f you have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia fibrositis or generalized rheumatism,
no one needs to tell you of the almost daily muscle pain you live with, along
with constant fatigue, sleeplessness and low grade depression. Fibromyalgia
is commonly misdiagnosed and misunderstood and is the most common arthritis-related
disease next to osteoarthritis.
Fibromyalgia tends to affect healthy individuals, mostly women ages twenty to sixty. New research indicates that it may be more common in men and children than previously thought and strikes most often during the busiest and most stressful time of ones life. Patients will often tell of symptoms that make them feel as if they're 100 years old.
Fibromyalgia can cause signs and feelings similar to osteoarthritis, bursitis and tendinitis. Some specialists include it in the group of arthritis-related disorders. Unlike bursitis which is usually localized, the feeling of pain and stiffness associated with fibromyalgia is widespread. In fact, if a joint is warm or swollen or does not move properly, then there is probably another problem present.
Common symptoms of fibromyalgia are morning stiffness, headaches, disturbed sleep, localized areas of tenderness, depression, restless legs during sleep, sensitivity to cold, dry mouth, nose or eyes, irritable bowel/bladder and or poor memory/concentration. Massage therapy can be effectively used to decrease pain and stiffness andtherefore increase range of motion.
While there are many theories on what causes fibromyalgia, the truth remains unknown. Whatever the cause, the vicious cycle of pain and disturbed sleep leads to less activity, greater depression and more pain. This cycle can incapacitate the person for months and possibly years unless proper treatment is sought to control the symptoms.
Some effective lifestyle changes involve exercising daily for mobility and energy, decreasing stress in you life, practicing relaxation techniques, incorporating massage therapy and adopting a healthier diet.
Massage therapy is the best therapy for relieving muscle pain, spasm and stiffness by lengthening periods of remission and decreasing the frequency and severity of flare ups. In addition to this, the role of a massage therapist is also to act as a support person, providing information and encouragement.
As a primary health care provider, your massage therapist can educate you on how to prevent the loss of range of motion and muscle atrophy due to disease. They can also provide you with various ways to apply heat and discuss the benefits of deep massage as part of a consistent care plan.
Marilyn Webster is a registered massage therapist practicing at the Glebe Chiropractic Clinic located in Fifth Avenue Court. For more information, call 237-9000 or visit our website at www.glebechiropractic.com.