Benefits of Massage for Fibromyalgia
Myofascial release (a modality of massage therapy) can help relieve stresses in your body, especially if you suffer from fibromyalgia. Photo credit to imagerymajestic at freedigitalphotos.net
I’m sure most of you know someone who is affected by fibromyalgia pain. Web MD says 1 out of 50 people have this syndrome, which has a collection of of symptoms: widespread pain, severe fatigue, tender points on the body, and anxiety or depression.
There are, of course, a few medications that are prescribed for fibromyalgia, but if you want a different option than pills or additional support, there are also helpful alternative therapies such as massage, accupuncture, or various supplements and herbs.
Recent studies show that the best modality of massage for fibromyalgia is the myofascial release (MFR) technique: this modality showed the greatest positive effects on pain relief and had great results in reduction of depression and anxiety. With subsequent visits, both the pain, anxiety and depression relief were maintained.
You’re probably wondering, “What is Myofascial Release?” Well, first…What is fascia? The Wikipedia Definition: “A fascia is a band or sheet of connective tissue fibers, primarily collagen, that forms beneath the skin to attach, stabilize, enclose, and separate muscles and other internal organs.” My Defintion: Think of a spider web, which is all one continuous fiber. You pull on one area of the web and the rest pulls with it. That’s also how the fascia is in our bodies, so if there are fascial restrictions in one area, then the rest of the body is compromised. Myofascial release uses slow, deep strokes to ease the restrictions in the fascia beneath our skin to allow our bodies to move more freely. Joints are loosened and tightness is relieved.
You’ll be on your way to feeling better soon enough!
Myofascial release is one of the modalities of massage I offer in my practice. As I’m always looking to be of service and helpful to more people, please let me know if I can help you or anyone else that you know who suffers from fibromyalgia. Feel free to contact me with any questions.