Why Massage Works For Fibromyalgia Patients
Few medical conditions are as frustrating as fibromyalgia. Although there are medications that ease some of the symptoms, many of these medications cause unwanted side effects. Even on your good days, you may feel fatigued and exhausted. Increasingly, fibromyalgia patients are turning to massage as an alternative treatment option. Here are three reasons why massage works so well for patients with fibromyalgia.
Massage stimulates the release of serotonin.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is known for helping people feel relaxed and at ease. Although a deficiency in serotonin may not cause fibromyalgia, many people with fibromyalgia have low serotonin levels. Massage stimulates the release of serotonin, which helps patients feel less tense. Serotonin also boosts the mood, helping to fight the symptoms of depression that become more and more prevalent in patients who have had fibromyalgia for some time.
Massage promotes better sleep.
Many people with fibromyalgia have trouble sleeping. This may be in part due to their muscle pain and feelings of depression. When you do not get enough sleep, your symptoms tend to worsen, which only makes it even harder to get sleep on subsequent nights. Massage can help break this cycle of insomnia and discomfort. The serotonin that massage causes your body to release will help you get a better night's sleep. Massage also relaxes the muscles, and it is easier to sleep when you do not have serious muscle pain. In turn, the better sleep you get after a massage will help further ease your symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Massage encourages you to be more active.
When you do not have as much muscle pain and fatigue, you are likely to be more active. You may feel more like taking a walk or going to the gym the day after your massage treatment. Exercise strengthens your muscles, so you may feel less fatigued going forward. Exercise also stimulates the release of endorphins, also known as feel good hormones, which will further help to elevate your mood and fight depression symptoms. Light exercise like walking or swimming will keep you limber and loose between massage sessions.
If you are looking for a safe and non-invasive option for treating your fibromyalgia symptoms, reach out to a massage therapist in your area. Massage is safe to use in combination with most prescription drugs used to treat fibromyalgia; however, you should check with your doctor before getting a massage just to be safe. Contact a provider, such as Massage TJR Spa, for more help.