Learn How Massage Helps Fibromyalgia
Posted by MassageTools Staff on Nov 15th 2016
Massage can be an excellent way to relieve some of the more severe symptoms of fibromyalgia, a syndrome that causes widespread chronic pain, especially in the joins, and overall fatigue. While many types of massage will help fibromyalgia sufferers, reflexology combined with traditional massage therapy has shown to produce superb results.
Reflexology is not officially a type of massage, but is instead the practice of applying massage techniques to the feet, ankles, hands or outer ears as a way to reduce overall pain. For fibromyalgia sufferers, reflexology can help relieve some of the tension that the syndrome causes in these joins. Reflexology has also been known to help people sleep, something fibromyalgia sufferers sometimes lack.
Distinct Challenges
Working with a client with fibromyalgia can be difficult. The person likely has pain on all parts of their body and can be difficult to properly massage, especially if they are sensitive to touch. A good massage, though, can bring them relief, so the massage therapist and the client need to be in regular communication about what feels good, and what causes pain.
Studies have shown that low-impact massage can help raise the levels of natural chemicals in the body that can reduce pain and fatigue, the two primary symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Additional Treatments
Along with reflexology, fibromyalgia sufferers can benefit from regular Swedish massages with light pressure. These massages focus more on increasing blood flow and reenergizing the person receiving them.
Massage therapists should also understand a little about their patients. People with fibromyalgia sometimes feel strong symptoms at different parts of the year as weather changes. A drop in temperature can cause extra stiffness for example, so massage therapists should work on a plan of regular massage as a way to help clients with fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is a difficult syndrome to live with, but with the help of massage and reflexology, the symptoms can be made much more manageable.