Fibromyalgia is a chronic musculoskeletal disorder which is associated with pain widespread in bones and muscles, anxiety, memory loss, etc. It’s a disorder of the soft tissues, where the body develops tender or trigger points. A considerable amount of pain gets inflicted even with light pressure on these tender points. There are about 18 known trigger points in the body.
What’s the cure for Fibromyalgia?
Every health condition doesn’t have a permanent cure. There is no specific reason for acquiring fibromyalgia and no known cure. However, there are various ways to alleviate pain and improve the quality of life. The treatments include pain killers, antiseizure medicines, antidepressants, etc. One of the main therapies which are less talked about is massage therapy.
Massage therapy: Catalyst for recovery
Massages are popular for releasing tension from the body and release feel-good hormones. After a good massage, there’s a decrease in stress hormones and an effective increase in serotonin. Anxiety can worsen the condition for patients with fibromyalgia with the heightened intensity of shooting pain. To regulate the recovery process and make life better, massage therapy is an excellent option.
There are various types of massages. The kind that helps fibromyalgia patients are massage techniques that have a combination of pressure points, stretching, kneading, heat therapy, etc. These massages mainly remove the stress and strain built up in the tissues. Loosening up the parts improves mobility by increasing the circulation of blood within the muscles. Since the tender points are sensitive to pressure, fibromyalgia patients are advised to consult a physician before indulging into massage therapy.
What are the recommended massage therapies?
- Swedish massage
This kind includes long fluid strokes on muscles to release tension and stress build-up. Soreness and stiffness are reduced by improving blood circulation. This massage helps to acquire better sleep and reduce anxiety. To reduce friction with the skin, oil, or lotion is used. An ideal therapist adjusts the pressure according to your convenience. There are five main strokes under this massage therapy: –
- Effleurage: The moment of gliding of hands across the skin
- Tapotement: The rhythmic tapping of fingers against the skin
- Petrissage: Kneading of the tissues with a slight pressure
- Friction: Gently moving across the fibers of the muscle
- The vibration of the body
- Myofascial release massage
Fascia is the name given to connective tissues around the muscles and nerves. Myofascial massage is used to relieve pain by stimulating the fascial tissues. By rolling the skin back and forth on various parts of the body, the therapist stretches the connective tissues. This is a simple kind of massage that doesn’t require any lubricants or massage tools.
- Shiatsu
This is a famous Japanese massage technique that has great results. The shiatsu massage is believed to restore healthy energy in the body. This is done by applying pressure to particular points of the body. Rhythmic and continuous motion on the points using fingers and hands leads to alleviation of stress. The market has shiatsu devices and pillows that promise to offer massage type pressure to various body parts. These products work fairly well.
- Trigger point massage and Acupuncture
Acupuncture is also called trigger point massage. This massage includes applying pressure to the trigger spots in the body to release pain. When there’s stress build-up and knot formation in these trigger points, it causes pain and discomfort. Pinpointed pressure on these points relaxes the knots and eases out the pain. Therapy that includes needles and injections is called acupuncture. Acupuncture has proved to be effective for chronic musculoskeletal disorders for pain relief and recovery.
Benefits of massage therapy
- Massage therapy relaxes the body and improves sleep. Since fibromyalgia causes sleeplessness and anxiety, the massage could help with quality sleep at night. The muscles can repair and rejuvenate more effectively in a well-rested human body
- Muscle tonicity improves with massage sessions. Massages help to restore strength and vitality in the muscles. This reduces lethargy and improves mobility.
- Stress reduction is a major benefit of massage therapy. With the right state of mind, any pain can be tolerated. Depression and anxiety make the condition of fibromyalgia worse.
If we look overall, massage therapy seems to be a fitting treatment for fibromyalgia patients. With proper technique and regular therapy, the lifestyle of people can be certainly improved.