According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes extreme muscle pain and fatigue. Some other symptoms may include trouble sleeping, headaches, tingling and numbness in hands or feet, and problems with memory and thinking(often referred to as Fibro Fog). The variety of symptoms and lack of knowledge and treatments for the disorder can often make this disorder unmanageable with traditional medicine. What Causes Fibromyalgia?
The causes of fibromyalgia are still unknown. However, Mayo Clinic says that many doctors believe that it involves a variety of factors working together. These factors may include: genetics, infections, and physical or emotional trauma.
How Can Massage Help Patients with Fibromyalgia?
The University of Miami School of Medicine has conducted many studies that focus of the benefits of massage for patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia. These studies have concluded that massage is a recommended complementary treatment because of the following benefits: increased serotonin levels, decreased circulating stress hormones, decreased level of substance P, which is a pain messenger, decreased tender point pain, improved sleep patterns, and improved sense of overall well-being. Therapists can do this through the use of trigger-point therapy, CranioSacral work, myofascial release, cupping, and deep tissue massage. Some therapist may use one of these methods, a combination of these methods, or even a different type of massage that they have found to help patients cope with fibromyalgia.
The Pain Doctor discusses how many patients often think that massage will hurt them or cause them more pain in the future, but it is actually quite the opposite. Massage will help to relax the muscles, stimulate weak muscles, and improve range of motions, which in turn, will help to relieve some of the symptoms of fibromyaliga discussed above. There are no conclusive studies out that show any correlation to massage and the deterioration of symptoms or the increase of pain in patients.
If you or anyone you know is suffering from fibromyalgia, feel free to give us a call or book online by clicking here.
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