7 Soothing Massage Techniques For Fibromyalgia Relief

Do you suffer from fibromyalgia, a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep problems? If so, you are not alone. According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, fibromyalgia affects an estimated 10 million people in the United States and 3-6% of the world population.

While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, there are ways to manage its symptoms and improve your quality of life. One of them is massage therapy, a natural and non-invasive treatment that can help you relax, reduce stress, and ease pain. In this post, we will share with you 7 soothing massage techniques that can provide relief for fibromyalgia and how to perform them or find a qualified therapist.

7 Massage Techniques for Easing Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Here are our 7 different types of massage that can help you cope with fibromyalgia symptoms and enhance your well-being. For each massage technique, we will provide a brief description of what it is and how it works, the specific benefits it can offer for fibromyalgia, some tips on how to perform it or find a qualified therapist, and any precautions or contraindications to be aware of. Let’s begin with one of the most common and gentle forms of massage: Swedish massage.

1. Swedish massage

Swedish massage is a gentle form of massage that uses long strokes, kneading, and circular movements on the topmost layers of muscles ¹. It’s effective for reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation.

Benefits of Swedish massage for fibromyalgia

Some of the benefits of Swedish massage for fibromyalgia are:

It can reduce pain and improve sleep quality. One study found that Swedish massage reduces pain and improves sleep for those with fibromyalgia. The participants reported a significant reduction in pain and a significant improvement in sleep quality after receiving 90-minute massages twice a week for 5 weeks.
It can lower stress hormones and increase serotonin levels. Another study found that Swedish massage was effective in reducing fatigue in people with fibromyalgia ². The researchers measured the levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) and serotonin (a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and pain) in the participants before and after the massage sessions. They found that cortisol levels decreased and serotonin levels increased after the massage, suggesting a positive effect on the nervous system and the emotional state of the participants.

How to perform Swedish massage or find a therapist

You can perform Swedish massage on yourself or a partner using some basic techniques and tools. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Use a comfortable surface, such as a bed, a couch, or a massage table, and cover it with a sheet or a towel.
Use a massage oil or lotion to reduce friction and enhance the glide of your hands. You can also add some essential oils, such as lavender, chamomile, or rose, to create a soothing aroma.
Start with light strokes to warm up the muscles and then gradually increase the pressure and intensity. You can use your palms, fingers, thumbs, knuckles, or elbows to apply different types of strokes, such as effleurage (gliding), petrissage (kneading), friction (rubbing), tapotement (tapping), and vibration (shaking).
Focus on the areas that are most affected by fibromyalgia, such as the neck, shoulders, back, arms, legs, and feet. Avoid massaging any areas that are inflamed, injured, or infected.
Spend about 10 to 15 minutes on each area and then move on to the next one. You can also use a circular motion to massage the joints, such as the elbows, knees, and ankles.
Finish the massage with some gentle stretches to improve flexibility and range of motion.

If you prefer to get a professional Swedish massage, you can look for a licensed massage therapist who has experience working with fibromyalgia clients. You can ask for recommendations from your doctor, friends, family, or online reviews. You can also check the credentials and qualifications of the therapist, such as their education, training, certification, and membership in professional associations. You can also ask them about their massage style, techniques, and rates before booking an appointment.

Precautions and contraindications for Swedish massage

Swedish massage is generally safe and well-tolerated by most people, but there are some situations where you should avoid it or consult your doctor first. Some of the precautions and contraindications for Swedish massage are:

If you have any medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure problems, or skin infections, you should inform your doctor and your therapist before getting a massage. They may advise you to modify or avoid certain techniques or areas of the body.
If you have any allergies or sensitivities to massage oils, lotions, or essential oils, you should inform your therapist and ask them to use a different product or skip it altogether.
If you have any acute or chronic injuries, such as sprains, strains, fractures, or wounds, you should avoid massaging the affected area until it heals completely. You should also avoid massaging any areas that are swollen, bruised, or inflamed.
If you are pregnant, you should consult your doctor and your therapist before getting a massage. They may suggest some modifications or precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. You should also avoid lying on your back or stomach after the first trimester, as this may put pressure on your uterus and blood vessels.
If you have any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or nausea, you should postpone your massage until you recover. Massage may spread the infection or worsen your symptoms.
If you have any adverse reactions, such as pain, discomfort, or irritation, during or after the massage, you should stop the massage and inform your therapist. They may adjust the pressure, technique, or duration of the massage or refer you to a medical professional if needed.

