It would be true to say, fibromyalgia is very responsive to deep relaxation of the body, this can be most easily achieved with the subject treated when the ‘dive reflex; is being activated.
Condition:
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome associated with widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, poor sleep, and heightened sensitivity to touch. Although its exact cause is unclear, many sufferers appear to remain in a state of persistent autonomic imbalance, characterised by sympathetic nervous system over-activation.
Symptoms often occur alongside other features such as hypermobility, disturbed sleep, and a history of significant emotional stress or trauma. Onset may follow illness, surgery, or physical trauma such as road traffic accidents. These events may contribute to a prolonged physiological stress response.
The tissues involved frequently include smooth muscle and connective tissue systems, which are strongly influenced by sympathetic nervous system activity and respond to ongoing physiological stress.
From a therapeutic perspective, the focus is therefore on helping the individual reduce sympathetic dominance and restore parasympathetic regulation. Approaches that promote deep relaxation may allow the autonomic system to reset. In some individuals, techniques that stimulate the mammalian dive reflexcan produce rapid systemic relaxation, sometimes accompanied by a strong need for restorative sleep, suggesting a shift toward parasympathetic recovery
