- Health advice
- Apr 17, 2013
Fibromyalgia is a chronic and debilitating syndrome that occurs predominantly in women of all ages and backgrounds.
Here are just some of the many symptoms
- Widespread Muscular Pain
- Overwhelming Fatigue
- Unrefreshing Sleep
- Depression & Anxiety
- Poor Memory & Concentration
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a Neuro-Endocrine Immune Disease. It involves neurotransmitter and hormonal imbalances, sleep disorders and the development of a predictable pattern of tender points in the muscles and other soft tissues. It is not known why people develop fibromyalgia. However, its onset can be triggered by a traumatic event, illness, hormonal changes, chemical sensitivities or a rheumatic illness. Fibromyalgia is diagnosed when other diseases have been ruled out, and when 11 active tender points are found distributed among all quadrants of the body, along with fatigue, morning stiffness, and poor quality sleep. These specific points of tenderness can occur all over the body but they are most numerous around the shoulders, chest, neck, elbow, hip and knee.Holistic Treatment Options for Fibromyalgia
Treatment for fibromyalgia depends on the individual's set of symptoms, but often takes a holistic approach. Herbal medicine, nutritional supplementation and massage can greatly improve symptoms of pain, fatigue and depression. Depending on the factors at play for the individual, strategies may involve stress reduction, exercise, improved nutrition, massage, hormonal balance and pain relief.Supplements that can help fibromyalgia sufferers include:
- Magnesium Needed for tired and painful muscles
- Turmeric Antioxidant Anti-inflammatory
- Withania Herb Tonic Immune balancer Improves quality of sleep
How can Massage Therapy help?
Massage therapy can effectively reduce the pain, stiffness, and tenderness caused by fibromyalgia syndrome, if done on a regular basis. It is theorised that massage therapy actually enhances the production of certain pain blockers, including endorphins and serotonin. These hormones work to counteract pain signals conducted by the brain.Benefits of Massage Therapy for Fibromyalgia Sufferers
Massage therapy is actually one of the most beneficial treatments for fibromyalgia pain and fatigue. Massage therapy benefits include:- increased blood circulation to the muscles, allowing for faster muscle repair
- increased flexibility
- increased range of motion
- decreased stress and depression
- reduced pain
- reduced stiffness
- improved sleep patterns