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Fybromyalgia & Massage Therapy
Those who suffer with the
symptoms of Fibromyalgia / Fibromyalgia Syndrome can often find some much needed relief with Massage
Therapy. In recent years, it has become popular among Fibromyalgia
patients who have experienced its many benefits – Massage Therapy works to reduce pain, reduce
overall tension and stiffness and encourages the individual to take some time for personal relaxation and rejuvenation.
In addition to the traditional
“hands on” techniques of Massage Therapy, often both Hot and Cold Therapies are used
to increase blood flow and relax muscles. Studies show that Massage Therapy
actually affects the central nervous system and enhances the production of pain blockers such as endorphins, serotonin and
norepinephrine – hormones that work to counteract the pain signals that are sent from the brain. This
is one reason it is considered to be one of the best treatment options for the Fibromyalgia symptoms
of pain and fatigue.
· Increased Blood Circulation to Muscles – Reduced Pain
·
Increased Flexibility & Range of Motion – Reduced Stiffness
·
Increased Relaxation – Reduced Stress & Tension
· Increased
Endorphins – Reduced Depression
· Improved Sleep Patterns – Reduced Sleep Disorders
There are a variety of different massage
modalities available – and the most commonly known are Swedish Massage and Deep
Tissue Massage. The following list provides some basic information of types of massage and
related therapies that you may find beneficial for relieving Fibromyalgia pain and fatigue.
· Swedish Massage is designed to increase the amount of oxygen that is
delivered to the muscles in order to help flush out toxins and improve the flexibility and health of your muscles.
Techniques include: long, gliding movements, kneading, tapping, vibration.
· Deep Tissue Massage is designed to loosen areas of hardened, bound and
inflexible muscles and tissue by targeting the deeper layers of muscles and tendons, helping to release tension and chronic
pain. Techniques include: slower, deeper strokes, pressure, cross-fiber friction.
· Myofascial Release Therapy is a gradual stretching and holding technique
that helps relieve restriction in the body’s fascia (a thin layer of tissue covering the muscles and organs), which
can be caused by pain – and also contributes to pain. Techniques include: static
pressure, slow stretching.
·
Reflexology is a therapeutic
technique wherein pressure and some massage is applied to specific points on the feet and/or the hands that correlate directly
to organs and to other locations in the body to effect relaxation, pain relief and healing. Techniques
include: static pressure, gliding movements.
· Reiki
is an ancient holistic healing method that utilizes the universal life force energy to bring balance
to the body and spirit, increasing relaxation and vitality, relieving pain and discomfort – and boosting overall health.
Techniques include: light touch, gentle hand placement.
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