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A therapist’s perspective on Fibromyalgia management

Whilst there is no known cause for Fibromyalgia, there is new research into treatments that can help the condition. Many clients with this condition feel frustrated and abandoned by the medical system, but there is hope as rehabilitation through lifestyle medicine can be effective.

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As a massage and craniosacral therapist, I have encountered numerous clients battling fibromyalgia, a complex and often misunderstood chronic pain condition.  Through my experiences, interactions and continuous research, I’ve gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by individuals living with fibromyalgia and the role of alternative therapies and exercise prescription can play in a treatment program.

Fibromyalgia is characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, sensitivity to touch, debilitating fatigue, sleep disturbances and brain fog.  It affects millions of people worldwide but more common in women aged 50-80 years old.  Its cause remains unknown, making diagnosis difficult, leading to frustration within the patient.  Many patients are often frustrated with the medical system and its inability to provide answers to the reason they are in pain.

In my practice, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact that fibromyalgia  can have on both physical and emotional wellbeing of my clients.  The constant pain and fatigue can be debilitating, affecting everything from their ability to work and socialise to their overall quality of life.  Many individuals with fibromyalgia also struggle with feelings of isolation and despair, as the invisible nature of this condition often leads to misunderstanding and skepticism from others. 

Hands on therapy:

This condition is attributed to abnormalities in the pain processing within the central nervous system, recent research suggests that heightened sensitivity of the peripheral nervous system may also play a pivotal role.  The nervous system serves as the body’s delicate communication network, transmitting signals between brain and body.  In individuals with fibromyalgia, this delicate balance of signalling can become disrupted, leading to an amplification of pain signals and an exaggerated response to stimuli that would typically be perceived as non-painful.  It is like a car alarm that has become over sensitive and reacts to just a feather landing on it.  Even gentle touch can trigger pain and discomfort which is why some massage techniques are not appropriate.  Craniosacral therapy, however can be so effective.  By gently manipulating the craniosacral system, which encompasses the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, this modality can help regulate the nervous system and alleviate pain and tension.

Exercise:

Another key component in our approach is to incorporate exercise into a rehabilitation program.  Regular exercise can reduce pain levels and improve pain tolerance.  Gentle forms of exercise such as walking, swimming, yoga and pilates can help alleviate muscle stiffness and tension.  Exercise can also stimulate the release of dopamine and endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.  Engaging in exercise, especially in the morning, can promote better quality sleep which is vital for healing.  Clients often report a deeper more restorative sleep leading to more energy and vitality.  

Chronic pain and fatigue can lead to muscle weakness and decreased mobility due to fear of movement.  Incorporating gentle strength training and flexibility exercises into their rehabilitation program can help improve muscle tone and joint mobility, making daily activities less taxing.

Stress management: 

Stress can often lead to flare-ups in pain.  Incorporating stress reducing techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, breathing exercises and physical exercise can be beneficial.  These help calm the nervous system, reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.  Exercise serves as a natural stress reliever, helping to reduce cortisol levels and promote relaxation.  I work closely with clients to develop personalised exercise plans that are tailored to their unique needs, preferences and limitations.  We start slowly, gradually increasing intensity and duration as tolerated.

Diet: Nutrition plays a significant role in managing fibromyalgia symptoms and general wellbeing.  Certain dietary factors such as inflammation and food sensitivities can make symptoms worse.  However a diet rich in whole, nutrient dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and support optimal immune function.  Additionally avoiding trigger foods such as sugar and ultra-processed foods can help alleviate symptoms.

In conclusion, fibromyalgia is a challenging condition that requires a multifaceted approach to rehabilitation.  As a therapist specialising in massage and craniosacral therapy, coupled with insights from exercise science and nutrition, I am honoured to play a role in supporting individuals on their journey to healing and empowerment.  By fostering compassion, understanding and collaboration, we can help individuals with fibromyalgia live a fuller, more vibrant life despite the challenges they face.