Fibromyalgia & Sports Massage in Southampton

Fibromyalgia was first recognised in 1816 when J Balfour described chronic pain with tender points and fatigue. In 1976 biopsies showed no inflammation in those tender points, the first time the term fibromyalgia was coined - translated as fibre muscle pain. It is important to note that the criteria for diagnosing fibromyalgia is still under review.

Fibromyalgia includes pain, stiffness, fatigue and sleep disorders.

A widely accepted definition of fibromyalgia is that it is a neurosensory disorder - the central nervous system experiences abnormalities when processing pain.  However this definition is under challenge as changes within the peripheral nervous system can be problematic for those who have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. This means the fibromyalgia is experienced beyond the central nervous system.

The impact of the condition is all encompassing meaning that treatment will need to be all encompassing too, reaching beyond just physical symptoms to consider mental health and the sufferers environment.

Fibromyalgia pain can become a defining part of the sufferer - it's not something you have but who you are. This can mean that being able to put it to one side even in the face of improvement can be difficult and may mean that massage is not a standalone treatment for fibromyalgia. Learning how to feel when pain is no longer experienced is part of the journey. Other therapies that can help include hypnotherapy, naturopathy, Ayurveda, yoga, breathwork and psychology.

People who suffer with fibromyalgia will often feel dismissed by more traditional health care providers. I will always listen and be fully present during a treatment, holding space for you during our time together.  I understand that you will have previously felt unheard and so I will always listen when told that pressure is too much, too light or painful. I also understand that your needs will vary from session to session - what was good last time may be too much pressure this time. Our communication will be paramount, please let me know how you are feeling.

I understand that if you suffer with fibromyalgia the idea of exercise may be scary for fear of a flare up, but I can help to introduce safe movement through gentle stretching during a treatment. I can then show you similar ways to replicate those actions on your own. This will help you to deal with stiffness between treatments, promote selfcare and help you to manage your condition.

Massage can be very effective in helping you to cope with fibromyalgia.

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