Fibromyalgia is a common chronic pain syndrome that affects 4% of people in the United States. This pain is typically characterized by widespread chronic pain, fatigue, and tenderness to the touch.
This syndrome affects ligaments and muscles and is usually present for many years by the time it is diagnosed by a medical professional. Fibromyalgia has been proven to be genetic, although symptoms appear most frequently after a stressful event – whether emotional, physical, or medical. Chronic pain due to health conditions like systemic lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can trigger fibromyalgia syndrome.
Even a gentle massage can be extremely painful for patients who suffer from fibromyalgia. This is because their muscles are tender to the touch. This often disrupts daily life and prevents people from retaining a high quality of life.
Symptoms often include
- Stress – mental and psychological
- Illness
- Depression
- Lack of concentration
- Headaches
- Fatigue
Treatment Options for Fibromyalgia Pain
Over-the-Counter Medications
Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications to relieve pain from fibromyalgia. Pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen may be used to help minimize muscle aches, reduce inflammation, and improve sleep.
Always check with your doctors before taking NSAIDs. If taken over a long period of time, they increase the risk of strokes, heart disease, and stomach ulcers.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants help with pain and fatigue. They also help raise the levels of naturally produced chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine. The side effects of can include nausea and weight gain.
Yoga
Taking yoga classes promotes muscle strength, incorporates meditation, and teaches different ways to relax. Individuals with fibromyalgia who take yoga classes experience a boost in their mood and less pain and fatigue.
Be sure to let your instructor know about your condition so they can adjust poses for you, if necessary.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture for pain relief is proven to help patients who have fibromyalgia. It involved pricking the skin with tiny needles, which is used to promote natural self-healing, encourages blood flow, and a change in the level of neurotransmitters in your brain.
It can be used to treat a variety of chronic pain conditions. Always be sure your acupuncturist is licensed to decrease any risks or side effects.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is used to improve your range of motion and strengthen muscles. Therapists design a specific program to help manage specific pain conditions in order to reduce pain. Along with self-care techniques, physical therapy helps manage fatigue and pain on your own.
Exercise
Exercise is a proven way to battle tiredness and increase energy levels. Exercise increases the brain’s production of endorphins which improves sleep and reduces depression. For people with fibromyalgia, activities like walking, biking, and swimming continue to show benefits in improving health.
When fibromyalgia affects your daily life and keeps you from doing what you love, visit the Center for Pain Management. Their comprehensive and holistic approach to treating pain will help reduce your symptoms while caring for the root cause of pain. Fill out the form below to learn more.
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How Chronic Pain Affects the Central Nervous System
