Fibromyalgia and Complementary Therapies
Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a long-term condition which causes all-over body pain, often alongside other symptoms such as muscle and joint stiffness, extreme fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. At present there’s no cure for Fibromyalgia, however treatments may assist in the relief of some of the symptoms.
In this blog we’ll be looking at complementary therapies which may assist in making Fibromyalgia easier to live with. [1]
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a holistic therapy, meaning Practitioners look at the client as a whole entity taking into account physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.
This ‘holistic’ approach may be beneficial when supporting clients with Fibromyalgia symptoms as sessions can address relaxation, and stress issues as well as supporting the short-term relief of associated pain such as headaches, and neck and lower back pain. [2]
Pilates
Exercising can be tough and daunting if you’re living with Fibromyalgia, due to chronic fatigue and muscle and joint stiffness.
If you are struggling with FMS but feel exercise could be beneficial, Pilates may be a good starting point as it is a low-impact exercise that’s ideal for helping strengthen muscles without over-exerting the body. [3]
The NHS website currently offers a selection of free online video tutorials, for those wanting to exercise but struggling with differing issues – including ‘Pilates with MS and fibromyalgia (Level: Beginner)’. Head over to https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-fitness-studio/ms-and-fibromyalgia-pilates-exercise-video/ to find out more.
If you are looking for a more personalised experience; 1-1 or 1-2 Pilates Sessions are available in our dedicated Reformer Pilates Studio, each session is tailored for the individual to help you achieve your exercise goals in a safe and supportive way. Please remember to consult your Doctor or Specialist before embarking on any new exercise regime.
Osteopathy
Osteopathy is the diagnosis and treatment of the structure and function of the neuro-musculo-skeletal system, this includes joints, muscles, ligaments, which can all be affected by Fibromyalgia.
Osteopathy aims to support the restoration of functional health via manipulation, articulations, gentle movement of soft tissue and cranial osteopathy techniques and may be beneficial to FMS sufferers who are struggling with reduced range of movement and associated pain. [4]
Massage
Massage is well-known for its relaxation benefits and for reducing stress, but in addition to offering emotional and wellbeing support to Fibromyalgia sufferers, it may also support the physical symptoms.
Using gentle manipulation and a combination of strokes, massage seeks to encourage blood flow, which in turn may help the muscles to release tension, encourage lymph drainage and assist with short-term pain relief. [5]
FMS sufferers can be sensitive to touch, so massage treatments can focus or avoid particular areas of the body, and hands on pressure adjusted to suit individual needs.
Talking Therapies
Being diagnosed with any long-term condition such as Fibromyalgia may mean a change to your emotional wellbeing as well as your physical health. If you’re struggling Counselling or Hypnotherapy may be beneficial to help you navigate your way through any difficulties and assist you to learn coping strategies.
There’s more information on Fibromyalgia on the NHS website. If you suspect you may be suffering with FMS, we recommend making an appointment to see your Doctor before seeking alternative therapies. All of the treatments we offer are complementary to the work of the NHS, if you have been diagnosed with FMS we advise consulting your GP or Specialist before trying a new therapy.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/fibromyalgia/
If you have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and wish to find out more about any of the above therapies please contact us on 01332 521 270 or via [email protected].
Links and Resources:
[1] Fibromyalgia UK, Medical Pack - Alternative therapies https://www.fmauk.org/information-packs-mainmenu-58/medical-pack-mainmenu-59?showall=&start=11
[2] British Acupuncture Council -https://www.acupuncture.org.uk/a-to-z-of-conditions/a-to-z-of-conditions/1188-fibromyalgia.html
ASA Health: Acupuncture -https://www.asa.org.uk/advice-online/health-acupuncture.html#Anchor%203
[3] Fibromyalgia Research UK -https://www.fibromyalgiaresearchuk.com/how-pilates-can-help-fibromyalgia
[4] Article: An Osteopathic Approach to Fibromyalgia
https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/pain/myofascial/fibromyalgia/osteopathic-approach-fibromyalgia
GOsC-ASA-CAP guidance for osteopaths -https://www.osteopathy.org.uk/news-and-resources/document-library/practice-guidance/gosc-asa-cap-guidance-for-osteopaths/
[5] Massage Therapy for Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3930706/
Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) Information - Facing Fibromyalgia | Massage Information Sheet
https://www.fht.org.uk/system/files/field/article-files/int.winter2019.36jing.pdf
