, but this form of alternative treatment can be particularly helpful for fibromyalgia patients. The widespread pain, tenderness and stiffness that are common symptoms of fibromyalgia can be minimized by gentle massage and muscle manipulation.
Physical Benefits and Types of Massage
The most obvious and immediate benefit of massage therapy are the physical benefits many patients experience. Massage therapy can help loosen tight joints and muscles, which leads to less severe widespread pain. It can also greatly reduce trigger point tenderness or sensitivity. Many massage therapists experienced in treating patients with fibromyalgia use a specific technique called trigger point therapy to help tender spots relax under bands of muscle fibers.
Other therapists and patients prefer Swedish massage techniques, which combine the standard rubbing and pressure of any massage with deeper kneading and beating to help increase blood flow. More blood getting to your tender muscles and sore spots means more oxygen and nutrients in those areas, which promote healing.
Deep tissue massage is a common massage therapy technique in general, but it's usually not the best choice for fibromyalgia patients who have tenderness or trigger points since it can be too intense and may lead to more pain. Some fibromyalgia patients are able to handle this deeper form of massage that seeks to reach and relax the muscles deeper than surface level ones, but you shouldn't undergo a deep tissue massage without trying some gentler techniques first.
Mental Benefits
Many fibromyalgia patients also suffer from depression or anxiety. The relaxation brought on by a comfortable massage, coupled with any pain relief you get from the treatment can help significantly lower your stress levels, boost your mood and help keep you calm. The more relaxed you are, the more likely it is you'll experience reduced pain since stress and anxiety lead to tension and tight muscles, which, in turn, can lead to more pain.
Sleep Benefits
Sleep problems, such as insomnia, trouble staying asleep throughout the night or not being able to get restful sleep, are another common fibromyalgia symptom. Massage therapy can help reduce stress hormones that affect your sleep, and simply being more relaxed and having less pain can help you get a better night's rest as well. Some fibromyalgia patients see massage therapists regularly to help keep them loose and relaxed so they're able to sleep, helping their bodies heal themselves through restorative sleep.
If you haven't tried massage to help manage your fibromyalgia symptoms before, be sure to let your massage therapist know you have the condition and any particularly painful or tender spots you have. It's best to get clearance from your family doctor or pain management doctor before seeking massage as a treatment to help you manage your symptoms, and you may want to interview several massage therapists to find out about their experience in treating people with fibromyalgia before committing to a session with one. Visit a website like http://dccrocksprings.com/ for more help.