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Blog, Physiotherapy

Fibromyalgia and Physiotherapy: An Integrated Approach to Relief


Hello, I’m Mattias McAndrew, head physiotherapist at M Physio in Spring Hill, Brisbane.

As a physiotherapist with eight years of clinical experience and a further ten years in exercise prescription, I have witnessed the profound impact that tailored physiotherapy and exercise programs can have in managing fibromyalgia symptoms.

Fibromyalgia is a complex and often misunderstood condition, characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and cognitive challenges.

At M Physio, we prioritise evidence-based interventions that empower patients to regain control over their symptoms.


Understanding Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia affects approximately 2-6% of the global population, with a higher prevalence in women.

The condition lacks a definitive cause but is linked to central sensitisation—a heightened sensitivity of the nervous system to pain stimuli.

Patients often face delays in diagnosis, averaging between two to six years, which can exacerbate symptoms and impact psychological well-being.


How Physiotherapy Helps

Physiotherapy offers both ‘hands-on’ and ‘hands-off’ treatments for fibromyalgia. Combining these approaches has been shown to improve outcomes such as pain relief, physical function, and quality of life.


Evidence-Based Interventions

  1. Exercise Therapy
    • Aerobic and resistance exercises help reduce pain and improve strength and endurance.
    • Movement therapies like yoga and tai chi enhance flexibility and mindfulness.
  2. Manual Therapy
    • Techniques such as myofascial release and soft tissue mobilisation can alleviate muscle tightness.
  3. Hydrotherapy
    • Warm water exercises improve mobility and reduce muscle soreness.
  4. Education and Multidisciplinary Care
    • Understanding pain mechanisms and integrating physiotherapy with psychological and nutritional support enhances long-term outcomes.

A Call to Action

Managing fibromyalgia requires a tailored and consistent approach.

Here’s how you can start:

  1. Incorporate Gentle Exercises: Begin with low-impact activities such as walking or yoga.
  2. Consult a Physiotherapist: A personalised program can address specific symptoms and goals.
  3. Explore Multidisciplinary Care: Collaborate with healthcare providers to address all aspects of fibromyalgia.

If you’re living with fibromyalgia and looking for relief, book an appointment with M Physio today.

Together, we can create a plan to help you move forward with less pain and more confidence.


Written By:

Mattias McAndrew (Head Physiotherapist)

Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Hons)


References

Gobbo, M., Pullara, R., Pollet, J. (2024). Hands-on and hands-off physiotherapy treatments in fibromyalgia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Biomedicines, 12(10), 2412.

Carrasco-Vega, E., Guiducci, S., Nacci, F., et al. (2024). Efficacy of physiotherapy treatment in medium and long term in adults with fibromyalgia: An umbrella of systematic reviews. Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology, 42(6), 1248-1261.


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