Fibromyalgia or FMS is a complicated and complex syndrome that affects between 2 to 4% of the population. FMS affects hundreds of thousands of people each year. The pain and discomfort can be slight to severe. The causes of fibromyalgia are numerous, but some of the more common treatments may involved chiropractic care, biofeedback and massage chair therapy.

The severe pain associated with fibromyalgia can be so debilitating that it can cause adults to miss work and to not participate in many activities. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the pain of the syndrome, but as of yet there is not a known cure. Many health practitioners use massage chairs to help to reduce the pain associated with fibromyalgia.

Doctors and researchers have not identified the causative factor of FMS. However, studies have shown that women are affected by a factor of 20 times more than men-especially women between the ages of 20 and 60 years old. Anyone that may suffer from fibromyalgia syndrome should seek the advice of their medical provider.

The medical profession has a few theories about the causes of FMS. Research studies have shown that many of the symptoms happen just after patients have had the flu or after suffering from a traumatic physical event. In both cases the body's defense mechanisms are weakened either from physical or emotional strain leaving the body vulnerable.

One theory is central sensitization. In this theory, researchers hypothesize that people with FMS have a lower threshold for pain. This is believed to stem from an increased sensitivity in the brain to pain signals. It is believed that repeated nerve stimulation causes the brain to change with an abnormal increase in the level of neurotransmitters. In other words, the pain signals cause some memory in the brain, making them more sensitive causing them to overreact to the stimuli.

There are a multitude of theories in this complex area and the cure has not yet been found. Therefore sufferers of fibromyalgia can only find ways to reduce the pain. Some of the more common remedies are biofeedback, chiropractic care and massage therapy.

Biofeedback is a technique used to relax the mind and the body with electronics. Various sensors are used to monitor your breathing, heart rate, sweat production, temperature of the body and muscle tension. This form of treatment has been known to help with chronic pain conditions.

Chiropractic care assists to reduce pain and helps to increase mobility of the fibromyalgia patient. Chiropractors target relief for neck pain, shoulder pain, back pain, headaches, and muscular pain. Chiropractors apply pressure to the trigger points of the body along with stretching, gentle pressure and pressing.

Massage therapy helps to improve circulation and stimulate metabolism. Massage therapy works on the superficial layers of the muscle and is used in combination with joint movements. By applying pressure with friction, stroking and kneading of the muscles blood flow is directed back to the heart. Massage therapy can be delivered by a massage therapist or a massage chair.

Massage chairs are a very affordable alternative to using a masseuse. If reliable and consistent pain relief is needed, then massage chairs are perfect for this role. They offer in home convenience and are available when you need relief.

If you suffer from acute or chronic pain, check with your health care provider to see what options are available for you. Obtaining periodic or consistent relief is important to help you through the day. You may find massage chairs provide you the relaxation and pain relief that you are seeking.