Physical Therapy and Fibromyalgia
Physical therapy has been proven to help reduce the symptoms of fibromyalgia, making it a viable treatment option for those living with this condition. “According to the American Physical Therapy Association, physical therapists teach self-management skills to people with all types of conditions, including fibromyalgia. Physical therapists can show people with fibromyalgia how to relieve symptoms of pain and stiffness in everyday life. These health care professionals teach people with fibromyalgia how to build strength and improve their range of motion. They show them ways to get relief from deep muscle pain. And they can help people with fibromyalgia learn how to make sensible decisions about daily activities that will help prevent painful flare-ups.” https://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/guide/fibromyalgia-and-physical-therapy
Physical therapy involves using specialized techniques to reduce pain, improve mobility, and increase strength. This treatment can be used to help with the symptoms of fibromyalgia, especially the chronic pain that is associated with this condition. Physical therapists use a variety of techniques, including massage, stretching, and strengthening exercises, to help reduce pain and improve mobility.
The physical therapist may use different types of tools with fibromyalgia patients including:
deep tissue massage
low-impact aerobic conditioning (water aerobics)
pain relief exercise
stretching and strengthening exercises
TENS units (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)
Ultrasound https://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/guide/fibromyalgia-and-physical-therapy
Massage therapy has been shown to be useful in managing the pain associated with fibromyalgia. It involves using gentle strokes, kneading, and pressure to loosen and relax the muscles. This can help reduce the pain associated with fibromyalgia and can also help improve the range of motion and flexibility in the joints.
Stretching exercises can also be used to help reduce pain and improve flexibility. Stretching can help increase the range of motion in the joints, which can help reduce the pain associated with fibromyalgia. Strengthening exercises can also help improve strength and reduce the risk of injury.
A physical therapist can also provide education about self-care and lifestyle modifications that can further reduce the symptoms of fibromyalgia. These may include stress reduction techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, as well as dietary changes.
Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for those living with fibromyalgia, as it can help manage pain, improve mobility, and increase strength. It can also help with other symptoms associated with this condition, such as cognitive difficulties, headaches, and irritable bowel syndrome. It is important to consult with a medical professional before starting a physical therapy program, as they can provide personalized advice and guidance.
My experience with physical therapy to manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia was not a positive one. I had been dealing with chronic pain and fatigue for several months, and my doctor recommended that I try physical therapy as a treatment option. I was hopeful that physical therapy could help me manage my symptoms, but unfortunately, this was not the case.
The physical therapist I saw was not familiar with fibromyalgia and did not understand the unique needs of those living with this condition. The techniques they used were too aggressive and caused intense pain. I ended up feeling worse after each session and eventually stopped going altogether.
I later sought out a physical therapist who was an expert in managing fibromyalgia. They took the time to understand my condition and tailored a treatment plan that worked specifically for me. The techniques they used were gentle and effective, and I noticed an improvement in my symptoms after just a few sessions. I am glad I persevered and found a physical therapist who was knowledgeable about fibromyalgia and tailored a treatment plan that worked specifically for me.