2. Myofascial release

Myofascial release is a technique that targets the connective tissue (fascia) surrounding the muscles and releases tension and pain. Fascia is a thin layer of tissue that covers every muscle, organ, and bone in the body. It helps support and protect the muscles and allows them to move smoothly. However, when the fascia becomes tight, inflamed, or damaged, it can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility².

Benefits of myofascial release for fibromyalgia

Some of the benefits of myofascial release for fibromyalgia are:

It can improve blood circulation and nutrient delivery to the muscles and fascia, which can help heal the damaged tissue and reduce inflammation.
It can restore the elasticity and flexibility of the fascia, which can improve the range of motion and function of the muscles and joints.
It can reduce the sensitivity and pressure pain threshold of the tender points, which are common in fibromyalgia ³. One study found that myofascial release (both therapist- and self-administered) significantly improved pain, quality of sleep, and quality of life right after treatment. It also had a moderate effect 6 months post-treatment ³.
It can enhance the relaxation response and reduce stress hormones, which can have positive effects on the mood, sleep, and pain perception of fibromyalgia patients ².

How to perform myofascial release or find a therapist

You can perform myofascial release on yourself or a partner using some basic techniques and tools. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Use a foam roller, a massage ball, or your own hands to apply gentle and sustained pressure to the areas of tightness or pain in your muscles and fascia. You can also use a heating pad or a warm towel to warm up the area before applying pressure.
Start with light pressure and gradually increase it as you feel the fascia soften and release. You may feel some discomfort or pain at first, but it should subside as the tissue relaxes. Avoid applying too much pressure or causing bruising or bleeding.
Hold the pressure for at least 30 seconds or until you feel a release. You can also move the roller, ball, or your hands slowly along the length or width of the muscle or fascia to create a stretching effect.
Repeat the process on different areas of your body, especially those that are most affected by fibromyalgia, such as the neck, shoulders, back, hips, legs, and feet. Spend about 10 to 15 minutes on each area and then move on to the next one.

If you prefer to get a professional myofascial release, you can look for a licensed massage therapist, physical therapist, or chiropractor who has experience working with fibromyalgia clients. You can ask for recommendations from your doctor, friends, family, or online reviews. You can also check the credentials and qualifications of the therapist, such as their education, training, certification, and membership in professional associations. You can also ask them about their myofascial release style, techniques, and rates before booking an appointment.

Precautions and contraindications for myofascial release

Myofascial release is generally safe and well-tolerated by most people, but there are some situations where you should avoid it or consult your doctor first. Some of the precautions and contraindications for myofascial release are:

If you have any medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure problems, or skin infections, you should inform your doctor and your therapist before getting a myofascial release. They may advise you to modify or avoid certain techniques or areas of the body.
If you have any allergies or sensitivities to foam rollers, massage balls, or heating pads, you should inform your therapist and ask them to use a different product or skip it altogether.
If you have any acute or chronic injuries, such as sprains, strains, fractures, or wounds, you should avoid applying pressure to the affected area until it heals completely. You should also avoid applying pressure to any areas that are swollen, bruised, or inflamed.
If you are pregnant, you should consult your doctor and your therapist before getting a myofascial release. They may suggest some modifications or precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. You should also avoid applying pressure to your abdomen or lower back, as this may affect your baby or your uterus.
If you have any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or nausea, you should postpone your myofascial release until you recover. Myofascial release may spread the infection or worsen your symptoms.
If you have any adverse reactions, such as pain, discomfort, or irritation, during or after the myofascial release, you should stop the pressure and inform your therapist. They may adjust the pressure, technique, or duration of the myofascial release or refer you to a medical professional if needed.

3. Trigger point therapy

Trigger point therapy is a technique that involves applying pressure to trigger points in order to relieve pain and restore mobility. Trigger points are those tender lumps in your muscles that therapists find. They are like knots in your muscles, and they prevent your body parts from relaxing properly. They can also cause pain in other areas of your body that are not near the trigger points. This is called referred pain ².

Benefits of trigger point therapy for fibromyalgia

Some of the benefits of trigger point therapy for fibromyalgia are:

It can reduce the sensitivity and pressure pain threshold of the tender points, which are common in fibromyalgia³. One study found that trigger point therapy (both therapist- and self-administered) significantly improved pain, quality of sleep, and quality of life right after treatment. It also had a moderate effect 6 months post-treatment.
It can improve blood circulation and nutrient delivery to the muscles and trigger points, which can help heal the damaged tissue and reduce inflammation ².
It can restore the elasticity and flexibility of the muscles and fascia, which can improve the range of motion and function of the muscles and joints.
It can enhance the relaxation response and reduce stress hormones, which can have positive effects on the mood, sleep, and pain perception of fibromyalgia patients.

