Why a massage chair can provide relief from fibromyalgia

Anyone living with fibromyalgia knows how complex the symptoms are. Pain, muscle tension, fatigue, and an overstimulated nervous system alternate and affect daily functioning. Many people therefore seek ways to soothe their bodies and improve their quality of life. Gentle massage is often found to be supportive in this process.

A massage chair isn't a medical treatment and isn't a cure-all. Yet, many people with fibromyalgia find that regular, gentle massage helps them better manage their symptoms—especially when relaxation and stress reduction are key .

Massage and Fibromyalgia: What Does Research Say?

Massage has long been investigated as an additional support for fibromyalgia. A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis , published in PLOS ONE (2014) , concludes that massage can help reduce pain, anxiety and depressive feelings , especially when practiced regularly over a longer period of time.

A systematic review published in Pain Research and Treatment (2014) concludes that massage therapy for fibromyalgia can have a positive effect on pain perception and mental health issues, especially when the massage is performed gently and consistently. PubMed publications also indicate that relaxation-oriented massage can help calm the nervous system, which is particularly relevant for fibromyalgia.

Although the scientific evidence mainly relates to manual massage, the operating principles are closely related to what a quality massage chair does: controlled, repeatable movements that invite the body to release tension.

Gentle massage: more important than deep pressure

With fibromyalgia, the body is often extra sensitive to stimuli. Deep, intense massage can therefore sometimes be counterproductive. What many people do find pleasant is a gentle, rhythmic massage that is supportive rather than overwhelming.

A massage chair allows you to control the intensity . This means you can choose light pressure, gentle movements, and short sessions, tailored to how your body feels that day. This control is essential, especially on days when pain or fatigue are more prevalent.

Better blood circulation and less muscle tension

Massage stimulates blood circulation in muscles and connective tissue. Improved circulation ensures that oxygen and nutrients are delivered more efficiently and that waste products are removed more easily. This can help reduce stiffness and make the body feel more flexible.

Many users report feeling less “tight” after a massage, especially in the neck, shoulders and lower back — areas that are often extra sensitive in fibromyalgia.

Stress, cortisol and the nervous system

Stress plays a major role in fibromyalgia. Chronic stress increases the stress hormone cortisol, which can increase pain and hinder the body's recovery. Research shows that massage has a stress-reducing effect and can contribute to lower cortisol levels.

In addition, massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, the part of the nervous system responsible for rest and recovery. This allows the body to literally step back from the constant "alarm mode" that many people with fibromyalgia find themselves in.

This also explains why massage is experienced as relaxing not only physically, but also mentally .

Mental relaxation with Braintronics®

What sets Casada massage chairs apart is their integrated Braintronics® technology. This technology combines massage with specially developed audio programs that guide the brain to deep relaxation states, such as alpha and theta waves.

Scientific research shows that these brain waves are associated with relaxation, recovery, and mental calm. For people with fibromyalgia—whose nervous system is often overactive—this can be particularly valuable. By relaxing both body and mind simultaneously, a deeper form of peace is achieved than with physical massage alone.

Many users experience Braintronics® as a moment when not only the muscles but also the head comes to a standstill.

Influence on sleep and recovery

Sleep disturbances are common with fibromyalgia. While massage doesn't guarantee a perfect night's sleep, many people find that a gentle massage in the evening helps them relax more easily before bed .

Studies suggest that relaxing before bed can indirectly improve sleep quality. By reducing muscle tension and mental anxiety, the body is more likely to enter a restful state.

Relax at home, at your own pace

A key advantage of a massage chair is that relaxation is always within reach . No travel, no appointments, no social barriers. You choose the time, duration, and intensity of the massage.

For people with fibromyalgia, whose symptoms vary from day to day, this flexibility is essential. On good days, a slightly longer session can be helpful; on more challenging days, a few minutes of gentle relaxation can suffice.

A realistic conclusion

A massage chair is not a treatment and is not a substitute for medical care. However, for many people with fibromyalgia, it can be a valuable addition to their daily lives. By making pain more bearable, reducing stress, and supporting relaxation, a massage chair can contribute to greater comfort and a better quality of life .

As always, listen to your body, start slowly and choose what feels right for you.

"It didn't take away my fibromyalgia. But it did give me something back: a moment when my body isn't an opponent, but simply wants to be there."