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How Massage Therapy Helps Soothe the Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

  • Writer: Lauren Walker
    Lauren Walker
  • Jul 26
  • 3 min read

Fibromyalgia is a complex, often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by chronic, widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and heightened sensitivity to touch, it can take a serious toll on quality of life. While there’s no known cure, one treatment that consistently provides relief for many is massage therapy.

In this post, we’ll explore how massage can ease fibromyalgia symptoms, what techniques are most effective, and what to expect during a session.


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What Is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder believed to be related to how the brain and nervous system process pain signals. Common symptoms include:

  • Widespread musculoskeletal pain

  • Tender points on the body

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Sleep issues

  • Brain fog ("fibro fog")

  • Anxiety or depression


Because the symptoms vary and mimic other conditions, fibromyalgia is notoriously difficult to diagnose and treat.


How Massage Therapy Helps

Massage therapy is not a cure for fibromyalgia, but it can significantly improve day-to-day symptoms and enhance quality of life. Here's how:


1. Reduces Muscle Tension and Pain

Gentle massage techniques help loosen tight muscles and reduce painful knots and trigger points. This is especially important for fibromyalgia sufferers, whose muscles often remain in a state of tension and hypersensitivity.


2. Improves Sleep Quality

Massage has been shown to boost serotonin and decrease cortisol, which supports better sleep. Improved sleep helps reduce fatigue, which in turn can ease pain perception.


3. Increases Circulation

Improved blood flow helps deliver nutrients to tissues and remove metabolic waste, which may ease inflammation and decrease pain sensitivity.


4. Lowers Stress and Anxiety

Massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress hormones. Since stress and fibromyalgia symptoms often fuel each other, this can create a positive feedback loop of relief.


5. Enhances Mood

Through the release of endorphins and the reduction of physical tension, massage can help combat depression, anxiety, and the emotional toll of chronic illness.


Best Massage Techniques for Fibromyalgia

People with fibromyalgia often have heightened pain sensitivity, so gentle and mindful techniques work best. These include:

🔹 Swedish Massage

Light to moderate pressure helps soothe muscles and promote relaxation without overstimulating the nervous system.

🔹 Myofascial Release

This technique gently targets connective tissue (fascia) restrictions, which can be a source of chronic pain in fibromyalgia patients.

🔹 Lymphatic Drainage

A very light massage designed to help move lymph fluid and reduce inflammation and fatigue—ideal for people with fibromyalgia experiencing swelling or heaviness.

🔹 Craniosacral Therapy

A gentle, hands-on method that focuses on the skull and spine to calm the nervous system and relieve pain.

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What to Expect During a Fibromyalgia Massage

If you have fibromyalgia, your massage therapist should:

  • Tailor pressure carefully to your sensitivity levels

  • Check in often about comfort and pain

  • Avoid aggressive deep tissue work unless specifically tolerated

  • Offer a relaxing, low-stimulus environment


Many people with fibromyalgia report feeling sore after a massage—this is common and usually fades within 24-48 hours. Drinking water and resting afterward can help minimize post-massage soreness.


Massage as Part of a Holistic Management Plan

Massage works best when it’s part of a broader treatment strategy, which may include:

  • Gentle exercise (like yoga or walking)

  • Medication (as prescribed by a healthcare provider)

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

  • Stress management and mindfulness techniques

  • Nutritional support

It’s always wise to consult your doctor before starting massage therapy, especially if you have other chronic conditions or are on medications that affect circulation or sensation.

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Final Thoughts

Living with fibromyalgia can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Massage therapy offers a compassionate, hands-on approach that addresses not just the physical pain, but the emotional and mental strain that often accompanies chronic illness. With the right therapist and treatment plan, massage can be a powerful ally in helping you feel more like yourself again.


Are you or someone you know living with fibromyalgia? Regular massage may be worth exploring. Start by talking to a licensed massage therapist with experience in chronic pain conditions.


Relish Well-ness to the Core with our Relaxing Massage Sessions: Wellness Rituals offers effective alternative healing therapies such as Thai Yoga Massage or our Table Top Stretch Sessions. This unique healing therapy incorporates Yoga, pressure points, and reflexology, aiming to reduce body fatigue.


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