Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. Researchers believe that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain and spinal cord process painful and nonpainful signals.
Chronic pain and fibromyalgia can be frustrating and isolating to deal with. We know that many patients feel dismissed or go un-diagnosed for years.
Your pain is real, and there are things we can do to help.
You may experience constant symptoms or symptoms may seem to come and go during “flare ups”
Common symptoms include:
- Muscle pain or tenderness
- Fatigue
- Face and jaw pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Digestive problems, including diarrhea and constipation
- Bladder control issues
- Memory problems (sometimes called “brain fog”)
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia and other sleep disorders
Pain is complicated and not well understood by current literature. This can be frustrating for patients who often feel like they bounce around to different doctors without a comprehensive treatment plan. Current research supports a multidisciplinary approach to chronic pain/fibromyalgia. While this will look different for every individual, common treatments include:
- Psychological treatments: A mental health professional will help you identify ways to maintain a healthy self-image. They’ll suggest strategies to manage symptoms that affect your mental and emotional health.
- Pharmacological treatment: Taking medicine that has been prescribed by a doctor to manage your symptoms.
- PT. This is us! We can work with you to design an exercise routine that works for you and your body. Many patients feel better with the ‘right’ amount of exercise. We will listen to you and work with you to design a program that specifically addresses your issues.
If you are ready to start addressing your chronic symptoms, we are ready to help. Call the office today to set up an appointment
