Fibromyalgia is a lifelong condition that affects millions of people and can cause chronic pain, fatigue, and cognitive issues. With no known cure, many people living with fibromyalgia turn to complementary treatments to help manage their symptoms. Massage is a popular alternative treatment due to its ability to reduce pain, reduce stress, and improve overall quality of life.
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia often affects women and people over 40, but can affect anybody – there are 4 million people in the United States currently living with it. The two most common symptoms are muscle pain and fatigue though some individuals may experience headaches, digestive issues, and bladder control issues. Additional symptoms can include memory and concentration issues (colloquially referred to as “fibro fog”), anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.
Unfortunately fibromyalgia has no cure, so symptom management is essential. Medical professionals often recommend a combination of treatments including pain medication, antidepressants, stress management, cognitive behavioral therapy, sleep therapy, and exercise.
Can Massage Help Fibromyalgia?
Massage therapy is often cited as a solution for chronic pain and lowering stress in the typical population. But can massage therapy help people suffering from fibromyalgia? Yes! Many people use massage therapy to help manage symptoms of fibromyalgia, and some recent scientific studies have shown that massage therapy improves the quality of life for its sufferers:
- Pain reduction and quality of life improvement: A 2024 study of thrice weekly massages for six weeks showed significantly reduced pain, and also had benefits on quality of life and biopsychosocial status.
- Reduced stress and improved quality of life: A 2017 study showed decreases in pain after a twice-weekly massage routine for three months. This study also showed less perceived stress and improvement in quality of life, but showed no difference in circadian cortisol.
- Pain and anxiety reduction: A systemic review conducted in 2014 reported that massage therapy reduces pain, anxiety, and depression, but has limited effects on sleep duration or quality.
- Enhanced sleep: A 2002 study whose participants received twice weekly massages for 5 weeks observed an increase in the number of sleep hours and a decrease in sleep movements, in addition to lower pain levels, decreased anxiety, and lessening of depression symptoms.
While science explores the mechanisms behind these effects, many individuals have anecdotally reported that Swedish massage and myofascial release are especially effective for fibromyalgia relief, owing to their gentle, relaxation-focused techniques. Other complementary therapies like yoga, acupuncture, warm baths, diet changes, gentle exercise, and mental health counseling are also commonly used to manage fibromyalgia symptoms.
Tips for Getting the Best Massage for Fibromyalgia
For people with fibromyalgia, receiving a massage can be intimidating, as there is a risk that the massage could cause a flareup of symptoms. Here are some tips to help maximize the benefits of massage therapy:
Communication is Key
Before the massage starts, let your massage therapist know about your condition, your current pain tolerance level, and any particular pain points, so they’re not flying blind. Stay in communication with the therapist throughout the massage, and they will be receptive and accommodating—their job, after all, is to help you feel your best!
Start Slowly
Have your therapist start with gentle techniques and light pressure, increasing intensity as your comfort level allows. Again, communication is paramount!
Try Shorter and More Frequent Sessions
Fibromyalgia symptoms seem to respond better to shorter, but more frequent sessions. This frequency can be up to 1-2 times per week.
Choose the Best Massage Type for You
Swedish and sleep massage are well-known for their relaxing nature and lighter pressure. Some people also report benefits from myofascial release, which may help address chronic pain due to fascia.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that impacts every aspect of a person’s life, but complementary therapies like massage can offer symptom relief and improved quality of life. You can enjoy a 60-minute Sleep Massage or Swedish massage without even leaving home – Zeel will come to you! Although massage is not a cure, it can be a powerful component of your fibromyalgia treatment plan.