Massage for Fibromyalgia Blog

I am passionate about the therapeutic effects and benefits of therapies, in which we never stop learning about. I enjoy researching specific conditions that clients may present with, as it is in my professional interest. We are all unique, clients will attend with a variety conditions, no two people being the same, some may also experience complex medical issues too.

Fibromyalgia also called fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is still not fully understood, I understand it as a long-term musculoskeletal that causes pain all over the body. As well as widespread pain, people with fibromyalgia may also have increased sensitivity to pain, fatigue, muscle stiffness, sleep problems, memory and concentration problems, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and headaches. (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/fibromyalgia/)

Treatments for fibromyalgia tries to ease some of these problems and improve quality of life, but there's currently no cure. Your GP will help in your treatment and care options, they may even involve a rheumatologist, neurologist, psychologist or physiotherapist, but as there as so many symptoms, there is no single treatment to work for all. You may need to take several different types of medication for fibromyalgia, as well, there are other treatment options and alternative therapies to help cope with the pain of fibromyalgia.

As I am qualified with a Complementary Medicine Degree (from 2012), I practice a variety of massage treatments ideally suited to helping clients feel relaxed and less stressed, allowing them to cope with their condition better. Many people with fibromyalgia will benefit from massage and aromatherapy, as well they could consider manipulation or acupuncture too, as all these alternative therapies have their benefits.

I specialise in Aromatherapy massage, Indian Head Massage and Thai Massage, as well as Reflexology, Foot Healthcare and Beauty Treatments. For Fibromyalgia syndrome the benefits of massage are well documented to be physical, emotional and mental, and I particularly suggest aromatherapy massage using Lavender, as this essential oil is known to reduce stress and allow the release of negative thoughts, with a profound softening effect upon the mind.

Emotional Benefits:

  • Reduces anxiety
  • Enhances self image
  • Feeling of wellbeing
  • Nurtures and stimulates emotional growth

Mental Benefits:

  • Reduces mental stress
  • Promotes sleep
  • Improves productivity

Physical Benefits:

  • Reduces chronic pain
  • Relaxes the body
  • Lowers blood pressure
  • Reduces heart rate
  • Slows breathing
  • Stretches connective tissue
  • Improves red blood cell numbers
  • Speeds recovery from injury
  • Reduces tension headaches

(Adapted from www.thebvispa.com)

It is so important that you get the help and support that you need to manage fibromyalgia, and as you can see, massage holds so many of the benefits for the more typical symptoms. I totally recommend trying various treatments to find what works for you as an individual!

Here are a few other ways in which people may manage -

  • Turmeric supplementation
  • Acupuncture
  • Magnetic Health Jewellery
  • Yoga
  • Bioresonance
  • CBD oil
  • Reiki
  • Mindfulness
  • Support Groups

Lynsey McCabe BSc, MFHT

Bliss Holistics

Complementary Therapist at Beehive Healthcare.