Massage and other touch therapies including myofascial release and connective tissue massage have been found to reduce pain, anxiety and stiffness associated with fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by chronic pain, joint rigidity, intense fatigue, sleep disturbances, headaches, anxiety and often depression. Fibromyalgia occurs more often in women than in men, and the interruptions in quality of life seem more dramatic for younger patients with fibromyalgia than in older patients.

A 2011 study published in the journal Rheumatology International, showed that aerobic exercise combined with neuromuscular treatment of eighteen specific trigger points significantly improved quality of life, pain control, range of motion, ability to sleep and mobility in the test group.