Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign up Log in
Powered By
Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

What Are Your Thoughts On Physical Therapy And Which Modalities (water Therapy, Hands On/manual Adjustments, Electrostim) Have You Tried?

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Abingdon, MD

Several weeks ago, upon the recommendation of my physician, I sought out physical therapy to improve "quality of life". I have had constant low back/SI joint pain and rib pain which limits the expansion of my rib cage. I tried water therapy and the physical therapists performed gentle, manual "adjustments" to release muscle & myofacial tight spots as well as trying to release the SI joint and "unlock" my ribs. Kinesiotaping was tried as well, which did offer some relief and support… read more

April 7, 2016
 • 
Be the first to react

Answer Summary

Members offered thoughtful perspectives on the original poster's struggles with physical therapy for fibromyalgia, with many agreeing that... Read more

Members offered thoughtful perspectives on the original poster's struggles with physical therapy for fibromyalgia, with many agreeing that standard PT frequency can be too aggressive and suggesting reducing sessions to once weekly to allow the body proper recovery time between treatments. Several members shared that while some modalities like chiropractic care or manual therapy worsened their pain, warm water therapy and hydrotherapy proved most beneficial when kept gentle and brief, with many emphasizing the importance of finding a therapist who truly understands fibromyalgia rather than treating patients like those without chronic pain. A recurring theme was the highly personal nature of fibromyalgia treatment, the value of communicating openly with therapists about increased pain, and the need to listen to your own body's limits rather than pushing through discomfort that leads to flare-ups.

A MyFibroTeam Member

After having manual physical therapy especially early on I always had increased pain in the areas manipulated for 2-3 days before then finding the benefits. Maybe going 2/3 times a week has been just too much of an assault on your body and it hasn't been able to just relax inbetween. I wonder if it is worth a try only having physical therapy once a week, that's how I've had it and I've had small exercises/ stretches to do inbetween directed by the physio or have completed some simple hydrotherapy exercises.

Did you discuss the increased pain following with your physio? Do they have a good understanding of Fibromyalgia? What may be suitable for a 'normal' person might just be too much for us.

April 7, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Have you tried going only twice a week? I have found water therapy to be very beneficial. But it is easy to overdue! I have had chiropractic care as well. It helped very much when my S1 joint was stuck. Final thought...while PT's mean well they sometimes can be pushy. I think it's a matter of finding just how much you can tolerate and stick with that level....

April 7, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I went through occupational therapy in a warm water pool. I then graduated from working with the therapist and now have memorized the 50 min. therapy routine and try to to the warm pool one day if not two days a week. It really helps me a lot to control my pain. Yes, some days I hurt more afterwards than others, but that is usually because something more is going on with my body or I overly did something to much and too long. Best wishes….I would go back to the pool :).

April 14, 2018
A MyFibroTeam Member

It may help trying psysio maybe once a week . The chiropractor made it worse . I had 3 sessions thank you

November 9, 2017
A MyFibroTeam Member

I've done water therapy, physical therapy and also shots is my back I get no relief whats so ever.

August 28, 2016

Related content

View All

Has Anyone Tried Manual Therapy For Costochondritis?

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Dover, NJ

Has Anybody Tried Laser On Trigger Points?

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Bethpage, NY

Has Anyone Had Aquatherapy? Dose It Help With Pain?

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Kingsley, MI

Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.
Already a Member? Log in