We have been teaching some advanced massage techniques so that our students can help those who live with fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome, or a collection of symptoms characterized by fascial pain and generalized feelings of malaise. The symptoms can vary from person to person and there could be chronic fatigue involved. Most people that are diagnosed have tender points in specific areas of the body in the amount of 11-18 and in all four quadrants of the body. The syndrome can be very debilitating but can be controlled with proper nutrition, exercise, and supplements. Some rheumatologists will prescribe pain medication, thyroid medication or suggest that the patient receive massage. Massage can help by loosening the fascial layer of tissue, releasing the muscles and ameliorating the inflammation which can be a cause of some of the pain and swelling in the tissues.