Fibromyalgia

Good Morning! This is The Field Guide to Back and Neck Pain, the newsletter to stay up to date on treatments and symptoms of back pain, neck pain and other chronic pain conditions. Welcome to all new readers! To those that have been here before, thank you, it’s so good to see you again.

Here is what you can expect from today’s edition:

• Fibromyalgia explained

• News: Why do you get sleepy after Thanksgiving dinner? The real answer may not be what you’re expecting.

Fibromyalgia explained

Fibromyalgia is a chronic medical condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, tenderness, and fatigue. It is considered a syndrome because it involves a constellation of symptoms that tend to occur together.

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not well understood, and it is believed to involve a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Diagnosis is typically based on a combination of clinical symptoms, physical examination, and the exclusion of other medical conditions with similar symptoms.

Let’s review some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia:

Widespread Pain: Individuals with fibromyalgia often experience pain in various parts of their body, including the neck, shoulders, back, hips, and legs. This pain can be described as a constant, dull ache and is often accompanied by tender points on the body, which are specific areas that are more sensitive to pressure.

Fatigue: People with fibromyalgia often complain of overwhelming fatigue, even after a good night's sleep. This fatigue can interfere with daily activities and contribute to a sense of malaise.

Sleep Disturbances: Many individuals with fibromyalgia have sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, or waking up feeling unrefreshed. These sleep problems can exacerbate the fatigue and pain associated with the condition.

Cognitive Symptoms: Sometimes referred to as "fibro fog," individuals with fibromyalgia may experience cognitive difficulties such as memory problems, trouble concentrating, and a sense of mental cloudiness.

Other Symptoms: Fibromyalgia can also be associated with a variety of other symptoms, including headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, and anxiety.

Keep reading to learn about the treatments for Fibromyalgia!

Laugh through the pain…

Fibromyalgia Explained

There is no known cure for fibromyalgia, but treatment approaches aim to manage and alleviate the symptoms.

Let’s review some of the most common treatment for Fibromyalgia:

• Medications:

  • Pain Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may provide some relief. Prescription medications, such as tramadol or certain types of antidepressants, can be prescribed to manage pain.

  • Antidepressants: Some antidepressant medications, particularly those in the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) class (e.g., duloxetine) or the tricyclic antidepressant class (e.g., amitriptyline), have been found to help with pain and sleep disturbances in fibromyalgia.

  • Nerve Pain Medications: Certain nerve pain medications, such as pregabalin and gabapentin, can help reduce pain and improve sleep in some individuals with fibromyalgia.

• Injections: Trigger point injections may be considered to help treat pain at the common tender points often experienced with fibromyalgia throughout the neck, back, arms and legs. Learn more about Trigger Point Injections HERE

• Exercise: Regular, low-impact aerobic exercise can help improve symptoms in people with fibromyalgia. Activities like walking, swimming, or cycling can be effective. It's important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise.

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help individuals with fibromyalgia develop coping strategies to manage pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. It can also address any psychological factors, such as depression or anxiety, that may be present.

• Dietary and Lifestyle Changes: Some individuals find relief by making dietary changes, such as reducing the intake of caffeine, alcohol, and certain processed foods. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular physical activity is also important.

• Alternative Therapies: Some people with fibromyalgia may explore complementary and alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, or massage, to alleviate pain and improve well-being. These therapies should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

• Support and Education: Joining a support group for fibromyalgia can provide valuable emotional support and information sharing. Education about the condition and its management can empower individuals to better cope with their symptoms.

Treatment for fibromyalgia is often individualized, as what works for one person may not work for another. It's essential for individuals with fibromyalgia to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and to make adjustments as necessary to optimize their quality of life.

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Resources

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About the Author

Les is an invaluable member of the team! He is the Lead Writer for the Field Guide to Back and Neck Pain newsletter. However, Les Payne is just a Pen Name to protect the identity of our expert Lead Writer who is an actively practicing, board-certified expert in the treatment and prevention of back and neck pain as well as other acute and chronic pain conditions. He has years of experience in this field and has treated over 15,000 patients with pain of all kinds!

Disclaimer: This publication is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this publication or website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. No provider-patient relationship is created by this publication or web site or its use. Neither the administrator nor its employees, nor any contributor to this publication or web site, makes any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use.