What is Fibromyalgia and How Can Massage Therapy Help?

Did you know that May is Fibromyalgia Awareness Month?

If you're one of the many people in Jacksonville, Florida living with this painful condition, read on to understand fibromyalgia and how massage therapy can help you feel better and enhance your overall wellbeing.

Fibromyalgia is a condition that increases a person's sensitivity and pain sensations. It is thought to be related to the central nervous system, in which pain signals are sent in response to non-harmful stimuli. It can cause pain and tenderness throughout the body, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. It also tends to make those who have fibromyalgia particularly sensitive to any strong sensation, including bright lights, sudden noises, and stress.

Because the cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown and each person's symptoms are unique, treatment must take a holistic approach. The good news is that many studies have found massage therapy to offer both short-term and long-term relief for many people living with fibromyalgia.


How Can Massage Therapy Help Fibromyalgia?

Several studies have found that massage therapy can provide both short-term relief and long-term reduction of pain symptoms for people with fibromyalgia. Treatments range from gentle touch massage to specific therapies like myofascial massage and trigger point therapy. In these studies, fibromyalgia patients report that they experience temporary relief and that regular massage lasting over five weeks provides lasting relief.
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• 2014 Study: Massage Therapy for Fibromyalgia
• 2010 Study: Benefits of Myofascial Massage for Fibromyalgia

In addition to the reduction in muscle pain and overall sensitivity, patients report an improvement in sleep quality and depth, which can be critical for the health and well-being of those with fibromyalgia.

It has also been found through both studies and individual cases that communication is key. Fibromyalgia patients often need a comprehensive approach to massage, exploring which techniques provide them with personal relief.

75% of people with fibromyalgia seek regular massage therapy, which suggests that it is helpful.

Why Does Massage Provide Relief for Fibromyalgia?

It is not known exactly why various types of massage provide relief for Fibromyalgia, but there are a few well-reasons hypotheses in the medical community. Massage can potentially provide a wide range of benefits that improve the symptoms and side effects of life with Fibromyalgia.
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• Releasing muscle tension and trigger points.
  • This can reduce muscle pain and stiffness caused by being constantly on edge.
  • Relaxation can reduce the tension or muscle aches that trigger a pain response.

 

• Releasing Positive Neurotransmitters
  • Massage can help the body to release endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine
  • These neurotransmitters improve sleep, regulate mood, and can alter response to nervous system pain signals.

 

• Improved Sleep
  • Massage is known to improve sleep depth and quality
  • Fibormyalgia patients often suffer from sleep disturbance, and sleep quality can impact the condition.


• Sensitization
  • It is possible that the gentle touch of massage helps fibromyalgia patients remap their response to physical sensations as something other than pain.

How to Find the Right Massage Therapist for Fibromyalgia 

Fibromyalgia patients seeking massage therapy must find the right place and therapist. Fibromyalgia therapy massage is a journey that is unique for each patient, and you'll need a massage therapist who can start gently and work with you through partnership and communication.

Where You Feel Safe

Start by finding a massage therapy practice where you feel safe and comfortable. The environment should be soothing, private, and reassuring. This will help you relax and gain the greatest benefit from your massage therapy.

You can also ask to see the therapy rooms and ask about special settings like extra-dim lights or a different ambient scent to create an environment that soothes rather than triggers your sensitivities.

A Therapist who Listens and Works With You

Most importantly, you need a massage therapist who is empathic to your needs. Someone who listens, who is willing to start with the gentlest possible massage and explore techniques until you find the right ones, together, that ease your symptoms and provide long-term relief.

It's a good idea to interview massage therapists until you find the right person, with whom you feel safe and who really listens to your needs. It should also be someone you feel comfortable talking to during the massage to let them know if a technique causes you pain, or if you want to try something else along the way.

Long-Term Benefits of Massage for Fibromyalgia

If all goes well, your first massage will open the door to a personal journey. Working with your massage therapist, you may discover techniques that provide not just short-term relaxation, but longer-term lessening of your symptoms. Build a bond with your massage therapist to discover the potential long-term benefits of massage for fibromyalgia, which have been pioneered by other patients before them.


Finding a Compassionate Massage Therapy Practice in Jacksonville, FL

If you are looking for a massage therapy practice in Jacksonville, FL,  that can accommodate your fibromyalgia wellness plan, The Wellness Hub is honored to become your safe harbor.

Please feel free to contact us or visit our wellness center in person to meet our therapists and discuss your needs. It is our goal to help each guest discover the relaxation they need through communication and massage.

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We are pleased to serve the following Florida communities with massage therapy, chiropractic, organic skincare, acupuncture, red light therapy and more: Jacksonville, Orange Park, Fleming Island, Mandarin, Jacksonville Beach, Nocatee, St Johns, Ponte Vedra and more.

Call Us (904) 512-755
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