Finding Ways to Help Manage Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome with Massage Therapy

While fibromyalgia is most common in women, it is not exclusive to them. Men experience this condition as well, though they are often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

Fibromyalgia can impact your everyday life in more ways than one. It’s often a disabling condition that affects you physically, mentally, and emotionally. It can change how you interact with others, how you manage your daily routines, and at times, it can feel like it’s controlling your life.

It doesn’t just cause widespread pain. Fibromyalgia can also bring brain fog, fatigue, stiffness, swelling, dizziness, and other symptoms that make everyday tasks more difficult.

While fibromyalgia is most common in women, it is not exclusive to them. Men experience this condition as well, though they are often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

Some people may experience symptoms of fibromyalgia without even knowing it. Sometimes doctors don’t have a clear answer, and fibromyalgia is used as a general term when the cause of your symptoms isn’t fully understood. You might hear labels like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue while you’re still searching for answers. That’s why it’s important to find healthcare professionals who care, who are willing to go the extra mile to help you get an accurate diagnosis, and who understand fibromyalgia well. These professionals can not only assist with pain management but also guide you toward the right resources and care to support your overall health and well-being.

The causes of fibromyalgia aren’t fully understood, and research suggests multiple possibilities. Some studies suggest it may come from underdeveloped nerves during fetal development, while others link it to emotional or physical trauma. Fibromyalgia is also often associated with autoimmune conditions such as Lyme disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, or POTS. Other factors may include chemical and food sensitivities, environmental exposures like mold or toxic building syndrome, and even emerging concerns such as 5G exposure.

Fibromyalgia can also sometimes mimic symptoms of genetic or neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis. Additionally, connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may be part of the picture in some cases. It’s always important to rule out other conditions and get a thorough evaluation.

Sometimes vitamin deficiencies such as vitamin B12 or vitamin D3 can contribute to fatigue and worsen symptoms. For some people, IV vitamin therapy is used as a complementary option to replenish micronutrients when deficiency or absorption issues are present. Studies have found that subclinical B12 deficiency and low vitamin D levels are common among those diagnosed with fibromyalgia, and that correcting these deficiencies can sometimes improve fatigue, pain, and quality of life.

One of the things you can do to improve your quality of life is to incorporate massage therapy into your routine, along with other complementary approaches that can help manage your symptoms. Massage can help reduce muscle tension and fatigue, improve circulation, and open lymphatic pathways, which helps eliminate stagnant lymphatic fluid. This in turn can support overall health and wellness.

When you come in to receive a massage, we’ll work together to find a happy medium with pressure and technique that feels best for your body. Everyone is different, so we can try different approaches during your session to see what helps you the most. I also have a Chi Machine available, which provides gentle rocking movements to help stimulate lymphatic flow and relaxation.

Other complementary approaches include light stretching, gentle walking, using a rebounder if possible, or incorporating a vibration plate to stimulate the lymphatic system. Sometimes using gua sha or gentle sensory techniques can help desensitize overactive nerves and reduce hypersensitivity. Heating pads, warm baths, acupuncture, physical therapy in some cases, osteopathic chiropractic care, and analgesic pain relievers or creams can also be helpful.

Techniques like craniosacral therapy and myofascial release, hot bamboo, hot stones, reflexology, and scalp massage can provide additional relief. Many people enjoy hot stones, and if you can tolerate them, they can be very soothing. Essential oils such as lavender, rosemary, or copaiba can also be added to sessions to support relaxation and pain management.

There are also other therapies that may help, depending on your needs. Cryotherapy can reduce inflammation, hyperbaric oxygen chambers can support healing, magnesium float therapy can help relieve pain, and infrared saunas may improve circulation and reduce muscle tension. Wearing compression garments can help with swelling and over active nerves. Researching different approaches and finding what works for your body is key.

Light exercise, such as walking and gentle stretching, can also help relieve tightness and stiffness over time. Having a strong support system of family and friends who understand what you’re going through can make a big difference in managing daily life and maintaining emotional well-being.

I’ve lived with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue myself, so I understand how challenging it can be. There are many ways to support your health, and massage can be a powerful tool to help you feel better. If you have questions or want guidance, reach out. I’m happy to help.

With care and Support,

Suzan (Susan) Walker LMT

References

1. Jahan, F., Nanji, K., Qidwai, W., & Qasim, R. (2012). Fibromyalgia Syndrome: An Overview of Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Management. Oman Medical Journal, 27(3), 192–195. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3374688/

2. Neel, D. V., et al. (2022). Association between Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study. Journal of Pain Research, 15, 2131–2139. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9352804/

3. Ecemis, G. C., & Atalay, A. (2022). The Effect of Vitamin B12 Treatment on Fibromyalgia Symptoms and Quality of Life: A Randomized Controlled Study. Clinical Rheumatology, 41(8), 2477–2485. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9434892/

4. Knutsen, K. V., et al. (2017). Fibromyalgia and Vitamin D Deficiency: A Meta-Analysis. Pain Physician Journal, 20(7), 497–511. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5665736/

5. Field, T. (2014). Massage Therapy Research Review. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 20(4), 224–229. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24586677/

6. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). Massage Therapy: What You Need To Know. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/massage-therapy-what-you-need-to-know

Massage therapy is not a substitution for medical treatment. The massage therapist cannot diagnose, treat or prevent disease. The therapist can only recommend products and services. Please consult a medical physician for further treatment.​

Copyright © 2007-2027. Connective Integration Massage Therapy by Suzan Walker, LMT. All rights reserved. DMCA Protected. Suzan (Susan) Walker TX LIC#MT104431