What Is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia, a long-term or chronic pain disorder, is often associated with intense pain throughout the muscles and bones, tender spots, and overall fatigue. These symptoms are often subjective, though. Essentially, the symptoms you experience cannot be determined or measured via any regular testing in the doctor’s office. As such, there is no clear known cause to fibromyalgia. It is often misdiagnosed as another, more common disease, therefore it is often difficult to arrange treatment options for patients suffering from chronic pain.

 

Despite being so hard to diagnose, fibromyalgia is the second most common condition affecting the bones and muscles of the body. Unfortunately, despite medical advances and a greater understanding of the condition, there is no known cure. A combination of medicine, exercise, stress management, and healthier living habits can help ease pain and discomfort.

Causes of Fibromyalgia

Today’s medical professionals are unsure as to what causes fibromyalgia. Many think it is an issue with the brain and spinal cord and how they process pain signals. Some believe the condition stems from within the bones and muscles themselves.

What is known, however, are the most common risk factors associated with fibromyalgia.

 

• Sex – Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia as they age.
• Medical History – If you suffer from another painful disease, including arthritis or severe infection, then fibromyalgia is more common.
• Mental Health – If you suffer from a mental health disorder, including anxiety or depression, then fibromyalgia may occur.
• Exercise – Those who rarely exercise may develop fibromyalgia over time.
• Genetics – If anyone in your family has fibromyalgia, you may be more likely to develop the condition in your lifetime.

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

To put it plainly, the symptoms of fibromyalgia include aching and pain all over the body. The most common symptoms include:

• Muscle pain, burning or twitching
• Low pain threshold or tender points on the body
• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering important information
• Insomnia or poor sleep
• Feelings of nervousness, worry, or depression

These are only the most common symptoms. Other less common symptoms include:

• Belly pain and bloating
• Dry mouth, nose, and eyes
• Sensitivity to cold, heat, light, and sound
• Frequent urination

Fibromyalgia Treatment Options

Despite being so tough to diagnose, there are a number of treatment options available for fibromyalgia. These treatments include primarily non-invasive and non-surgical options, such as chiropractic methods, spinal decompression, and laser treatment options. Using top-of-the-line laser machines, including the MR4 and Light Force, paired with spinal decompression tables and exercise rehabilitative equipment, the pain of fibromyalgia can be eased in time.

Furthermore, regular exercise and physical therapy tend to ease the pain and discomfort. You want to partake in low-impact activities that are designed to build endurance, stretch and strengthen the muscles, and improve movement. Some good choices include yoga, tai chi, and even walking around your neighborhood.

If you suffer from constant discomfort and pain, contact Bay Area Disc Centers for a fibromyalgia diagnosis and treatment options. You can schedule an appointment by calling 408-866-0300.