Using Massage Against Fibromyalgia

Posted on: 13 October 2017

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If you have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, you know just how debilitating and painful it can be. It can also be extremely difficult to explain the condition to others, many of whom may make snide comments that it's all in your head or you are being a hypochondriac. Oftentimes, fibromyalgia suffers experience this reaction to their condition because scientists have yet to definitively pinpoint the cause of the chronic muscle pain, fatigue, insomnia, and overall body aches. The working theory is that fibromyalgia results when your brain and spinal cord don't process nerve signals correctly.

Additionally, fibromyalgia is more common in women, and especially those who have been abused, suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. Hormonal imbalances and underlying conditions such as arthritis may also present concurrently. Because there is no known cause or cure yet, people can be insensitive.

While it may sound counterintuitive, exercise can improve the condition, as can massage. Here are three benefits that fibromyalgia sufferers may get from receiving regular massages:

Induce Sleep

Many people that suffer from fibromyalgia can sleep, yet upon awakening, still feel tired and sore as though they never slept at all. Getting a massage can be very relaxing. Some people even fall asleep while on the massage table! Schedule your massage appointment for as late in the day as possible so you can use this relaxation side effect to your advantage. The human body does cell repair best during sleep, and the better you sleep, the better you will feel.

Improve Mental Health

Because a massage is naturally physically relaxing, it can help relax your mind as well. Try to visual as your muscles are relaxing, so is your mind, the weight of the world on your shoulders and all your worries being rubbed away. Massage has also been found to release oxytocin, a "feel good" hormone. Many people, especially those who are single, go months or even years, without really having any physical contact with others. Just as a hug has been shown to release oxytocin, studies have shown that a massage can do the same. In turn, this will diminish stress, anxiety, and depression.

Improve Muscle Vitality

Simply put, sore muscles feel better when they are rubbed. A professional massage therapist has been trained to rub your muscles with a variety of strokes. Sometimes a deep tissue massage is best and other times a lighter touch is more suited. Either way, a regular massage could be one step towards increased overall health and wellness.

Contact a company like MASSAGE TJ SPA for more information and assistance.