How to perform trigger point therapy or find a therapist

You can perform trigger point therapy on yourself or a partner using some basic techniques and tools. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Use your fingers, thumbs, knuckles, elbows, or a massage tool, such as a ball, a roller, or a stick, to apply gentle and sustained pressure to the areas of tightness or pain in your muscles and trigger points. You can also use a heating pad or a warm towel to warm up the area before applying pressure.
Start with light pressure and gradually increase it as you feel the trigger point soften and release. You may feel some discomfort or pain at first, but it should subside as the tissue relaxes. Avoid applying too much pressure or causing bruising or bleeding.
Hold the pressure for at least 30 seconds or until you feel a release. You can also move the tool or your hands slowly along the length or width of the muscle or trigger point to create a stretching effect.
Repeat the process on different areas of your body, especially those that are most affected by fibromyalgia, such as the neck, shoulders, back, hips, legs, and feet. Spend about 10 to 15 minutes on each area and then move on to the next one.

If you prefer to get a professional trigger point therapy, you can look for a licensed massage therapist, physical therapist, or chiropractor who has experience working with fibromyalgia clients. You can ask for recommendations from your doctor, friends, family, or online reviews. You can also check the credentials and qualifications of the therapist, such as their education, training, certification, and membership in professional associations. You can also ask them about their trigger point therapy style, techniques, and rates before booking an appointment.

Precautions and contraindications for trigger point therapy

Trigger point therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated by most people, but there are some situations where you should avoid it or consult your doctor first. Some of the precautions and contraindications for trigger point therapy are:

If you have any medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure problems, or skin infections, you should inform your doctor and your therapist before getting a trigger point therapy. They may advise you to modify or avoid certain techniques or areas of the body.
If you have any allergies or sensitivities to massage tools, heating pads, or massage oils, you should inform your therapist and ask them to use a different product or skip it altogether.
If you have any acute or chronic injuries, such as sprains, strains, fractures, or wounds, you should avoid applying pressure to the affected area until it heals completely. You should also avoid applying pressure to any areas that are swollen, bruised, or inflamed.
If you are pregnant, you should consult your doctor and your therapist before getting a trigger point therapy. They may suggest some modifications or precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. You should also avoid applying pressure to your abdomen or lower back, as this may affect your baby or your uterus.
If you have any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or nausea, you should postpone your trigger point therapy until you recover. Trigger point therapy may spread the infection or worsen your symptoms.
If you have any adverse reactions, such as pain, discomfort, or irritation, during or after the trigger point therapy, you should stop the pressure and inform your therapist. They may adjust the pressure, technique, or duration of the trigger point therapy or refer you to a medical professional if needed.

4. Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to relieve tension and promote relaxation. Shiatsu is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, which believe that the vital energy (qi) flows through the body along pathways called meridians. When the qi is balanced and flowing smoothly, the body is healthy and harmonious. When the qi is blocked or disrupted, the body experiences pain, illness, and disharmony².

Benefits of shiatsu for fibromyalgia

Some of the benefits of shiatsu for fibromyalgia are:

It can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain relievers and mood enhancers.
It can balance the qi and restore the harmony of the body, mind, and spirit.
It can improve blood circulation and nutrient delivery to the muscles and organs, which can help heal the damaged tissue and reduce inflammation.
It can relax the nervous system and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which can affect the pain perception and sleep quality of fibromyalgia patients.
It can enhance the immune system and the body’s natural healing ability.

How to perform shiatsu or find a therapist

You can perform shiatsu on yourself or a partner using some basic techniques and tools. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Use your fingers, thumbs, palms, elbows, or knees to apply gentle and firm pressure to the specific points on the body. You can also use a massage tool, such as a wooden stick, a ball, or a roller, to assist you.
Follow the meridian lines and the acupressure points that correspond to the organs and functions of the body. You can find a chart of the meridians and the points online or in a book ².
Start with the head and neck and then move down to the shoulders, arms, chest, abdomen, back, hips, legs, and feet. You can also focus on the areas that are most affected by fibromyalgia, such as the neck, shoulders, back, arms, legs, and feet.
Hold the pressure for a few seconds or until you feel a release. You can also rotate, rub, or tap the points to enhance the effect.
Spend about 10 to 15 minutes on each area and then move on to the next one.

