Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a condition characterized by pain, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms. It can make it difficult to function. It can interfere with tasks like cooking meals and even brushing your teeth.
CFS cannot be cured, but it can be managed. There are several ways to reduce symptoms. Massage is often a recommended treatment.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Also called myalgic encephalomyelitis, chronic fatigue syndrome is a neurological disease with symptoms including post-exertional malaise (extreme fatigue after physical activity) unrefreshing sleep, cognitive dysfunction, and orthostatic intolerance (failure of the automatic nervous system in response to challenges faced in the upright position).
Many sufferers will experience other symptoms during a flare-up due to difficulties with their autonomic, neurological, and immunological systems. These include:
- Pain in the muscles and joints
- Headaches
- Confusion, memory issues, disorientation, and other cognitive issues
- Sensitivity to light, sound, taste, odor, vibration, or touch
- Nausea or abdominal pain
- Muscle weakness
- Poor coordination
- Autonomic and endocrine symptoms such as cold or heat intolerance
- Immune symptoms like tender lymph nodes, sore throats, and fevers
While CFS can be genetic, it is usually triggered by an infection.
The condition affects 15-30 million people worldwide. 75% of sufferers are unable to work. 25% are home-ridden or bedridden.
Massage and CFS
Massage is effective in relieving CFS and related symptoms. A 2022 study review looked at possible treatments for the condition. Massage was noted as a beneficial method for non-pharmacologic management.
It is believed that slow, relaxing massage techniques increase blood circulation to promote muscle repair. The muscles become more flexible reducing pain. The reduction of pain leads to improved sleep and less stress and depression.
Promoting circulation is also beneficial as people with CFS tend to lead sedentary lifestyles.
Massage to treat CFS uses a targeted bodywork approach. A skilled technician will massage sites of lymph engorgement to promote the draining of toxins. The method returns lymph into the bloodstream to maintain normal blood volume and tissues and prevent the excess buildup of fluid around the tissues.
The technician will also massage the patient along the spine targeting the respiratory system to improve breathing patterns. They will target the cranial sacral which stimulates cranial rhythmic impulse. Cranial manipulation decreases inflammation and improves digestive, respiratory, and cardiac function.
The overall result is an ease of cerebral spinal fluid circulation, softened muscle tissue for more fluid movements, and a reduction in toxins and waste. Massage plays an important role in reducing symptoms of CFS.
The Right Therapist is Essential
A skilled therapist is essential in CFS treatment. An experienced technician will get you the results you are looking for without increasing pain. Massage Revolution is recommended.
Our team is skilled in various aspects of massage therapy including neuromuscular massage therapy, trigger point massage therapy, and more. We can treat a variety of chronic issues. Contact us for the best massage in Manhattan Beach.
Massage Revolution’s Back & Neck Relief Center located in Manhattan Beach is the biggest trigger point therapy clinic in Los Angeles and the world.
Member savings plans are available. PPO insurance is also accepted.
