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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.

Muscle knots that doesn’t go away?

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Chesapeake, VA

I have muscle knots on my upper back that does not go away even after hours of massages and hot compress. It’s gotten worse over the years and not sure what else to do. Is this FM symptom?

November 3, 2022
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Answer Summary

Members strongly affirmed that persistent muscle knots in the upper back and shoulders are a common fibromyalgia symptom, often tied to... Read more

Members strongly affirmed that persistent muscle knots in the upper back and shoulders are a common fibromyalgia symptom, often tied to stress, trauma, and chronic muscle tension that doesn't fully respond to traditional massage or heat. Several members shared practical relief strategies, including lying on tennis balls or using acupressure mats, holding stretches for 90 seconds to encourage muscle release, applying topical treatments like Tiger Balm or Salonpas, and taking medications such as Tizanidine or Vitamin D3, though some cautioned that too much massage can cause muscles to tighten further. A recurring theme was the emotional toll of living with constant tension and hypervigilance, with many members expressing empathy around how childhood trauma, weight changes, and stress can leave the body locked in fight-or-flight mode, making true relaxation feel nearly impossible.

A MyFibroTeam Member

I’ve found that it’s possible for your muscles to rebound from too much massage and tighten up even more. Addressing a knot and moving on is sometimes better. Stretching an area that is tight and holding it steady for about 90 seconds can cause a muscle to release. After letting it rest you can try the stretch and hold again. I’ve also found that sometimes just lightly placing my fingers onto a tight muscle and holding it there will be enough to stimulate release.

Good luck.

November 3, 2022 (edited)
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes it's fibro knots
Very painful

November 4, 2022
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes, I felt like I was drunk all the time I was taking it. When I stopped I discovered that I had spilled coffee all over the place. It hadn't really helped.

November 4, 2022
A MyFibroTeam Member

I get those too. Sometimes Tiger Balm patches warm or cold help a lot. Menthol too. But yes, it's unbearable the pain. It does help too sometimes to hold a pose to stretch the knot, even when it's painful, and release, and repeat until the muscle relaxes. For me, it doesn't last too long in relaxation mode, it's sad how I got used to just being tense and hyperalert all the time. Tramadol used to help, but it's a very tricky drug so I would not recommend it .

November 4, 2022

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