Fibromyalgia

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in specific areas of the body. It often affects sleep, memory, and mood. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.

Mechanism of Injury:

Fibromyalgia does not have a clear mechanism of injury as it is not typically caused by physical trauma. However, certain factors can contribute to the development or worsening of symptoms:

Genetics: A genetic predisposition may play a role, as fibromyalgia often runs in families.
Infections: Some illnesses can trigger or exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms.
Physical or Emotional Trauma: Stressful or traumatic events, such as accidents or significant psychological stress, may trigger the onset of fibromyalgia.
Central Sensitisation: Fibromyalgia is believed to be linked to how the brain processes pain signals. Central sensitization involves an increased sensitivity to pain due to changes in the central nervous system, leading to an amplified response to pain stimuli.

Symptoms

Widespread Pain: Persistent pain affecting multiple areas of the body, often described as a constant dull ache, typically lasting for more than three months.
Tender Points: Specific points on the body, such as the neck, shoulders, back, hips, and knees, that are particularly sensitive to pressure.
Fatigue: Constant tiredness that is not relieved by rest or sleep. Many patients wake up feeling unrefreshed.
Cognitive Difficulties: Commonly referred to as "fibro fog," this includes issues with memory, concentration, and mental clarity.
Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless sleep, which exacerbates other symptoms.
Stiffness: Especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Headaches: Frequent tension headaches or migraines.
Mood Disorders: Depression and anxiety are common among those with fibromyalgia.
Digestive Issues: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are often associated with fibromyalgia.
Sensitivity to Stimuli: Increased sensitivity to light, noise, temperature, and even touch.

Treatment

Medication:

Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help reduce pain. Prescription medications, including certain antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline) and anticonvulsants (e.g., pregabalin), may be prescribed to reduce pain and improve sleep.
Muscle Relaxants: Sometimes prescribed to help relieve muscle stiffness and pain.
Physical Therapy:
Exercise: A gentle, gradual exercise program focusing on low-impact aerobic activity, stretching, and strengthening can help manage symptoms.
Massage Therapy: Used to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce pain.
Hydrotherapy: Warm water exercises and baths can soothe muscles and ease pain.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and improving sleep environment to enhance rest quality.
Dietary Changes: A balanced diet, rich in nutrients and low in inflammatory foods, can help manage symptoms.
Pacing Activities: Learning to pace activities and avoid overexertion to prevent symptom flare-ups.

In-Clinic Treatments:

Dry Needling: Targeting tender points to relieve muscle tension and reduce pain.
Ultrasound Therapy: To reduce muscle pain and promote relaxation.
Cupping: Used to improve circulation and relieve muscle tension.
Hot Stone Therapy: Soothing heat application to reduce muscle stiffness and discomfort.
Rehabilitation Plan: Developing a tailored plan that includes exercise, stress management, and gradual activity resumption to improve function and quality of life.