Understanding Fibromyalgia – What It Is and How Physiotherapy Can Help

Hi, I’m Kat – physiotherapist and co-founder of Lake Therapy. Over the years, I’ve supported many clients through the challenges of fibromyalgia. My mother is diagnosed with fibromyalgia so I know how overwhelming it can be when daily life is impacted by pain, fatigue, and stiffness. Physiotherapy for fibromyalgia can make a real difference—helping you manage symptoms, improve mobility, and feel more in control of your wellbeing.

What Is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes widespread pain, often alongside poor sleep, fatigue, and other symptoms. The name comes from:

• Fibro – fibrous tissue

• Myo – muscle

• Algia – pain

With fibromyalgia, pain is usually felt on both sides of the body, above and below the waist. This isn’t just a sore spot or a muscle strain—it’s a whole-body experience that can be both physically and emotionally draining.

Why Is Fibromyalgia Hard to Diagnose?

There’s no single test for fibromyalgia. Diagnosis often involves a discussion of your symptoms, your medical history, and an examination to check for tender points. These points can be found:

• Behind the head

• Between the shoulder blades

• On top of the shoulders

• At the sides of the neck

• On the upper chest

• At the outer elbows

• Around the hips and inner knees

If tenderness is found in at least 11 of these areas, and other conditions are ruled out, fibromyalgia is suspected.

Why Physiotherapy for Fibromyalgia Can Help

The main cause of fibromyalgia pain is thought to be central sensitisation, where the brain and nervous system become more sensitive to pain signals. This means your body is amplifying pain—not that you’re weak or “overreacting.” Physiotherapy for fibromyalgia can address this by reducing muscle tension, improving posture, and encouraging movement patterns that are less likely to trigger pain.

Treatment Options for Managing Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Because fibromyalgia affects everyone differently, the most effective approach often combines several strategies.

1. Medication Support

Some people find relief through certain medications such as antidepressants, muscle relaxants, or anti-seizure drugs. These should be discussed with your GP.

2. Physiotherapy for Fibromyalgia

At Lake Therapy, our approach to physiotherapy for fibromyalgia includes:

• Gentle mobility and stretching routines

• Low-impact exercise programmes

• Manual therapy to release tension

• Education about pacing and posture

Regular, guided movement helps improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and make daily activities more manageable.

3. Education and Lifestyle Adjustments

Learning how to manage energy, break tasks into smaller steps, and practise relaxation techniques can significantly reduce flare-ups.

4. Support Networks

Whether through friends, family, or support groups, having people who understand your experience is vital.

5. Nutrition and Lifestyle

Eating balanced meals and reducing caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods can help limit symptom triggers.

6. Complementary Therapies

Massage, acupuncture, and mindfulness-based techniques can also be beneficial for some individuals.

Our Holistic Approach at Lake Therapy

Physiotherapy for fibromyalgia is not just about exercises—it’s about understanding you as a whole person. At Lake Therapy, we take time to:

• Listen to your story without judgement

• Tailor treatments to your symptoms and energy levels

• Use gentle, hands-on therapy to release muscle tightness

• Provide tools and strategies you can use at home

Our goal is steady, sustainable improvement—not quick fixes that push you beyond your limits.

Ready to Explore Physiotherapy for Fibromyalgia?

If you’ve been struggling with ongoing pain, poor sleep, or fatigue, you don’t have to manage it alone. We’d be happy to help you find a way forward.

You can book your Initial Consultation for a full assessment and personalised plan, or schedule a free Discovery Call to talk things through first.

Let’s take each step together, at your pace.

Warmly,
Kat