Many doctors agree that a regular exercise schedule is a handy tool in combatting the effects of fibromyalgia. However, some severe cases call for the touch of a professional, and that is where physical therapy comes into play. Physical therapists have a wide variety of treatment options for the management of pain associated with this chronic condition.
Heat Therapy
Heat has long been recognized as an effective tool for pain management. Many fibromyalgia sufferers have found relief in treatments that use heat as the primary healing method. Heat treatments include:
- Paraffin wax therapy
- Deep heating with hot packs
- Hot stone massage
All of these treatments provide relief by increasing blood circulation and increasing the flexibility of connective tissues. Even something as simple as an at-home heating pad can provide relief from the constant aches associated with fibromyalgia.
Water Therapy
The healing benefits of water for fibromyalgia sufferers come in a variety of forms. The most common use of water in physical therapy is for low-impact exercises to strengthen muscles and increase circulation. Many people with fibromyalgia find water aerobics to be less strenuous on the body's pressure points, making it a more enjoyable form of therapy than typical land exercises.
Jacuzzis and whirlpool tubs offer a combination of massaging jet and heat therapy, relaxing the muscles and encouraging blood flow. For those who have overly-sensitive pressure points that make typical massages painful, there is a new in-water massage treatment known as Watsu that is gaining popularity in the fibromyalgia community.
Trigger Point Injections
Some people with fibromyalgia have what are known as trigger points, which can feel like hardened knots in the muscles and have the ability to cause pain throughout the body. To alleviate the pressure and rigidity, doctors will inject corticosteroids and/or anesthetics into these points. The result is often quick and long-lasting relief from fibromyalgia pain generated from these trigger points. Best of all, a quick recovery time is generally associated with this treatment method.
Electrotherapy
Physical therapists sometimes promote pain management through muscle control. Often this is done with the use of a TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) machine. This method sends small electrical currents throughout the muscles via electrodes that are attached to the skin. Frequency and intensity are both controlled, giving therapist and patient the opportunity to find a setting that works best for pain management. Sometimes, TENS machines are given to patients for at-home use after thorough education on the use of the product.
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