Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and heightened sensitivity to pressure. Given that sports massage is typically associated with athletes and performance enhancement, some may wonder if it can be beneficial for individuals with fibromyalgia. The answer is yes: sports massage, when adapted to the needs of a fibromyalgia patient, can offer a range of benefits, including pain relief, improved mobility, and reduced stress.

Through experiences, I know that it is crucial to adjust the intensity and techniques of sports massage for those with fibromyalgia, as they tend to have increased sensitivity to pressure and touch.

Here’s a closer look at how sports massage can help individuals with fibromyalgia:

  1. Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation

People with fibromyalgia often experience chronic pain and muscle tension. A sports massage therapist can help alleviate these symptoms through several mechanisms:

  • Reducing Muscle Tension: By applying gentle pressure and stretching muscles, sports massage will release tight areas, improving flexibility and easing tension. Techniques like effleurage (light, sweeping strokes) and myofascial release (targeting the connective tissues) are particularly effective for individuals with fibromyalgia.
  • Trigger Point Therapy: Many fibromyalgia patients have tender points, which can be exacerbated by muscle knots or trigger points. Sports massage carefully targets these points, relieving localised pain and preventing the spread of discomfort.
  • Improving Blood Flow: Sports massage increases circulation, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to tissues while removing waste products. This improves circulation and helps reduce the inflammation that often accompanies fibromyalgia pain.
  1. Easing Fatigue and Promoting Better Sleep

Fibromyalgia is often linked to severe fatigue and poor sleep quality. Sports massage can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and helping to counter the sympathetic nervous system response, which is responsible for the body’s “fight or flight” reaction. By encouraging the parasympathetic system, sports massage helps to:

  • Reduce Cortisol Levels: Cortisol is the body’s stress hormone, which tends to be elevated in fibromyalgia sufferers. Massage therapy has been shown to lower cortisol levels, which in turn helps to improve sleep and reduce fatigue.
  • Promote Serotonin Production: Massage increases the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating sleep, mood, and pain perception. Higher serotonin levels can help alleviate some of the sleep disturbances common in fibromyalgia.
  1. Improving Range of Motion and Mobility

Fibromyalgia often causes joint stiffness and reduced range of motion, which can affect daily activities. Sports massage helps:

  • Increase Joint Flexibility: Gentle mobilisation techniques increase range of motion by stretching and loosening tight muscles and connective tissues around the joints.
  • Improve Muscle Elasticity: Massage therapy helps maintain and improve muscle elasticity, reducing the stiffness that often limits mobility.
  1. Reducing Anxiety and Depression

Chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia may take a toll on mental health, often leading to anxiety and depression. Sports massage, with its focus on both physical and emotional well-being, can help:

  • Lower Anxiety Levels: The relaxing effects of massage reduce the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, which in turn eases anxiety and promotes a calmer state of mind.
  • Boost Mood: Massage triggers the release of dopamine and serotonin, both of which improve mood and help reduce symptoms of depression. The increased release of these “feel-good” neurotransmitters offers mental and emotional relief to individuals with fibromyalgia.
  1. Customised Approach for Fibromyalgia

While traditional sports massage techniques may focus on deep tissue manipulation and vigorous muscle work, individuals with fibromyalgia require a modified approach. As an experienced therapist working with fibromyalgia patients, I will adjust the intensity of the massage to avoid causing discomfort or flare-ups. These include:

  • Lighter Pressure: Fibromyalgia patients have heightened sensitivity to touch, so a lighter, more soothing approach is often preferred over deep tissue work. The pressure is gradually increased based on the individual’s comfort level.
  • Gentle Techniques: Techniques like light stroke, kneading, and myofascial release (stretching the fascia) are often more suitable than aggressive techniques that could overstimulate the nervous system.
  1. Regular Sessions for Long-Term Benefits

One-off massage sessions can offer temporary relief, but for individuals with fibromyalgia, the benefits are cumulative. Regular massage therapy can:

  • Maintain Muscle Relaxation: Regular sessions help manage chronic muscle tension and prevent the build-up of pain and stiffness.
  • Promote Better Sleep Patterns: Although, sadly, this is person-dependant, consistent massage can help regulate the body’s stress response and support better sleep over time, which is crucial for managing fibromyalgia symptoms.
  • Alleviate Chronic Pain: Over time, regular massage should contribute to long-term pain reduction and improved mobility, enhancing overall quality of life.

Conclusion

Sports massage, when adapted to the needs of fibromyalgia patients, can be a valuable tool for managing the chronic pain, stiffness, fatigue, and emotional symptoms associated with the condition. By improving circulation, reducing muscle tension, promoting relaxation, and helping regulate the nervous system, sports massage can provide relief and improve the daily functioning of individuals living with fibromyalgia.

However, it is essential to consult with me, as a massage therapist who understands the unique needs of each fibromyalgia sufferer to ensure that the treatment is effective and comfortable. Your constant feedback throughout a session is encouraged. Together we will find the best possible technique or techniques that best support your needs, as every person who struggles with FMS struggles differently.

If you require any further information or if you would like to book an appointment to see me then please contact me, Sports massage Reigate. I offer therapy either in the comfort of your home or in the Reigate Natural Health clinic on Alma Road in Reigate. Please use my contacts page to be in touch.