Massage Benefits for Fibromyalgia Sufferers

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain. Symptoms may include fatigue, joint stiffness, muscle spasms and twitching, weakness in the limbs and nerve pain. The pain can range from an aching tenderness to severe discomfort. It is estimated that fibromyalgia affects 2-8% of the world population, with the disease most prevalent in females, though it can also affect men and children. Unfortunately, fibromyalgia is often misdiagnosed and is frequently associated with depression and anxiety. It was not until 1987 that the American Medical Association recognized fibromyalgia as a "legitimate" disease and a cause of disability.

Since there is no known cure for fibromyalgia, many who suffer from this condition have turned to massage therapy to help relieve their often debilitating symptoms. The results have been encouraging with massage therapy being recognized as the most effective (non-drug) treatment for the pain and dysfunction of fibromyalgia. Massage therapy works at the cellular level to reduce symptoms and stimulates health in the circulatory and myofascial (muscle and connective tissue) systems of the body, helping to improve circulation and assist in releasing toxins and waste products from the body. The physical pressure on the skin promotes the loosening of stiff muscles and connective tissue and breaks the tension, strain and pain cycle, which in turn reduces the inflammation and the associated neurological reactions. Massage therapy has also been demonstrated to help the body release certain chemicals in the brain that help individuals relax. aiding in better and longer sleep patterns.

The qualified therapists at Academy Massage are trained in the proper procedure to provide effective treatment to lessen the pain and discomfort of fibromyalgia. Through their skilled therapeutic methods it has been noted that after the first few massage sessions the fibromyalgia sufferer will start to experience significant results. However, Academy Massage recommends that massage for fibromyalgia be done in shorter, more frequent intervals, such as one half hour twice a week, instead of an hour-long session.