Fibromyalgia

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia typically causes continual musculoskeletal pain, tenderness, and hypersensitivity, although there is no identifiable tissue damage. The pain can vary in its nature and intensity, but most patients describe it as dull and aching.

The reason why some people develop fibromyalgia isn't clear, but possibilities include widespread tissue inflammation and oversensitivity in your body's nervous system. There could be links to autoimmune dysfunction, and your genes might play a part.

What other symptoms does fibromyalgia cause?

In addition to the ever-present pain, fibromyalgia can cause chronic fatigue, headaches, problems sleeping, and depression. Fibro fog describes the cognitive impairments typical of fibromyalgia — trouble focusing your mind and memory problems.

When you have fibromyalgia, you have a higher risk of being affected by other chronic conditions, including:

• Arthritis
• IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)
• Endometriosis
• Autoimmune disorders
• Restless legs syndrome
• Sleep apnea

Engaging in activities outside your normal routine can cause flare-ups of pain. The pain is also pressure-sensitive, making it difficult to get comfortable in any position.

How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?

There's no conclusive laboratory test for fibromyalgia, so diagnosing the condition can be a challenge. The Performance Pain and Sports Medicine team begins by ruling out other potential causes for your symptoms.

That could involve having a blood workup and undergoing diagnostic imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasound, a CT scan, or an MRI scan.

One test that does give a reliable indication of fibromyalgia is a pressure point test. People who have fibromyalgia tend to have specific points on their bodies that cause intense, long-lasting pain if put under pressure. These points are on your:

• Neck
• Back
• Chest
• Elbows
• Hips
• Buttocks
• Knees

If you don't have fibromyalgia, then finger pressure on these points won't be uncomfortable. However, if you do have fibromyalgia, you'll be very sensitive to most of the pressure points.

How is fibromyalgia treated?

While there's no cure for fibromyalgia, the Performance Pain and Sports Medicine team provides a comprehensive array of treatments to help you manage your pain and improve your quality of life.

Your personalized treatment program might include:

• Physical therapy
• Prescription pain relief
• Antidepressants
• Anti-seizure medications
• Occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling
• Trigger point injections containing anesthetic and steroids

There are ways you can help yourself when managing fibromyalgia. A nutritious, well-balanced diet improves your general health and reduces strain on your body. Making changes like stopping smoking and cutting down your alcohol consumption are also important.

Stress makes fibromyalgia worse, so learning how to reduce your stress levels can be very helpful. Exercise is also vital — you might not feel like being active when you have fibromyalgia, so choose gentle exercise like yoga.

For effective relief of fibromyalgia symptoms, call Performance Pain and Sports Medicine today. The friendly and accommodating staff prides itself on its professional and comfortable office setting.