Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a Chronic pain syndrome of the soft tissues of the body where the tissues have become stuck and inflamed. When this occurs, the fascia dehydrates and becomes like glue, leading to loss of mobility, tension, and reduction in range of motion.
A person with Fibromyalgia will have a predictable pain pattern in the soft tissues - it is diagnosed when 11 specific tender points are found within the soft tissue of the body. Fibromyalgia also often presents with sleep disorders.
In my clinical experience Direct Myofascial Release (DMFR) has profound beneficial effects for people with fibromyalgia. DMFR, as maintenance therapy, releases restrictions, which can help to flush waste from the tissues thereby reducing inflammation and sensitivity to pain. Stimulating lymphatic flow aids in rebalancing the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems - this helps restore the rest relaxation cycle, aiding in sleep and physical function and ultimately a reduction in anxiety levels.
Studies have also supported the beneficial effects of DMFR in reducing the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.
DMFR is a hands-on treatment performed on the skin with no oils or creams, it is gentle and slow. No force is used, as this can cause discomfort in a person with fibromyalgia. Manually forcing a myofascial release in a person with fibromyalgia can cause a flare of their symptoms.
DMFR involves applying gentle, sustained pressure into these connective tissue restrictions to eliminate tightness and pain and restore motion. By moving slowly and waiting for the body's natural rhythm, the fascia responds by elongating, rehydrating, and reorganizing.
Michael Wilby
