Managing chronic pain with fibromyalgia physical therapy

Has your body been aching all over for the past three months? Do you wake up fatigued even after a long night’s sleep? Are you having trouble focusing on normal daily tasks? If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, you might have a chronic nerve issue called fibromyalgia. 

It’s estimated that up to 12 million people in the U.S. are affected by fibromyalgia. Researchers also report that about 90% of these people are women. There are a number of treatment options that can help manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Some of these options can even help reduce your symptoms. One treatment option that fits both goals is fibromyalgia physical therapy.

Which physical therapy methods can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms?

Physical therapists have many therapy methods at their disposal. Combining a number of these methods together can help reduce and manage your fibromyalgia symptoms more effectively. Three of the most effective physical therapy techniques for fibromyalgia are: 

1. Electrical stimulation — This therapy method uses electrode pads and a special device to send low-energy electrical pulses into your body. Once there, these pulses can help block pain signals that your nerves are sending to your brain. One medical study of electrical stimulation for fibromyalgia reports that participants had a 30% or greater decrease in their pain. 

2. Aquatic therapy — Aquatic therapy typically takes place in a heated pool. It often involves doing various exercises and movements while in the pool. For fibromyalgia patients, this type of therapy can be very effective. In fact, medical studies show that aquatic therapy led to a seven-point drop in pain measured on a 100-point scale on average. Additionally, studies report that this therapy led to a 27% improvement in stiffness and a 37% improvement in muscle strength. 

3. Myofascial release — This technique is designed to relieve tension in specific areas of a muscle, called trigger points. A medical study reports that 18% of fibromyalgia patients had active myofascial trigger points. Another study shows that myofascial release significantly reduces pain and anxiety levels in fibromyalgia patients. This same study also noted significant improvements in physical function after this technique was used. 

Find effective physical therapy for fibromyalgia at Peak Performance

Are you looking for effective physical therapy for your fibromyalgia? Our Peak Performance team has the experience and techniques to help you. We’ll start by having you come into one of our clinics for a free screening. Then, our team will use the results of your screening to create a personalized therapy plan that fits your specific needs. 

Take the next step to start getting our help with your fibromyalgia. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.