Fibromyalgia Massage and Insurance

“Many patients find that weekly massages greatly help the pain and stiffness, but unfortunately insurance usually does not cover massage therapy.” [from Fibromyalgia FAQ for Patients]

It is unfortunate that we have structured health care in this country so that decisions are made based often on reimbursement rather than effectiveness. If you talk to sufferers with fibromyalgia, many of them will report that their massage therapy sessions (with an appropriately sensitive and trained practitioner) keeps them going, that it helps them to function, not miss work, and be more physically active. From a quality of life standpoint, massage therapy makes a significant difference.

In the absence of insurance reimbursement, if you have fibromyalgia and need regular massage therapy, one option is to look for newly graduated therapists who have been trained in fibromyalgia treatment (our local massage school at the college offers this as an elective). In return for weekly visits, the new therapist may be able to offer a significant discount. Also, many therapists have “off hours” where they have spots left unfilled, or spots when someone cancels and rather than letting the spot go unfilled, it may be preferable to offer a session at a discount.

I’ll add that if you have fibromyalgia and have not had massage before, PLEASE GO SLOWLY. Although some people with fibromyalgia WANT really deep work, to work out the kinks and the trigger points, this type of work may bring on a flare-up. Start with a light Swedish massage with some light myofascial unwinding work in areas that often have trouble but are currently not overly sensitive.

More details along with feedback from those with Fibromyalgia who get massage can be found at: http://www.remedyfind.com/rm-506-Massage.asp