Supportive Treatment for Chronic Pain and Fatigue
A Compassionate Approach to Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a complex, long-term condition that causes widespread pain, extreme tiredness, and muscle stiffness. It can be unpredictable, frustrating, and deeply isolating. Many people struggle for years to find a treatment that actually helps without causing a “flare-up.”
At The Whiteley Physiotherapy Centre, we understand the profound impact Fibromyalgia has on your daily life. Our physiotherapists take a patient, evidence-based approach to help you manage your symptoms and regain confidence in your body. We will not push you beyond what you can manage, and we will never make promises we cannot keep. We are here to work with you, at your pace.
Understanding Fibromyalgia
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain and a heightened sensitivity to touch and pressure. It is currently understood as a “central sensitisation” issue—essentially, the central nervous system becomes stuck in a high-alert state, amplifying pain signals that the brain receives.
Common Symptoms
- Widespread Pain: A constant dull ache affecting multiple areas of the body.
- Severe Fatigue: Exhaustion that often doesn’t improve with rest or a full night’s sleep.
- “Fibro Fog”: Cognitive difficulties that affect your concentration, memory, and mental clarity.
- Physical Sensitivity: Heightened sensitivity to temperature, light, noise, or firm touch.
- Secondary Symptoms: Morning stiffness, tension headaches, and irritable bowel symptoms (IBS).
What Causes It?
While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, it often involves a combination of genetic factors and physical or emotional trauma. It most commonly develops in women between the ages of 30 and 50, but it can affect anyone at any time.
How We Manage Fibromyalgia
- Graded Exercise: Movement is medicine for Fibromyalgia, but it must be introduced with extreme care. We use a “graded” approach—starting with very gentle, manageable activity and building up in tiny increments. This helps desensitise the nervous system and boost energy without triggering a crash.
- Hydrotherapy: Our on-site heated pool is often the preferred starting point for our Fibromyalgia patients. The warmth relaxes the muscles while the buoyancy of the water allows for weightless, pain-free movement.
- Manual Therapy: We use very gentle hands-on techniques to reduce muscle tension and improve mobility. We always adapt our pressure to your specific sensitivity on the day.
- Acupuncture: Some patients find significant relief from pain and improved sleep quality through medical acupuncture, which can be integrated into your sessions.
- Pacing & Self-Management: We teach you the art of “pacing”—learning how to balance activity with rest to avoid the “boom and bust” cycle that often leads to flares.
Your First Appointment
At The Whiteley Physiotherapy Centre, we know that talking about chronic pain can be exhausting. Your first session is a conversation first, and a physical assessment second.
Practicalities for your visit:
- A Gentle 45-Minute Assessment: Your physiotherapist will listen carefully to your history. We want to understand your “good days” and your “bad days” so we can build a plan that works for both.
- What to wear: Please wear soft, comfortable clothing that doesn’t feel restrictive.
- What to bring: It is very helpful to bring a list of your current medications and any notes on what typically triggers a flare-up for you.
- A Comfortable Pace: We will only carry out a physical assessment within your comfort zone. You will not be asked to do anything that feels excessive or overwhelming.
Honesty in Recovery
We believe in realistic expectations. Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition, and there is rarely a “quick fix” that makes it disappear entirely.
Clinical Note: Recovery isn’t a straight line; there will be setbacks and flares along the way.
Our goal is to reduce the frequency and intensity of those flares while slowly expanding what you are physically able to do. Most patients begin to feel a shift in their energy and pain levels after eight to twelve weeks of consistent, gentle management. We are here to provide the steady, expert support you need to stop your symptoms from controlling your life.
Your Treatment Team
- Felicia Fetcu – Physiotherapist and hydrotherapy physiotherapist (CSP: 106027 | HCPC: PH117618)
- Diane Shaw – Physiotherapist, acupuncture, and hydrotherapy (CSP: 49658 | HCPC: PH41958)
- Bethany Vance – Physiotherapist (CSP: 127691 | HCPC: PH146896)
- Simona Jacob – Physiotherapist (CSP: 111102 | HCPC: PH124185)
Pricing and Appointment
-
Initial Assessment £79 / 45 minutes
-
Follow-Up Session £59 / 30 minutes
-
Block Booking £319 for 6 sessions
We are recognised by Bupa, AXA PPP, Aviva, WPA, Cigna, and Vitality.
To book, call 01489 569888 or email info@thewhiteleyphysiocentre.co.uk.
Conveniently Located in Whiteley
Our clinic is at Gull Coppice, Yew Tree Drive, Whiteley, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 7LS. We serve patients from Whiteley, Fareham, Segensworth, Swanwick, Titchfield, Sarisbury, and Burridge.
Phone: 01489 569888
Email: info@thewhiteleyphysiocentre.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
Can physiotherapy cure fibromyalgia?
Physiotherapy cannot cure fibromyalgia, but it can help you manage your symptoms effectively. Research shows that graded exercise, education, and self-management strategies can reduce pain, improve function, and improve quality of life.
Will exercise make my fibromyalgia worse?
It can feel that way at first, which is why a graded approach is essential. Starting gently and building up slowly allows your body to adapt without triggering a flare-up. Over time, regular exercise typically reduces pain and fatigue.
Is hydrotherapy good for fibromyalgia?
Research supports hydrotherapy as a beneficial treatment for fibromyalgia. The warm water relaxes muscles, reduces pain, and makes exercise more comfortable. Our on-site pool is heated to a therapeutic temperature.
How often should I attend?
This depends on your symptoms and goals. Some patients attend weekly, while others prefer fortnightly sessions. Your physiotherapist will recommend a frequency that works for you.
Can acupuncture help with fibromyalgia?
Some patients find acupuncture helpful for managing pain and improving sleep. It can be used alongside other treatments as part of your management plan.
What is pacing?
Pacing is a strategy for managing activity levels to avoid the cycle of overdoing it on good days and crashing afterwards. Your physiotherapist can help you develop a sustainable pacing plan.
Do I need a diagnosis before starting treatment?
A formal diagnosis from your GP or rheumatologist is helpful but not essential. If you are experiencing widespread pain and fatigue, we can assess you and begin treatment while further investigations continue.
Will you understand my condition?
Yes. Our team has experience working with patients who have fibromyalgia. We understand the challenges of living with chronic pain and will work at your pace.
Is fibromyalgia treatment covered by insurance?
Physiotherapy for fibromyalgia is typically covered by major health insurers. We are recognised by Bupa, AXA PPP, Aviva, WPA, Cigna, and Vitality.
How do I book?
Ready to Get Started?
Living with fibromyalgia and looking for support? Call 01489 569888 to book your assessment and start treatment.