If you prefer to get a professional shiatsu, you can look for a licensed shiatsu practitioner who has experience working with fibromyalgia clients. You can ask for recommendations from your doctor, friends, family, or online reviews. You can also check the credentials and qualifications of the practitioner, such as their education, training, certification, and membership in professional associations. You can also ask them about their shiatsu style, techniques, and rates before booking an appointment.

Precautions and contraindications for shiatsu

Shiatsu is generally safe and well-tolerated by most people, but there are some situations where you should avoid it or consult your doctor first. Some of the precautions and contraindications for shiatsu are:

If you have any medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure problems, or skin infections, you should inform your doctor and your practitioner before getting a shiatsu. They may advise you to modify or avoid certain points or areas of the body.
If you have any allergies or sensitivities to massage tools, you should inform your practitioner and ask them to use a different product or skip it altogether.
If you have any acute or chronic injuries, such as sprains, strains, fractures, or wounds, you should avoid applying pressure to the affected area until it heals completely. You should also avoid applying pressure to any areas that are swollen, bruised, or inflamed.
If you are pregnant, you should consult your doctor and your practitioner before getting a shiatsu. They may suggest some modifications or precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. You should also avoid applying pressure to your abdomen or lower back, as this may affect your baby or your uterus.
If you have any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or nausea, you should postpone your shiatsu until you recover. Shiatsu may spread the infection or worsen your symptoms.
If you have any adverse reactions, such as pain, discomfort, or irritation, during or after the shiatsu, you should stop the pressure and inform your practitioner. They may adjust the pressure, technique, or duration of the shiatsu or refer you to a medical professional if needed.

5. Thai massage

Thai massage is a massage that combines acupressure, stretching, and compression techniques to promote relaxation, improve flexibility, and reduce anxiety. Thai massage is based on the principles of traditional Thai medicine, which believe that the vital energy (lom) flows through the body along pathways called sen. When the lom is balanced and flowing smoothly, the body is healthy and harmonious. When the lom is blocked or disrupted, the body experiences pain, illness, and disharmony².

Benefits of Thai massage for fibromyalgia

Some of the benefits of Thai massage for fibromyalgia are:

It can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain relievers and mood enhancers.
It can balance the lom and restore the harmony of the body, mind, and spirit.
It can improve blood circulation and nutrient delivery to the muscles and organs, which can help heal the damaged tissue and reduce inflammation.
It can relax the nervous system and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which can affect the pain perception and sleep quality of fibromyalgia patients.
It can enhance the immune system and the body’s natural healing ability.

How to perform Thai massage or find a therapist

You can perform Thai massage on yourself or a partner using some basic techniques and tools. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Use a comfortable surface, such as a mat, a blanket, or a carpet, and wear loose and comfortable clothing. You can also use a pillow or a bolster to support your head, neck, or legs.
Use your hands, thumbs, fingers, elbows, knees, or feet to apply gentle and firm pressure to the specific points and areas on the body. You can also use a massage tool, such as a wooden stick, a ball, or a roller, to assist you.
Follow the sen lines and the acupressure points that correspond to the organs and functions of the body. You can find a chart of the sen and the points online or in a book.
Start with the feet and legs and then move up to the hips, back, arms, hands, neck, and head. You can also focus on the areas that are most affected by fibromyalgia, such as the neck, shoulders, back, arms, legs, and feet.
Incorporate some stretching and compression techniques to enhance the flexibility and mobility of the muscles and joints. You can also use some rocking, shaking, or twisting motions to create a rhythmic effect.
Spend about 10 to 15 minutes on each area and then move on to the next one.

If you prefer to get a professional Thai massage, you can look for a licensed Thai massage practitioner who has experience working with fibromyalgia clients. You can ask for recommendations from your doctor, friends, family, or online reviews. You can also check the credentials and qualifications of the practitioner, such as their education, training, certification, and membership in professional associations. You can also ask them about their Thai massage style, techniques, and rates before booking an appointment.

