Fibromyalgia is a pain-related condition, often accompanied by a host of other symptoms (such as fatigue, mood swings, memory loss, and a disruption of sleep patterns). This specific disorder is characterized by musculoskeletal pain, and many researchers believe that fibromyalgia directly affects the way that the brain processes pain, increasing discomfort significantly. There are many potential causes of this specific disorder, including surgery, injury, infection, and in some cases, even psychological trauma. The root cause of fibromyalgia is not always clear; some individuals will develop symptoms over time, and it will be impossible to determine what singular event triggered the onset of accumulating indicators. While fibromyalgia has been known to affect both men and women of varying ages, women are more likely to develop symptoms than men. It is also exceedingly common for those afflicted with this disorder to simultaneously suffer from conditions such as anxiety, depression, tension headaches, and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome).
Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Those who suffer from fibromyalgia may experience a host of uncomfortable and disruptive symptoms, including:
- Chronic pain in the back, neck, abdomen, or muscles
- Sharp or severe pain (short-term) in any one of the above-listed areas
- Fatigue or malaise
- Disruption of regular sleep patterns
- Gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation, diarrhea, and nausea
- Mood swings
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating
- Muscle tenderness
- Tingling sensations (pins and needles)
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold
Treatment for Fibromyalgia
Unlike many other pain-related disorders, fibromyalgia pain can be reduced by a number of completely non-invasive therapeutic methods, including biofeedback, meditation, and talk therapy. Stress relief has been known to greatly reduce the pain associated with fibromyalgia, thus we at Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches will focus on reducing anxiety in all of our patients, before developing a less conservative and more comprehensive plan of recovery. Self-care has also been shown to improve pain-related symptoms of fibromyalgia. Those suffering from related pain may find relief in increased exercise, improved diet, self-soothing techniques, and stress management. If you are suffering from the symptoms of fibromyalgia, we are here to help.
How Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches Heals Fibromyalgia
First, we will work to determine the severity of the disorder, and how intense and persistent pain is on an individual basis. If pain is mild to moderate, we will employ several of the therapeutic techniques that are known to reduce pain related to fibromyalgia. We may combine talk therapy, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), hydrotherapy, support groups, and any other number of proven methods. If therapeutic intervention remains unsuccessful, we may turn to medication – certain antidepressants, muscle relaxants, and nerve pain reducers have been effective in alleviating pain associated with this specific disorder. It is our main priority to reduce your pain as dramatically as possible with as little intervention as possible.
If you are suffering from fibromyalgia, we can help. Call (561) 434-7577 and let the caring staff at Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches get you on the path to healing.
