Fibromyalgia is a chronic idiopathic pain condition that affects muscles and joints. There is no obvious trigger but symptoms often begin following physical or emotional trauma. Symptoms can include fatigue, widespread pain at multiple anatomical sites, extreme sensitivity, poor sleep quality and cognitive problems often referred to as brain-fog.
Patients often look well and the symptoms share similar pathophysiologic mechanisms that are found in other conditions, such as chronic fatigue and irritable bowel syndrome. Symptoms are characterised by medically unexplained fatigue, widespread sensitised pain pathways, autonomic dysfunction, stress and effort intolerance.
Massage treatments can help reduce stress levels and decrease pain giving an overall result of improvement in the patient. Exercise is encouraged, although introduced gradually. This can aid in improving posture, encourage stretching and increase endurance.
Massage Therapist Gail Dawe has experience of treating patients presenting with this condition. Gail runs her clinic at the Winchester practice on Mondays. Please call reception for more information or to book an appointment.