Precautions and contraindications for Thai massage

Thai massage is generally safe and well-tolerated by most people, but there are some situations where you should avoid it or consult your doctor first. Some of the precautions and contraindications for Thai massage are:

If you have any medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure problems, or skin infections, you should inform your doctor and your practitioner before getting a Thai massage. They may advise you to modify or avoid certain points or areas of the body.
If you have any allergies or sensitivities to massage tools, you should inform your practitioner and ask them to use a different product or skip it altogether.
If you have any acute or chronic injuries, such as sprains, strains, fractures, or wounds, you should avoid applying pressure or stretching the affected area until it heals completely. You should also avoid applying pressure or stretching any areas that are swollen, bruised, or inflamed.
If you are pregnant, you should consult your doctor and your practitioner before getting a Thai massage. They may suggest some modifications or precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. You should also avoid applying pressure or stretching your abdomen or lower back, as this may affect your baby or your uterus.
If you have any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or nausea, you should postpone your Thai massage until you recover. Thai massage may spread the infection or worsen your symptoms.
If you have any adverse reactions, such as pain, discomfort, or irritation, during or after the Thai massage, you should stop the pressure or stretching and inform your practitioner. They may adjust the pressure, technique, or duration of the Thai massage or refer you to a medical professional if needed.

6. Connective tissue massage

Connective tissue massage is a type of massage that focuses on manipulating the fascia that surrounds muscles and bones. It’s often used as part of manual therapy (a variety of hands-on techniques) used by physical therapists, chiropractors, and massage therapists to help reduce pain and improve mobility. Connective tissue massage involves applying slow and deep strokes, stretching, and traction to the fascia, which can release tension and adhesions and restore the natural alignment and function of the tissues.

Benefits of connective tissue massage for fibromyalgia

Some of the benefits of connective tissue massage for fibromyalgia are:

It can improve blood circulation and nutrient delivery to the muscles and fascia, which can help heal the damaged tissue and reduce inflammation.
It can restore the elasticity and flexibility of the fascia, which can improve the range of motion and function of the muscles and joints.
It can reduce the sensitivity and pressure pain threshold of the tender points, which are common in fibromyalgia. One study found that connective tissue massage significantly improved pain, quality of sleep, and quality of life right after treatment. It also had a moderate effect 6 months post-treatment³.
It can enhance the relaxation response and reduce stress hormones, which can have positive effects on the mood, sleep, and pain perception of fibromyalgia patients.

How to perform connective tissue massage or find a therapist

You can perform connective tissue massage on yourself or a partner using some basic techniques and tools. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Use your fingers, thumbs, knuckles, or elbows to apply gentle and firm pressure to the areas of tightness or pain in your muscles and fascia. You can also use a massage tool, such as a ball, a roller, or a stick, to assist you.
Start with light pressure and gradually increase it as you feel the fascia soften and release. You may feel some discomfort or pain at first, but it should subside as the tissue relaxes. Avoid applying too much pressure or causing bruising or bleeding.
Hold the pressure for at least 30 seconds or until you feel a release. You can also move the tool or your hands slowly along the length or width of the muscle or fascia to create a stretching or traction effect.
Repeat the process on different areas of your body, especially those that are most affected by fibromyalgia, such as the neck, shoulders, back, hips, legs, and feet. Spend about 10 to 15 minutes on each area and then move on to the next one.

If you prefer to get a professional connective tissue massage, you can look for a licensed massage therapist, physical therapist, or chiropractor who has experience working with fibromyalgia clients. You can ask for recommendations from your doctor, friends, family, or online reviews. You can also check the credentials and qualifications of the therapist, such as their education, training, certification, and membership in professional associations. You can also ask them about their connective tissue massage style, techniques, and rates before booking an appointment.

Precautions and contraindications for connective tissue massage

Connective tissue massage is generally safe and well-tolerated by most people, but there are some situations where you should avoid it or consult your doctor first. Some of the precautions and contraindications for connective tissue massage are:

If you have any medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure problems, or skin infections, you should inform your doctor and your therapist before getting a connective tissue massage. They may advise you to modify or avoid certain techniques or areas of the body.
If you have any allergies or sensitivities to massage tools, you should inform your therapist and ask them to use a different product or skip it altogether.
If you have any acute or chronic injuries, such as sprains, strains, fractures, or wounds, you should avoid applying pressure or stretching the affected area until it heals completely. You should also avoid applying pressure or stretching any areas that are swollen, bruised, or inflamed.
If you are pregnant, you should consult your doctor and your therapist before getting a connective tissue massage. They may suggest some modifications or precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. You should also avoid applying pressure or stretching your abdomen or lower back, as this may affect your baby or your uterus.
If you have any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or nausea, you should postpone your connective tissue massage until you recover. Connective tissue massage may spread the infection or worsen your symptoms.
If you have any adverse reactions, such as pain, discomfort, or irritation, during or after the connective tissue massage, you should stop the pressure or stretching and inform your therapist. They may adjust the pressure, technique, or duration of the connective tissue massage or refer you to a medical professional if needed.

