Fibromyalgia- what is it and how can massage help?
- Emily Brown
- Oct 24
- 2 min read
Fibromyalgia is a complex condition that affects millions of people, causing widespread pain, fatigue, and sensitivity. If you or someone you know struggles with fibromyalgia, you understand how unpredictable it can be—some days are manageable, while others feel overwhelming.
The good news? Massage therapy can be a powerful tool in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
To learn more, read on, and check out this song we wrote about Fibromyalgia:
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the nervous system, amplifying the way the body processes pain signals. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood,
it's often linked to stress, trauma, infections, and genetic factors.
Common symptoms include:
🔹 Widespread muscle pain and tenderness
🔹 Fatigue and poor sleep quality
🔹 Brain fog (difficulty concentrating)
🔹 Sensitivity to touch, noise, and temperature
🔹 Stiffness, especially in the morning
Since fibromyalgia affects the nervous system, many treatments focus on calming the body’s overactive pain response—which is where massage therapy can help
How Massage Can Help Fibromyalgia
Massage doesn’t "cure" fibromyalgia, but it reduces pain and improves well-being by:
✔ Easing Muscle Tension – Gentle pressure helps relax tight muscles, improving circulation and reducing stiffness.
✔ Lowering Stress & Anxiety – Many fibromyalgia patients have higher stress levels, which can worsen symptoms. Massage helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation.
✔ Improving Sleep Quality – A good massage session can lead to deeper, more restful sleep, which is often a struggle for those with fibromyalgia.
✔ Reducing Nerve Sensitivity – Light touch techniques can desensitize overactive nerve endings, making everyday movements feel less painful.
Finding the Right Type of Massage
Because fibromyalgia can make the body more sensitive to touch, it’s important to work with a therapist who understands the condition. Lighter techniques like Swedish massage, myofascial release, and craniosacral therapy tend to be more beneficial than deep pressure.
At Jazz Hands, we take a gentle, tailored approach to help ease discomfort without overwhelming the body. If you’ve been hesitant about trying massage because of fibromyalgia, we’d love to create a customized session that works for you.
Ready to Feel Better?
If you're dealing with fibromyalgia and looking for relief, let’s talk. Book a session with us, and we’ll work together to find the right pressure, techniques, and approach to help you feel your best.
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