bleitnerlmt
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- Feb 26, 2015
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As a licensed massage therapist I have seen many clients who have exhibited symptoms or have been diagnosed with either Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue. It has been my experience that the benefits of massage will differ at each visit dependent on the way my client feels that day. In general however there are a few things that are really important for every visit and for anyone considering massage as a part of their treatment plan.
Make sure that you communicate with your therapist and that they understand your diagnosis and how you are affected by it. Try to have a conversation with them prior to coming in for your appointment and see if you get a "good vibe". If your energies don't match, your session may not be successful.
Timing of your appointment is really important - you know your body and your "best time". Schedule sessions when you are feeling at your best - you are more likely to be on time for the appointment and be in a position to gain maximum benefit.
From my perspective as a therapist, the predominant issues presented with fibromyalgia clients are
1. Acceptance of the chronic nature of the condition
2. Constant pain
3. Depression
4. Fatigue
5. Weather related flare ups
6. Stress related flare ups
Each of these categories can be positively impacted through therapeutic touch and various modalities of massage. The relationship between the therapist and client is paramount - trust and honesty is the foundation for sessions to be successful.
Your massage sessions will provide short term relief however it is very real relief.
Swedish Massage (general light to moderate pressure full body massage will increase circulation bringing oxygenated blood to muscles and tissues as well as increasing lymphatic drainage throughout the body). This method of massage is a good introductory modality and one that can be used safely at any stage and will provide benefits both physically and psychologically.
Therapeutic Touch is a light modality of massage that focuses on grounding, relaxation and breath. It will allow a deep level of relaxation restorative for those who have disrupted sleep patterns.
Myosfacial Release is a modality often used to encourage tight constricted muscles to relax, elongate and return to their original state. This method of massage is often used with clients with fibromyalgia due to the contraction of muscle due to the disease in addition to postural causes.
Stimulation massage techniques may be used for those who are suffering the effects of chronic fatigue and mild to moderate depression. This modality is beneficial as it "wakes up" sensory neurons, however it may not be an appropriate method during a flare up if you are sensitive to touch.
Stretching & Range of Motion (ROM) With passive and active stretching techniques you will work with your therapist to open up and stretch joints and large muscle groups. Gentle passive stretches are typically easily tolerated and provide immediate relief as joints are opened up. Active and resisted stretches require the client to participate in contracting certain muscles and resisting against tension by the therapist. This modality will help to increase range of motion and muscle strength.
I know I have included a lot of information in this post so if there is anything I missed or you would like more information on, please let me know and I can address it separately.
I would love to know if this post was helpful to you and in what way. I would also love any feedback on what types of massage you have received and how it benefited you or if you had a bad experience with massage as a treatment option and why.
Thanks so much for taking the time.
Make sure that you communicate with your therapist and that they understand your diagnosis and how you are affected by it. Try to have a conversation with them prior to coming in for your appointment and see if you get a "good vibe". If your energies don't match, your session may not be successful.
Timing of your appointment is really important - you know your body and your "best time". Schedule sessions when you are feeling at your best - you are more likely to be on time for the appointment and be in a position to gain maximum benefit.
From my perspective as a therapist, the predominant issues presented with fibromyalgia clients are
1. Acceptance of the chronic nature of the condition
2. Constant pain
3. Depression
4. Fatigue
5. Weather related flare ups
6. Stress related flare ups
Each of these categories can be positively impacted through therapeutic touch and various modalities of massage. The relationship between the therapist and client is paramount - trust and honesty is the foundation for sessions to be successful.
Your massage sessions will provide short term relief however it is very real relief.
Swedish Massage (general light to moderate pressure full body massage will increase circulation bringing oxygenated blood to muscles and tissues as well as increasing lymphatic drainage throughout the body). This method of massage is a good introductory modality and one that can be used safely at any stage and will provide benefits both physically and psychologically.
Therapeutic Touch is a light modality of massage that focuses on grounding, relaxation and breath. It will allow a deep level of relaxation restorative for those who have disrupted sleep patterns.
Myosfacial Release is a modality often used to encourage tight constricted muscles to relax, elongate and return to their original state. This method of massage is often used with clients with fibromyalgia due to the contraction of muscle due to the disease in addition to postural causes.
Stimulation massage techniques may be used for those who are suffering the effects of chronic fatigue and mild to moderate depression. This modality is beneficial as it "wakes up" sensory neurons, however it may not be an appropriate method during a flare up if you are sensitive to touch.
Stretching & Range of Motion (ROM) With passive and active stretching techniques you will work with your therapist to open up and stretch joints and large muscle groups. Gentle passive stretches are typically easily tolerated and provide immediate relief as joints are opened up. Active and resisted stretches require the client to participate in contracting certain muscles and resisting against tension by the therapist. This modality will help to increase range of motion and muscle strength.
I know I have included a lot of information in this post so if there is anything I missed or you would like more information on, please let me know and I can address it separately.
I would love to know if this post was helpful to you and in what way. I would also love any feedback on what types of massage you have received and how it benefited you or if you had a bad experience with massage as a treatment option and why.
Thanks so much for taking the time.