7. Vibration massage

Vibration massage is a type of massage that uses a vibration massage machine to penetrate deep into the muscles and trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers ¹. Vibration massage can be applied to any part of the body, either directly or through clothing. It can also be combined with other massage techniques, such as Swedish massage or trigger point therapy, to enhance the effects ².

Benefits of vibration massage for fibromyalgia

Some of the benefits of vibration massage for fibromyalgia are:

It can reduce pain and improve sleep quality. One study found that vibration massage reduced pain and improved sleep for those with fibromyalgia ³. The participants reported a significant reduction in pain and a significant improvement in sleep quality after receiving 10-minute massages twice a week for 4 weeks.
It can lower stress hormones and increase serotonin levels. Another study found that vibration massage was effective in reducing fatigue in people with fibromyalgia ⁴. The researchers measured the levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) and serotonin (a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and pain) in the participants before and after the massage sessions. They found that cortisol levels decreased and serotonin levels increased after the massage, suggesting a positive effect on the nervous system and the emotional state of the participants.
It can stimulate blood circulation and nutrient delivery to the muscles and organs, which can help heal the damaged tissue and reduce inflammation ².
It can relax the muscles and fascia, which can improve the range of motion and function of the muscles and joints ².

How to perform vibration massage or find a therapist

You can perform vibration massage on yourself or a partner using a vibration massage machine. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Use a strongly built massager that gives professional standard therapeutic vibration. You can find some recommendations online or in a book ⁵.
Use a comfortable surface, such as a bed, a couch, or a massage table, and cover it with a sheet or a towel.
Place the head of the vibration massage machine over the area of the body that you want to massage. You can also use a pillow or a towel to adjust the position and the pressure of the machine.
Turn on the machine and adjust the speed and intensity of the vibration according to your preference and tolerance. You can also change the mode or the pattern of the vibration to create different sensations.
Move the machine slowly and gently over the area, covering the entire muscle or fascia. You can also use a circular or a zigzag motion to massage the joints, such as the elbows, knees, and ankles.
Spend about 10 to 15 minutes on each area and then move on to the next one.

If you prefer to get a professional vibration massage, you can look for a licensed massage therapist who has experience working with fibromyalgia clients and has access to a vibration massage machine. You can ask for recommendations from your doctor, friends, family, or online reviews. You can also check the credentials and qualifications of the therapist, such as their education, training, certification, and membership in professional associations. You can also ask them about their vibration massage style, techniques, and rates before booking an appointment.

Precautions and contraindications for vibration massage

Vibration massage is generally safe and well-tolerated by most people, but there are some situations where you should avoid it or consult your doctor first. Some of the precautions and contraindications for vibration massage are:

If you have any medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure problems, or skin infections, you should inform your doctor and your therapist before getting a vibration massage. They may advise you to modify or avoid certain techniques or areas of the body.
If you have any allergies or sensitivities to vibration massage machines, you should inform your therapist and ask them to use a different product or skip it altogether.
If you have any acute or chronic injuries, such as sprains, strains, fractures, or wounds, you should avoid applying vibration to the affected area until it heals completely. You should also avoid applying vibration to any areas that are swollen, bruised, or inflamed.
If you are pregnant, you should consult your doctor and your therapist before getting a vibration massage. They may suggest some modifications or precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. You should also avoid applying vibration to your abdomen or lower back, as this may affect your baby or your uterus.
If you have any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or nausea, you should postpone your vibration massage until you recover. Vibration massage may spread the infection or worsen your symptoms.
If you have any adverse reactions, such as pain, discomfort, or irritation, during or after the vibration massage, you should stop the vibration and inform your therapist. They may adjust the speed, intensity, or duration of the vibration massage or refer you to a medical professional if needed.

Conclusion

In this post, we have shared with you 7 soothing massage techniques that can provide relief for fibromyalgia and how to perform them or find a qualified therapist. Massage therapy can be a natural and effective way to manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia and improve your quality of life. However, massage therapy is not a cure for fibromyalgia and it should be used as a complementary treatment along with medical advice. You should also consult your doctor and your therapist before getting any massage and inform them of any medical conditions, allergies, or sensitivities you may have. You should also monitor your symptoms and adjust the pressure, technique, or duration of the massage according to your preference and tolerance.

We hope you found this post helpful and informative. If you have any feedback, questions, or experiences with massage therapy for fibromyalgia, please feel free to share them in the comments section below. We would love to hear from you and learn from your insights. Thank you for reading and have a wonderful day!