What is fibromyalgia?

What is fibromyalgia?

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Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain that covers half of the body (right or left half, upper or lower half) and has lasted for more than three months.

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Diagnosing fibromyalgia can be challenging because there are no specific laboratory tests or imaging studies that can definitively confirm the condition. Diagnosis is typically based on a thorough assessment of symptoms, a physical examination, and the exclusion of other conditions with similar symptoms.

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Common symptoms of fibromyalgia

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Common symptoms of fibromyalgia can vary from person to person, but the hallmark symptoms include:

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1. Widespread pain: The primary symptom of fibromyalgia is chronic, widespread pain that affects multiple areas of the body. Pain is usually described as muscular in origin and is predominantly reported in the upper back, head, neck, chest and low back. Tenderness (sensitivity to touch) is another hallmark of fibromyalgia pain. 
2. Fatigue: Profound fatigue is a common symptom of fibromyalgia. Individuals who suffer with this condition often experience persistent, unexplained fatigue, even after getting sufficient rest or sleep.
3. Sleep disturbances: Many individuals with fibromyalgia have difficulties sleeping, which can include insomnia, restless legs syndrome (uncontrollable urge to move your legs),  and waking up feeling unrefreshed. Sleep disturbances can contribute to increased pain and fatigue.
4. Fibro fog: It is a cognitive dysfunction associated with fibromyalgia, wherein a patient experiences decline in cognitive function, memory and mental alertness. This commonly occurs to a person who is very stressed and fatigued.
5. Morning stiffness: The muscles and joints feeI stiff especially in the morning upon waking up, because the person has been in the same position for a prolonged period of time. 
6. Headaches: Recurrent tension headaches or migraines are common in individuals with fibromyalgia. These headaches can be severe and debilitating.
7. Mood disorders: Depression, anxiety, and mood swings are frequently associated with fibromyalgia. The chronic pain and other symptoms can significantly impact a person's emotional well-being.

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Individuals with fibromyalgia have a higher incidence of tendonitis (inflamed tendon), irritable bowel, temporal and mandibular joint dysfunction (jaw joints and muscles dysfunction), depression and memory problems. Another common report is significant fluctuation of symptoms. Some days an individual may be pain-free, whereas other days the pain is markedly increased.

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It's important to note that fibromyalgia symptoms can vary in severity and may fluctuate over time. If you suspect you may have fibromyalgia, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

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What are the causes and risk factors of fibromyalgia?

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The exact cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown, but several risk factors are believed to contribute to its development:

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1. Abnormal pain processing: People with fibromyalgia have a heightened sensitivity to pain, meaning they experience pain more intensely than others. This is thought to result from abnormal processing of pain signals in the central nervous system.
2. Genetic predisposition: There appears to be a genetic component to fibromyalgia, as it tends to run in families. Certain genetic variations may increase a person's susceptibility to developing the condition.
3. Age: Anyone can be diagnosed with fibromyalgia, but it is most commonly diagnosed in adults ages 20 years old and older. Prevalence increases with age.
4. Gender: Women are more likely to be affected than men. Since women produce a hormone called estrogen, which makes the female body more sensitive to pain.
5. Stress: Fibromyalgia is not caused by physical, emotional and environmental stress, but it is aggravated by them. 

• Environmental stresses include weather changes, cold, dampness, fog, rain and even fluorescent lights.
• Physical stresses include repetitive activities, such as typing, playing piano, prolonged periods of sitting and/or standing and working rotating shifts.
• Emotional stresses are any normal life stresses.

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How can physical therapy help? 

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Physical therapy can be beneficial in managing fibromyalgia symptoms and improving overall quality of life. Here are some ways in which physical therapy can help individuals with fibromyalgia:

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1. Pain management: Physical therapists can utilize various exercise techniques and electrotherapeutic modalities to help reduce pain associated with fibromyalgia. These may include heat and cold therapy, electrical stimulation, laser and ultrasound, to provide pain relief.
2. Aerobic exercises: It is one of the most important physical therapy interventions in reducing fibromyalgia symptoms and improving exercise capacity. As it is proven to improve psychological symptoms associated with depression, cognitive decline and sleep disturbances, increasing respiratory capacity which minimizes chronic pain and fatigue.
3. Resistance exercises: Moderate to high intensity resistance exercises helps to improve muscle strength, function, reduce pain and sensitivity in patients with fibromyalgia.
4. Stretching exercises: This is usually prescribed by the physical therapist to improve range of motion. It also helps ease muscle pain and stiffness.
5. Manual therapy techniques: Physical therapists utilize different manual therapy techniques on patients with fibromyalgia such as; myofascial release and mobilization techniques to help modulate the pain, sleep and quality of life.
6. Posture and body mechanics education: Physical therapists can provide guidance on maintaining proper posture and body mechanics during daily activities. Correcting posture and body mechanics can help reduce strain on the muscles and joints, potentially alleviating pain and discomfort.
7. Sleep hygiene and relaxation techniques: Physical therapists can provide education on sleep hygiene, which includes strategies to improve sleep quality and quantity. They can also teach relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness, to help individuals with fibromyalgia manage stress, reduce muscle tension, and improve sleep.
8. Energy conservation strategies: Individuals with fibromyalgia often experience fatigue and limited energy levels. Physical therapists can teach energy conservation techniques, such as pacing activities and using ergonomic principles, to help individuals optimize their energy levels and prevent overexertion.
9. Education and self-management: Physical therapists can provide education on fibromyalgia, including information about the condition, symptom management strategies, and lifestyle modifications. They can also empower individuals to take an active role in self-managing their condition through education and guidance.

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It's important to consult with a physical therapist who is knowledgeable and experienced in  treating individuals with fibromyalgia. They can tailor the treatment plan to address the specific needs and goals of each individual. Collaborating with a healthcare team that may include doctors, psychologists, and occupational therapists can provide a comprehensive approach to managing fibromyalgia.

Trust PeteHealth for fibromyalgia treatment

Looking for a physical therapist to help you manage and treat fibromyalgia? PeteHealth is the trusted physical therapy solution that you can access on your schedule, bringing you the care you need wherever you need it – including your home or office. Our licensed physical therapists are at the top of their profession, and we accept most insurance carriers.

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Finally – the all-in-one, professional, convenient approach to physical therapy that you deserve with PeteHealth.

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