Millions of Americans have Fibromyalgia. People with the condition can experience a wide range of unpleasant symptoms, including chronic, widespread pain, depression, anxiety, trouble sleeping, fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. While the extent and severity of these symptoms can vary, those that live with this complex disorder must find ways to cope since their discomfort can last for years. Many people turn to massage therapy to help alleviate the symptoms of fibromyalgia, feel better, and improve their quality of life.    

How is Massage Therapy Beneficial for Fibromyalgia? 

Massage for Fibromyalgia, like most types of massage therapies, consists of long broad strokes and kneading of your muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons to help relieve tension and lessen pain. It can range from light strokes to firmer pressure depending on your needs the type of chronic pain your experience. 

For Fibromyalgia patients, professionally trained massage therapists work to encourage circulation within your muscles to improve the flow of nutrients and help eliminate waste products from your body. When your circulation increases, more oxygen is transported to tissues to aid in healing and enable endorphins, the body’s natural tranquilizers, to be secreted by the brain to help with pain relief.  

Other notable benefits of massage therapy for Fibromyalgia include relaxing your body so you can finally get a good night’s rest, as well as improving your mental clarity and alertness. When you are in less pain, it can also diminish some of the effects of depression and anxiety, and help restore homeostasis or balance within your body.          

Massage Techniques to Relieve Fibromyalgia Pain

Massage therapists can utilize a variety of massage techniques specifically for Fibromyalgia pain. Depending on your tender points and how sensitive you are, your therapist will choose a type of massage best suited for your needs. It is essential that you feel comfortable with your therapist and that you can communicate how you are feeling throughout your session so that you get the best results possible. The following are types of massages and therapies used to help those living with Fibromyalgia relieve their symptoms and pain.