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Fibromyalgia and Physical Therapy

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Posted 11/13/2008 5:50 PM (GMT 0)
Hello everyone,

I just had a couple questions regarding your experience with physical therapy (PT) and fibromyalgia.  I was at the oral surgeon the other day who specializes in TMJ disorders, which I now have of course.  He was commenting to me as to how my muscles are so incredibly tight, I mean, he was almost speechless.  He suggested that I get PT massages and myofacial release one to two times a week for 5 to 7 weeks.  I was wondering if anyone out there has ever sought PT for relief from fibromyalgia and/or associated TMJ disorders.  If so, would you mind shedding some light on the subject?

Thanks!

 

Posted 11/13/2008 6:35 PM (GMT 0)

Hi

I attepted physical therapy and massage therapy, twice with both, and both times I was more miserable and in pain than before.  Both of these places said they understood fibromyalgia and were highly recommended.  I was told to drink tons of water two days before which I did.  After I came home, I had to literally crawl up the stairs and I didnt sleep for several nights.  For me, it was a bad experience.

My TMJ is so bad the dentist is at a loss as what to do.  The bite splint helps, but I use moist heat almost every day.  Never chew gum and when I yawn, I hold my hand under my jaw so I dont stretch my mouth open to much.

If you try physical therapy make sure they know how to treat fibro.

I wish you better luck then I had

Posted 11/13/2008 7:12 PM (GMT 0)
Mouse,
My daughter had PT for TMJ and it was extremely effective. The therapist also taught her how to "self massage" the jaw when it started to go out again. She also had the myofacial release done. If you have the insurance to do this I would strongly recommend it but I would also ask to be taught how to treat yourself. None of us can afford to do PT for the rest of our lives! turn
Posted 11/13/2008 7:45 PM (GMT 0)

Hmm...you really felt terrible for days after a massage?  It has been over a year since I have had one, but I dont remember it leaving me sore.  I will definitely make sure the PT knows about and how to treat Fibro. 

I am lucky to have a wonderful insurance plan through work that covers up to 100 PT visits per year, only having to pay the $10 copay.  I also get up to 30% off regular massages, so I think i am set as far as getting supplimentation for payment of treatments.  But having the time and the strength to actually make it to the appointments among feeling like crap, working, grad school, babysitting a couuple times a week, and finding time to eat, sleep, and shower, I have little time for anything else in my life. 

Well, I can only wait and see from this point.  My appointment is 8am tomorrow morning and I am anxious and a bit nervous.  I will be sure to report back to you all to let you know my experience and if I am going to continue with treatment or not.

Posted 11/16/2008 8:43 PM (GMT 0)

Well, Friday seemed to go well.  I got a wonderful fibro-appropriate massage of the head, neck and shoulders and learned some really great stretches for that area.  Unfortunately, she is not a PT who specializes in TMJ.  I am going to continue with her until I find someone else who is even more specific.

Thanks everyone!

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