Fibromyalgia mostly affects women and can cause chronic pain, fatigue, and other symptoms, like migraines. Fibromyalgia has affected approximately 5 million Americans, according to the NIAMSD. Women are affected much more than men by a 9:1 ratio. The main age range when fibromyalgia is diagnosed is between 20 and 50. While you should always follow a treatment plan prescribed by your doctor, massage has been shown to help fibromyalgia sufferers manage their symptoms and find relief over time.
Our therapists at Moonstone Massage Therapy in Winston-Salem understand that those who suffer from fibromyalgia may have issues with pain. This in turn can make them sensitive to touch. For this reason, we want you to keep lines of communication open during your massage session. Our top priority is your relaxation and a pain-free experience, Please make us aware of any pain, discomfort, or other physical sensations during the massage so we can adjust according to your needs and pressure tolerance. Generally, the massage will start with a light to medium pressure and then is adjusted based on your comfort level.
How can it help?
Those that suffer from fibromyalgia often say that they aren’t able to get a good night’s sleep. Their discomfort can leave them tossing and turning each night. However, those that receive massage therapy often feel they sleep much better that night. This is most likely due to the fact that massage can increase serotonin levels.
In addition to better rest, a study done by the University of Miami, Touch Institute, that focused on finding what benefits massage had for fibromyalgia had more to say. The study showed that there was “increased serotonin level, decreased circulating stress hormones, decreased levels of substance P (basically a pain messenger), decreased tender point pain, improved sleep patterns, and improved overall sense of well-being.”
Mental Clarity
Some find it also helps with the “brain fog” many experience as a symptom of their fibromyalgia. Many sufferers describe this fog as having difficulty thinking or remembering things. Massage can help with mental clarity and focus for anyone. Yet is especially useful for increasing the concentration and awareness of clients with fibromyalgia.
Pain Management
Many find that getting a regular massage helps with their pain management and sleep patterns as well as their mood. Dealing with fibromyalgia can be mentally taxing. By taking the time to relax and enjoy a massage, you are giving yourself a much-needed break. The benefits of massage can truly help with your discomfort, mental clarity and let you release some of the stress you may be feeling in your body.
If you decide to come to Moonstone Massage Therapy in Winston-Salem, we want you to know we take fibromyalgia seriously. Our massage therapists have extensive training and experience, coupled with an understanding of the needs of clients with chronic pain. During our intake process, we will ask for your medical history and symptoms before the session. This will help us create a customized experience since fibromyalgia is different for everyone.